The United States has designated Romania as a participant in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), a move enhancing mutual security and fostering closer economic ties.
Introduction
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas and Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken announced Romania’s inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. This decision strengthens bilateral relations, simplifies travel for Romanian citizens, and underscores Romania’s commitment to meeting stringent security and compliance requirements.
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program allows eligible citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Romania becomes the 43rd member of the VWP, joining under Secretary Mayorkas’s tenure alongside Croatia, Israel, and Qatar.
Benefits of the VWP include:
- Enhanced counterterrorism collaboration.
- Streamlined travel for legitimate purposes.
- Strengthened economic and cultural exchange.
Romania’s Path to VWP Designation
Romania’s inclusion followed rigorous compliance with the program’s requirements, including:
- A nonimmigrant visitor visa refusal rate below 3% in the previous fiscal year.
- Issuance of secure travel documents.
- Reciprocal travel privileges for U.S. citizens.
- Extensive cooperation with U.S. law enforcement and counterterrorism authorities.
Romania also implemented enhanced vetting protocols and partnered with the U.S. to share critical data on terrorism and serious crimes.
Travel Opportunities for Romanian Citizens
Starting March 31, 2025, Romanian citizens can apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to visit the U.S. under the VWP. Applications will be accessible via the ESTA website or the “ESTA Mobile” app, available on iOS and Android.
ESTA vs. B-1/B-2 Visa: Main Features
Feature |
ESTA Authorization |
B-1/B-2 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Two years or until passport expiration | Up to 10 years |
| Application Process | Online or mobile app | In-person embassy interview |
| Purpose of Travel | Tourism, business (up to 90 days) | Tourism, business, other |
| Required for U.S. Entry | Yes, for VWP travelers | Yes, if no ESTA authorization |
Implications for U.S.-Romania Relations
Romania’s VWP designation reflects the deepening partnership between the two nations. It demonstrates shared priorities in security, economic prosperity, and cultural exchange. U.S. citizens, who already enjoy visa-free travel to Romania for up to 90 days, will benefit from a stronger bilateral framework.
Preparing for Travel
Romanian citizens planning to visit the U.S. should ensure they:
- Hold a valid passport with at least three months’ validity from the travel date.
- Submit their ESTA application early to avoid delays.
To Sum Up
Romania’s entry into the Visa Waiver Program signifies a milestone in U.S.-Romania relations, promoting secure, efficient, and reciprocal travel. For more information, visit the DHS Visa Waiver Program page.
Sources: THX News & The Department of Homeland Security.
