Romania Joins U.S. Visa Waiver Program

On January 10, 2025, Romania was officially designated the 43rd country to join the United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This significant milestone will allow Romanian citizens to travel to the U.S. without a visa starting March 31, 2025.

This announcement was made during a formal Washington, D.C. event attended by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Romanian Ambassador Andrei Muraru.

U.S. Ambassador to Romania, Kathleen Kavalec, described this moment as “historic,” emphasizing the strengthening of the two nations’ bilateral relationship. She stated:

With today’s announcement, it is clear that our relations are only getting stronger… I expect it will supercharge our relationship, giving a boost to our growing economic ties. 

U.S. Ambassador to Romania, Kathleen Kavalec

The inclusion in the VWP means that Romanian nationals will no longer need to go through the traditional visa application process for business or tourism visits lasting up to 90 days. Instead, they can apply online for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), streamlining the travel process and reducing associated costs and time commitments.

Ambassador Muraru highlighted that Romania is the first country in the Black Sea region to join this program, reinforcing its strategic partnership with the United States. He emphasized that this development would enhance bilateral relations, boost trade and investment, and encourage tourism between the two nations.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security commended Romania for meeting stringent security requirements necessary for VWP participation, including a visa refusal rate below 3%. Romania achieved a rate of 2.61% for fiscal year 2024, demonstrating its commitment to security and compliance with U.S. standards. U.S. officials view this designation as a reflection of the strong friendship between Romania and the United States, with both sides committed to ongoing cooperation on security matters.

The VWP facilitates easier travel, fosters economic ties, and supports efforts to combat terrorism and illegal migration through continuous information sharing. Both governments are now focused on ensuring that the benefits of the Visa Waiver Program are fully realized while maintaining robust security protocols.

This historic moment marks a significant step towards enhancing travel freedom for Romanians and strengthening their connections with the United States.