Citizens of 43 countries can travel to the US without obtaining a traditional visa under the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP), provided they meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.

The Visa Waiver Program allows eligible travellers to visit the US for tourism, business or transit for up to 90 days without a visa. Instead, they must obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding their flight or vessel.

According to the US government, travellers must hold an electronic passport (e-passport), receive an approved ESTA, and comply with all programme requirements to qualify for visa-free entry.

Full list of Visa Waiver Program countries

The countries currently participating in the US Visa Waiver Program are:

Andorra

Australia

Austria

Belgium

Brunei

Chile

Croatia

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

South Korea

Latvia

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malta

Monaco

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Romania

San Marino

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

United Kingdom

The US Department of Homeland Security administers the programme in partnership with the Department of State.

While citizens of these countries can travel without a visa, they must still obtain ESTA approval before departure and are subject to inspection by US Customs and Border Protection officers upon arrival.

The Visa Waiver Program is limited to short-term visits of up to 90 days and does not permit travellers to work or study in the United States. Those planning to remain in the country beyond the permitted period or for purposes not covered under the programme must apply for the appropriate US visa. (Vanguard)