The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) lets citizens of participating countries travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less without getting a traditional visa. This guide explains what changed for 2026, lists the eligible countries, and walks you through the application steps for ESTA.
US Visa Waiver Program 2026: What You Need to Know
The VWP program continues to require travelers to have an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before boarding a flight or cruise to the United States. Approval for an ESTA does not guarantee admission, but it is a required pre-screening step.
Key practical points for 2026 include traveler responsibilities, document checks at entry, and maintaining compliance with VWP rules. Follow the steps below to avoid common problems at the border.
Who can use the US Visa Waiver Program 2026
Travelers who are citizens of VWP-designated countries and who have:
- A valid passport from a VWP country (biometric passports are required in most cases).
- An approved ESTA before travel.
- A trip of 90 days or less for tourism, business, or transit.
If you plan to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa through a US embassy or consulate.
Updated List of Eligible Countries
As of the most recent update, the following countries participate in the US Visa Waiver Program. Travelers from these countries should apply for ESTA before travel:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
Note: The official list can change if the US government adds or removes partners. Always verify the current list on the Department of Homeland Security or US Embassy website before planning travel.
The Visa Waiver Program lets eligible travelers stay in the United States for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa, but you must get ESTA approval before you travel.
How to Apply for ESTA under US Visa Waiver Program 2026
Applying for ESTA is an online process. Follow these steps to complete your application correctly:
- Visit the official ESTA website run by the US Department of Homeland Security.
- Complete the online form with your personal details and travel information.
- Pay the ESTA processing fee by card.
- Wait for approval; most decisions are returned quickly, but allow at least 72 hours before travel.
- Print or save your ESTA approval and bring it when you travel. Airlines will check ESTA before boarding.
Keep in mind that ESTA approval is typically valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport or change your name, reapply.
Common Reasons ESTA Is Denied
Understanding denial reasons helps you prepare. Common causes of refusal include previous immigration violations, certain criminal convictions, or incomplete/incorrect applications.
- Past overstays in the United States.
- Previous visa denials or deportations.
- Criminal history that makes entry inadmissible.
- Errors in passport information on the ESTA form.
If your ESTA is denied, you must apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate. Do not attempt to travel without the proper documentation.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before departure to avoid last-minute issues.
- Use the official government EST A site only; third-party services may charge extra fees.
- Carry proof of onward travel (return or onward ticket) and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.
- Keep digital and printed copies of your ESTA and passport data page separate from each other.
Short Case Study: Using the US Visa Waiver Program 2026
Maria is a marketing consultant from Spain who planned a short research trip to New York in 2025. She applied for ESTA two weeks before departure, paid the fee online, and received approval within 24 hours.
At the airport, Maria presented her passport and boarding pass. At US immigration she explained her business purpose and showed her return ticket. She was admitted for 90 days without needing a visa and completed her planned meetings in two weeks.
This example shows that timely ESTA application and carrying supporting documents reduces the risk of delays or denial at the border.
Final Checklist Before Travel
- Confirm your country appears on the VWP list.
- Apply for and receive ESTA approval.
- Ensure your passport meets entry requirements and is valid for your stay.
- Carry a return or onward ticket and contact details for accommodations or hosts.
If you have any complex issues—previous immigration violations, criminal records, or plans to stay longer than 90 days—contact the nearest US embassy or consulate for guidance. The official US government resources are the definitive place for updates to the VWP and the list of eligible countries.
