Visa-free entry in US for 41 countries under US Visa Waiver Program: Is India on the list? Find out now

US Visa Waiver Program: Citizens of 41 countries from around the world can now travel to the United States of America (USA) without needing a visa for up to 90 days. This is possible through the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) program which makes it easier for tourists and business visitors from certain nations to enter the country. But the big question is—is India included in this list of visa-free countries, and what is the process to get a US visa? Let’s find out.

What Is the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

The Visa Waiver Program is a special travel agreement that allows citizens of selected countries to visit the US without a visa for tourism, business, or transit, for a stay of up to 90 days. This programme is meant to promote easier travel and international relations.

To be eligible for visa-free entry in US under this programme, visitors must meet a few conditions, such as having an e-passport, a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval, and a return or onward ticket.

Is India Included in the List of VWP Countries?

Indian passport | Credit: BCCL

No, India is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. This means that Indian passport holders still need a US visa to enter the country, even for short visits. Indian nationals must go through the regular US visa application process, which involves submitting documents, attending interviews, and paying visa fees.

So, if you’re from India and planning a trip to the US, you’ll need to apply for a visa in advance.

Which Countries Are Eligible for Visa-Free Entry in the US?

As of now, the following 41 countries are eligible for visa-free entry in the US through the VWP:

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 (South Korea), Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom (UK).

In March 2025, Romania is the most recent country to be added to the list.

What Do You Need to Travel Under the Visa Waiver Program?

If you are from one of the VWP countries and want to enter the US without a visa, you must:

• Hold an electronic passport (e-passport): This passport contains a chip that stores biometric details.
• Get an ESTA approval: You need to apply online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) at least 72 hours before your trip.
• Stay for 90 days or less: Your trip must be for tourism, business, or transit only.
• Have a return or onward ticket: You must show that you plan to leave the US within 90 days.
• Have a clean travel history: You should not have visited countries like Iran or North Korea after specific dates, and you should not have a criminal record or past US visa overstays.

Important Things to Know About ESTA

An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.

• It allows multiple visits to the US during its validity period.
• You must pay a fee and fill out personal and eligibility details while applying.
• ESTA approval doesn’t guarantee entry—the final decision is made by US Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry.

What About Passport Validity?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the US, unless there's a specific agreement between your country and the United States that says otherwise.

What Should Indian Travellers Do?

Since India is not on the visa-free entry list, Indian travellers must follow the regular US visa process. This includes:

• Filling out the visa application form (DS-160),
• Paying the visa fee,
• Booking a visa interview,
• Attending the interview at the US Embassy or Consulate,
• Waiting for visa approval.

Is India Likely to Join the VWP Soon?

At present, there is no official update about India joining the US Visa Waiver Program. For now, Indian citizens must continue to apply for a US visa to travel for tourism, work, studies, or business.

The Visa Waiver Program is a great option for citizens of eligible countries to enter the US without a visa. However, travellers must follow the rules, apply for ESTA, and ensure all travel documents are up to date.

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