Understanding the Visa Waiver Program: Who’s eligible to enter US without visa

Key features of the Visa Waiver Program

Those travelling under the said VWP, will be required to meet certain criteria. Notably, all travellers must possess an e-Passport, which comes enhanced with an embedded electronic chip that stores biometric data, ensuring both the authenticity of the passport and the security of the traveller’s information.

Some important VWP passport requirements include:

Machine-readable zones on the biographic page.
A digital chip containing biometric data, ensuring an extra layer of security.

A digital photograph printed directly onto the data page, not glued or laminated, to prevent fraud.

Read more: 5 ancient cities once considered myths that actually exist!

Applying to travel under the Visa Waiver Program

Before travelling, all visitors under the VWP must apply for authorisation through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This automated system pre-screens travellers, ensuring they meet the necessary security standards before arriving in the US. It’s recommended to apply for ESTA authorisation as soon as travel plans are made, although approval typically only takes a short time.

List of countries participating in the said programme

Currently, 41 countries participate in the VWP, allowing their citizens easier access to the United States. They are as follows:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Brunei
• Chile
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Republic of Korea
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• United Kingdom

These countries meet strict security standards and maintain strong diplomatic ties with the US, ensuring that the Visa Waiver Program continues to function smoothly.

Read more: Indian states with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

How is the VWP beneficial?

The Visa Waiver Program streamlines the process of travel, and lets travellers enjoy the freedom of visa-free travel. This programme has been helpful in enhancing economic and cultural exchange between the US and participating countries. Apart from the diplomatic ties, this program boosts tourism, fosters business opportunities, and allows millions of people to experience what the US has to offer with reduced visa application barriers.