US excludes Nigeria, UK, others from visa-free entry for 2025

The United States government has officially released its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) list, with Nigeria and other African nations completely excluded amid President Donald Trump’s mass deportation.

While 40 countries, including European, Asian, and select Middle Eastern nations secured visa-free entry into the US, no African nation made the cut as the country introduced policy updates on permit privilege eligibility and others.

Major US allies like the United Kingdom were also left out, although British citizens remain eligible under specific conditions.

According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs website, the Visa Waiver Programme allows most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.

The agency stated: “Travellers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor visa.”

The visa waiver programme allows travellers from eligible countries to visit the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.

Instead of going through a lengthy visa process, eligible individuals can apply for an electronic system for travel authorisation (ESTA) before departure.

The 2025 visa waiver programme includes 40 countries whose citizens can now travel to the United States without a visa.

This year, Romania has joined the list as a new entrant. However, Taiwan and the United Kingdom remain eligible under specific conditions.

What the US visa waiver programme means

The visa waiver programme allows travellers from eligible countries to visit the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.

Instead of going through a lengthy visa process, eligible individuals can apply for an electronic system for travel authorisation (ESTA) before departure.

What changed in the 2025 VWP

While most of the VWP list remains unchanged, adding Romania marks a significant update. The U.S. has also focused on enhancing security checks and prioritising countries with strong diplomatic ties and border security standards.

Nevertheless, Romania, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom are excluded from the U.S. visa and interview waiver programme for 2025.

Here is the full list of eligible countries: