Emmanuel OchayiThe United States has released its updated list of countries eligible for visa-free entry under the 2025 Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The list excludes the United Kingdom, Nigeria, and all African countries, limiting visa-free access to travellers from 40 nations.
No Visa-free Entry for UK, Nigeria, and African Countries
On Monday, the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs published the list of countries approved for visa-free entry under the 2025 Visa Waiver Programme. Notably, the UK was left out, though it remains eligible under specific conditions. Additionally, no African country made the list, meaning travellers from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and others will still need a visa to visit the U.S.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe programme allows nationals from participating countries to visit the US for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. However, travellers must obtain authorisation through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before their trip.
READ ALSO: List Of Visas That Give Nigerian Passport Holders Access To More Countries
Why Some Countries Were Excluded
While the Visa Waiver Program generally remains unchanged, the exclusion of the UK and all African nations raises questions about US travel policy. The decision is based on multiple factors, including diplomatic relations, security protocols, and compliance with US border security standards.
The US Bureau of Consular Affairs stated that the eligibility of countries depends on their ability to meet security and information-sharing requirements. The program is designed to enhance border security while maintaining strong diplomatic partnerships with select nations.
Romania Joins the Visa Waiver Programme
One major change in the 2025 update is the inclusion of Romania in the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry. This marks a significant expansion for the program, highlighting Romania’s progress in meeting US security and diplomatic criteria.
The US has emphasised that countries seeking to join the program must strengthen security measures, ensure compliance with US immigration policies, and maintain low visa overstay rates.
Which Countries Qualify for Visa-free Entry?
The 2025 Visa Waiver Programme allows citizens of the following 40 countries to enter the U.S. without a visa:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Israel
- Japan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Romania
What This Means for Travellers
The exclusion of countries like the UK, Nigeria, and others means that travellers from these regions will still need to apply for a visa before visiting the U.S. The visa application process can be time-consuming, requiring interviews, documentation, and fees.
For Nigerians and other African travellers, this decision reinforces the need to plan well in advance when considering trips to the US. While the visa-free entry program benefits millions worldwide, African nations continue to face challenges in gaining access.
U.S. Travel Policy and Future Changes
The US government has not provided a timeline for when additional countries might be added to the Visa Waiver Program. However, diplomatic efforts and compliance with US security requirements may influence future decisions.
For now, citizens of excluded nations must continue using the standard visa application process to visit the United States.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
