U.S. Pauses ESTA Implementation for Romania Amid Visa Waiver Program Re-evaluation

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has paused implementing the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for Romanian citizens. This decision is part of a broader reevaluation of Romania’s eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to ensure adherence to the program’s stringent security requirements.

Official Notice from the Homeland Department

The official notice from DHS states:

“The U.S. Government is reviewing the recent designation of Romania into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to ensure adherence to VWP’s stringent security requirements. During this review, the United States is pausing the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) implementation for Romanian citizens. This pause will remain in effect until the United States completes its review. Romanians seeking to travel to the United States for short-term business or tourism purposes should continue to apply for the appropriate nonimmigrant (“B”) visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.”

Background: Visa Waiver Program

Romania was formally designated as the 43rd country to join the VWP on January 10, 2025, with the program initially set to take effect around March 31, 2025. This would have allowed Romanian citizens to travel to the U.S. for business or tourism without a visa, using ESTA for up to 90 days. However, the pause indicates that the U.S. is reassessing Romania’s participation due to security concerns and internal challenges.

Romania faces significant internal challenges, including a decline in its democratic standing and allegations of electoral irregularities. These issues have led to a downgrade in The Economist’s Democracy Index, from a “flawed democracy” to a “hybrid regime”. The U.S. is scrutinizing Romania’s ability to maintain the security standards required for VWP participation, which includes enhancing cooperation on counterterrorism, law enforcement, and immigration enforcement.

Impact on U.S.-Romania Relations

The potential delay or revocation of Romania’s VWP entry could strain U.S.-Romania relations. Romania’s inclusion in the program was seen as a “historic moment” for bilateral relations, expected to enhance economic ties and investment. However, if Romania’s entry is delayed or revoked, it could undermine these gains and reflect broader concerns about Romania’s stability and security.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing dialogue between Romanian and U.S. authorities. Until further notice, Romanian citizens must continue to apply for nonimmigrant visas. The outcome of this review will have significant implications for both countries’ relations and Romania’s international standing.

The pause in ESTA implementation for Romanian citizens highlights the U.S. government’s commitment to ensuring the security and integrity of the Visa Waiver Program. As the review continues, Romania’s eligibility will be closely scrutinized, reflecting a complex interplay of security concerns, immigration policies, and democratic challenges. The stakes are high for Romania’s democratic future and economic ties with the U.S.