Anna Hartz
U.S. Boots Romania from Visa Waiver Program After Security Review
For years, Romanians have hoped for easier travel to the United States.
Many looked forward to the benefits of the Visa Waiver Program, which would allow them to enter the U.S. for short stays without needing a visa.
That hope has now taken a major step back, reports Digi24.
Was Included in the Program Earlier This Year
On Friday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State announced that Romania is no longer part of the Visa Waiver Program.
The decision comes just a few months after Romania was officially included in the program in January 2025.
According to the DHS, the program was suspended in March to review Romania’s situation.
That review is now complete. The Biden administration has decided to revoke Romania’s participation in order to, as they put it, “protect border security and the integrity of the program.”
The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded quickly. In a statement, the ministry said it regrets the decision.
It also stressed that Romania had met all the legal conditions required for inclusion in the program.
A Political Decision
However, it acknowledged that the U.S. decision is political and depends on the administration’s current priorities.
The Romanian government said it will continue to work with the U.S. through diplomatic channels.
Officials want to make sure Romanians are treated fairly and that the path toward visa-free travel is not closed forever.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Visa Waiver Agreement includes provisions for future reconsideration.
The statement also noted that the American government is currently focused on border control and limiting illegal immigration.
These issues have become a top concern both politically and technically.
While Romania is now out of the program, the government says it will keep pushing forward.
It plans to keep working with the United States to meet all necessary requirements.
Officials hope Romania will one day be brought back into the Visa Waiver Program.
Until then, Romanian travelers will once again need to apply for visas before visiting the U.S.