The United States has released the list of eligible countries for its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), with notable revise with the United Kingdom been excluded from the general eligibility and African countries including Nigeria were also disqualified.
Significantly, is that no African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, or South Africa, were included in the list, however, Romania was integrated as addition, reflecting the US government’s focus on strengthening diplomatic ties and prioritizing countries with strong border security standards.
According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, the VWP allows citizens or nationals from participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.
The Bureau stated on its website: “Travelers 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 2025 programme introduces updates to travel policies and permit eligibility criteria, simplifying visa-free entry for millions and facilitating easier access for business and tourism.