What to Expect
- CBP anticipates the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online application and mobile application will be updated on or around March 31, 2025, to allow most citizens and nationals of Romania to apply to travel to the United States under the VWP for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a U.S. visa.
- These authorizations are generally valid for two years.
- Travelers with valid B-1/B-2 visas may continue to use their visa for travel to the United States, and B-1/B-2 visas will remain an option for Romanian citizens. ESTA applications may be found at esta.cbp.dhs.gov or download the “ESTA Mobile” application through the iOS App Store or the Google Play store.
- U.S. citizens already enjoy visa-free travel to Romania and are eligible to stay in Romania for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes if they have a passport that is valid for at least three months from the date of arrival.
DHS will continually monitor Romania’s compliance with all program requirements and, as required by statute, conduct a comprehensive assessment of Romania’s continued designation in the VWP on the national security and law enforcement interests of the United States at least once every two years.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Romania is the 43rd member of the VWP and the fourth country added under Secretary Mayorkas’s tenure (Croatia (2021), Israel (2023), and Qatar (2024)). Additional information on the VWP can be found at www.dhs.gov/visa-waiver-program. Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.