The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens from 43 countries to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa. This program, managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is designed for short-term visits related to tourism or business. Travelers must meet specific conditions, including holding a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and an e-passport with biometric data.
Countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program include the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, France, South Korea, and Australia, among others. Pakistan is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, meaning Pakistani nationals must apply for a visa before visiting the United States.
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To qualify for visa-free entry under the VWP, travelers must ensure their visit is for business or tourism only. Their passports must be machine-readable and contain a digital chip with biometric data. Additionally, certain restrictions apply due to the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015. Citizens of VWP countries who have traveled to nations like Iran, North Korea, or Cuba after specific dates may no longer qualify for visa-free travel and must apply for a visa.
This program promotes ease of travel between the U.S. and partner countries, offering mutual benefits by allowing U.S. citizens similar access to participating nations for short visits without requiring a visa.
