Official country list
#- 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
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan*
- United Kingdom**
How to confirm eligibility
#Eligibility depends on nationality, travel purpose, and other factors. Use the Visa Waiver Program page and the ESTA site to confirm eligibility before traveling.
Examples
#Example: A traveler from a VWP country uses ESTA for a short tourism visit and checks the official list before booking travel.
Example: A traveler plans to work or study and learns that VWP does not allow those activities, so they explore a visa instead.
Common misconceptions
#“VWP guarantees entry.”
Admission is decided at the port of entry, even with ESTA approval.
“VWP can be used for work or long-term study.”
VWP is for short-term visits and does not allow employment or long-term study.
“The country list never changes.”
The list can change when countries are added or removed, so verify the current list before travel.
How to plan
#Confirm your nationality and purpose of travel first. If your plans exceed the VWP’s allowed activities, plan for a visa instead.
ESTA approval and port-of-entry admission are separate steps, so build buffer time and keep documentation ready.
When to talk to a professional
#- Prior denials, overstays, or immigration violations
- Complex travel history or frequent U.S. visits
- Unclear activity that may require a visa
- Time-sensitive travel with limited options
Next steps
#VisaMind helps you confirm whether VWP or a visa fits your travel plan and builds a sequenced checklist with official sources.
Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program allows eligible travelers from participating countries to visit the U.S. for short stays without a visa, using ESTA.
Where can I verify the official country list?
The official list shows participating countries and confirms that ESTA is required for VWP travel.
Does VWP eligibility guarantee entry?
No. VWP allows travel with ESTA, but admission is decided at the port of entry.
Can I work or study on VWP?
VWP is for short-term visits and does not allow employment or long-term study. Confirm allowed activities before travel.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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