Visa Waiver Program Countries (2026) — Full List & Rules
By The Visit America editorial team · Last verified July 5, 2026
Around 40 countries are in the Visa Waiver Program. Their citizens can visit the US for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA instead of a visa — but must hold an e-passport and meet the eligibility rules.
Who’s in the Visa Waiver Program
The VWP includes most of Western and Central Europe (for example the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries and many more), plus Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand, Chile and others. Israel and Croatia are among the more recent additions.
Because membership is added to — and occasionally suspended — over time, we don’t reproduce a frozen list here that could go stale. The authoritative, current list is on travel.state.gov, linked below. Check it against your passport’s country of citizenship.
Being in the VWP isn’t automatic entry
Even if your country is a member, you must still: hold a compliant electronic passport, get an approved ESTA before you travel, keep the trip to 90 days or less, and travel for tourism or business. Some travellers are excluded from the VWP based on prior travel to certain countries or dual nationality, and must get a visa instead.
If your country isn’t listed
You’re not eligible for ESTA/visa-free travel and should apply for the appropriate visa — usually a B-1/B-2 visitor visa — through a US embassy or consulate.
Frequently asked questions
How many countries are in the Visa Waiver Program?
Around 40. The exact number changes as countries are added, so confirm the current list on travel.state.gov.
Is the UK in the Visa Waiver Program?
Yes. UK citizens travel to the US on an approved ESTA for short tourism or business trips, provided they meet the eligibility rules.
Does being in the VWP mean I don’t need anything to enter?
No — you still need an approved ESTA and a compliant e-passport, and you must stay within 90 days for tourism or business.
Once you’re cleared to enter
Roam States covers 1,000 US destinations, road trips and itineraries — plan where to actually go.
Cleared to enter? Plan your US trip on Roam StatesOfficial sources
This site provides general travel information, not legal or immigration advice, and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. Entry rules change and are enforced at the officer’s discretion. Always confirm current requirements on the official sources we link before you travel or apply.