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Romania Officially Removed from U.S. Visa Waiver Program

The Trump administration cites national security concerns and democratic backsliding in Europe as key factors in the decision.

TIJUANA, MEXICO - APRIL 07: Ukrainians who are seeking asylum board a bus at dawn on their way to the El Chaparral port of entry before entering the United Stateson April 7, 2022 in Tijuana, Mexico. Authorities have opened the El Chaparral port of entry solely for the processing of Ukrainian asylum-seekers. U.S. authorities are allowing Ukrainian refugees to enter the U.S. at the Southern border in Tijuana with permission to remain in the country on humanitarian parole for one year. Over 2,000 Ukrainians have arrived to the U.S.-Mexico border city over approximately the last 10 days. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The Department of Homeland Security and State Department announced Romania's removal from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) on May 2, 2025.
  • The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of eligible countries to travel to the U.S. without a visa for up to 90 days, provided they meet strict criteria, including a visa overstay rate below 3%.
  • Romania's overstay rate improved to 2.61% in 2024 but had exceeded the threshold in prior years, peaking at over 17% in 2021.
  • U.S. officials also expressed concerns about democratic backsliding in Romania, citing recent election irregularities and broader European trends.
  • Romania has expressed regret over the decision and aims to meet all eligibility requirements to regain visa-free travel privileges in the future.