Citizens from 41 countries can now travel to the United States for short-term visits without needing a visa, thanks to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows eligible travellers to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes — with no need for embassy appointments or visa interviews.
Permissible activities under the VWP include tourism, vacations, medical treatment, visiting friends or relatives, attending scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions, participating in short-term unpaid training, and negotiating business contracts. Amateur participation in musical, sports, or similar events or contests — as long as no payment is involved — is also permitted, along with enrollment in short recreational courses that do not offer academic credit.
However, the VWP does not cover study for credit, employment, work as foreign media personnel, or applying for permanent residence in the United States.
Is India Part of the Visa Waiver Program?
No, India is not included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Indian passport holders are required to apply for a visa prior to entering the United States, even for short visits. The visa process involves completing a formal application, submitting supporting documents, attending a visa interview at a U.S. consulate, and paying the applicable visa fees.
List of Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to the U.S.
As of now, the following 41 countries participate in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and Taiwan.
What Is ESTA and Why Is It Required?
Even if you are a citizen of one of the 41 VWP countries, you are not automatically cleared for entry into the U.S. You must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, this online screening system determines eligibility to enter under the VWP.
ESTA approval is mandatory prior to boarding any flight or ship bound for the United States. Once approved, it is typically valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires — whichever comes first. Applications must be completed through the official ESTA website.
Exceptions: Who Must Still Apply for a Visa?
Certain travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries are ineligible for ESTA and must obtain a traditional visa if they:
- Have travelled to or been present in North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011
- Have visited Cuba on or after January 12, 2021
- Hold dual citizenship with Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria
Such travellers are required to apply for a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa through the standard application process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Final Checklist for VWP Travellers
To qualify for travel under the Visa Waiver Program, you must:
- Be a citizen of one of the 41 VWP countries
- Hold a valid e-passport (with an embedded electronic chip)
- Have an approved ESTA before departure
- Intend to stay for 90 days or less
- Travel solely for tourism or business purposes
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the U.S.
Each individual, including infants and children, must have their own e-passport to qualify.
While the Visa Waiver Program simplifies entry into the U.S. for citizens of certain countries, Indian nationals are not eligible and must follow the traditional visa process. Always verify your eligibility and ensure all documentation is in order before planning your U.S. trip.
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