Romania Joins US Visa Waiver Program: Visa-Free Travel Begins March 31, 2025
A New Era for Romanian Travelers
In a historic step forward, Romania has officially been added to the United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP) as of January 10, 2025. This milestone means that starting March 31, 2025, Romanian citizens will be able to travel to the US without a visa for tourism or business purposes, provided their stay does not exceed 90 days.
With this decision, Romania becomes the 43rd country to join the program, a significant achievement that reflects the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Romania and the United States. Meanwhile, US nationals have already been eligible to visit Romania visa-free for similar short-term stays.
A Milestone in US-Romania Relations
Romania’s Ambassador to the United States, Andrei Muraru, described the inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program as a major diplomatic success. He emphasized that the decision demonstrates the close relationship between the two nations and Romania’s commitment to deepening its Euro-Atlantic partnerships.
“This is an important and joyous moment for Romania,” Muraru stated, highlighting how the move will not only benefit travelers but also boost investment, trade, and tourism between Romania and the US.
ESTA System to Be Updated for Romanian Travelers
To facilitate visa-free travel, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will update the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) by the end of March. Romanians will soon be able to apply for ESTA approval via the official CBP website or the mobile app available on iOS and Android. ESTA authorizations will be valid for two yearsand will allow multiple short-term entries into the US.
Travelers who already hold valid B-1/B-2 visas can continue using them, as these visas remain an alternative option for those planning longer stays or different types of travel.
Formal Announcement in Washington, D.C.
The decision was officially announced in Washington, D.C., by US Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Ambassador Andrei Muraru. This marks the culmination of years of diplomatic efforts between Romanian and American officials to meet the strict requirements of the Visa Waiver Program.
The inclusion of Romania in the program is expected to enhance business opportunities, strengthen cultural exchanges, and encourage greater mobility for Romanian citizens traveling to the United States.
As March 31 approaches, Romanian travelers are advised to stay updated on ESTA application details and travel requirements to ensure a seamless transition into this new era of visa-free access to the US.
