On May 2, 2025, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in coordination with the Department of State, officially rescinded Romania’s designation in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
The decision is a reversal of the earlier inclusion of Romania into the VWP announced on January 9, 2025, by the Biden administration, which would have allowed Romanian citizens to travel to the United States for tourism or business without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
The implementation of Romania’s VWP status was paused on March 25, 2025, pending a comprehensive review. Following this evaluation, DHS concluded that rescinding Romania’s participation was necessary to uphold the integrity of the VWP and to ensure US border and immigration security.
The reasons behind the rescission have not been clearly explained by DHS, and it is not clear whether this is a temporary measure or a longer-term removal. For now, Romanian citizens should expect that visa-free travel to the US is no longer an option and plan all future trips accordingly.
Impact on Romanian Nationals
The sudden reversal of Romania’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program has created immediate and practical consequences for Romanian travelers.
Anyone who had planned to travel to the United States using an approved ESTA should now assume that authorization is no longer valid, regardless of the original approval date. Attempting to board a flight or enter the US under the VWP will likely result in denial of boarding or refusal of entry.
Effective immediately, Romanian nationals are required to obtain a B-1/B-2 visa for short-term travel to the United States. The application process involves completing the DS-160 form, paying the applicable visa fee and attending an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Given the abrupt nature of the change, visa interview slots are expected to fill quickly. Those with upcoming travel plans should apply as soon as possible to avoid long wait times, especially during peak travel months.
Existing ESTA authorizations issued to Romanian travelers are no longer valid and there is no transition or grace period for those already issued an ESTA. Airlines are required to verify valid travel authorization at check-in, and US Customs and Border Protection will not honor ESTAs issued to Romanian nationals. If a traveler has already booked travel under the assumption of visa-free entry, they should immediately review refund and rebooking options and factor in the time needed to obtain a visa.
Romanian citizens who currently hold a valid B-1/B-2 visa may continue to use it for entry into the United States. There is no requirement to reapply unless the visa is expiring.
Those who previously qualified for a waiver of the in-person interview, such as certain repeat travelers or applicants under age 14 or over 79, may still be eligible for that waiver, but this will depend on the consulate’s current policies and availability.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and to plan accordingly, considering the reinstated visa requirements for Romanian citizens traveling to the United States. Romania could well be reconsidered for inclusion in the VWP in the future, should it meet all statutory eligibility criteria as outlined in Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Need assistance?
For specialist guidance and support with your options to travel to the US, contact our US immigration attorneys.
Author
Founder & Principal Attorney Nita Nicole Upadhye is a recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, (The Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal and AILA) and an experienced and trusted advisor to large multinational corporates through to SMEs. She provides strategic immigration advice and specialist application support to corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, artists, actors and athletes from across the globe to meet their US-bound talent mobility needs.
Nita is an active public speaker, thought leader, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.
