On May 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the removal of Romania from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), less than four months after its inclusion in January by the Biden administration.
The decision followed a suspension of the program in March for further review. According to DHS, Romania’s exclusion was deemed necessary to preserve the integrity of the program and maintain border and immigration security.
Romania had become the 43rd country to join the VWP and the fourth added under President Biden, following Croatia, Israel, and Qatar. The program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. without a visa for up to 90 days.
Romanian authorities have not yet publicly commented on the U.S. decision. U.S. citizens remain eligible to visit Romania without a visa for up to 90 days.
DHS expressed appreciation for Romania’s cooperation on security matters and noted that the country could be reconsidered for future participation if all required criteria are met.
