The United States continues to be a top global destination, offering everything from the bright lights of Times Square to the breathtaking natural wonders of the Grand Canyon. For many international travelers, entering the U.S. has become simpler and faster thanks to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—a policy that eliminates the need for a traditional visa for short-term visits.
If you’re planning a trip to the U.S. in 2025 for tourism, business, or transit, this guide covers everything you need to know about using the VWP.
Table of Contents
What Is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a U.S. government initiative that allows citizens of 43 eligible countries to enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa for:
- Tourism
- Business (e.g., meetings, conferences)
- Transit en route to another country
Instead of going through a lengthy visa application process, VWP travelers apply online for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)—a streamlined system that typically returns results in minutes.
Who Is Eligible for the VWP in 2025?
As of this year, 43 countries participate in the program, including:
- Europe: UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, Poland
- Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand
- South America: Chile
- Others: Israel, Taiwan
Check the full and updated list on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website before planning your trip.
ESTA Application: Step-by-Step
To travel under the VWP, eligible citizens must apply for an ESTA—the required travel authorization—at least 72 hours before departure.
Here’s how to apply:
- Go to the official ESTA website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Complete the application form with:
- Biographical info
- Passport details
- Contact info
- Travel itinerary (optional)
- Pay the $21 USD application fee
- Submit and await approval, typically within minutes or hours
Validity:
- ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first
- It can be used for multiple entries, each visit up to 90 days
Basic VWP Requirements
To qualify, travelers must:
Be a citizen of a participating VWP country
Have an e-passport with a scannable chip
Stay in the U.S. for 90 days or less
Visit for tourism, business, or transit—not work or study
Hold a valid round-trip or onward ticket
Apply and receive ESTA approval before departure
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overstaying your 90-day limit
Using the VWP for employment or study
Traveling without a valid ESTA
Providing incorrect information on your application
Using a passport that’s about to expire
These errors can result in denial of entry or even a ban from future U.S. travel under the VWP.
VWP vs. B1/B2 Visa
| Feature | Visa Waiver Program (VWP) | B1/B2 Tourist/Business Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application method | Online via ESTA | In-person visa interview |
| Processing time | Minutes to hours | Weeks to months |
| Valid for | 90 days per trip | Up to 10 years, 6-month stays |
| Cost | $21 | $185+ |
| Employment permitted? | No | No |
FAQs
Can I work in the U.S. under the VWP?
No. Employment is not allowed under the VWP. You must apply for a separate work visa (e.g., H-1B).
What happens if I overstay my 90 days?
Overstaying can result in deportation, ban from future entry, and loss of VWP eligibility.
Can I extend my stay under the VWP?
No. Extensions or status changes are not allowed. You must leave and re-enter (if eligible) or apply for a different visa.
