With international tourism rebounding and global business travel picking up, the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) continues to play a central role in facilitating short-term travel to the United States.
US Visa Waiver Program Update 2026
Under the VWP, citizens of participating countries can visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a traditional visa. Instead, travelers apply online for authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
The program benefits both travelers by streamlining entry and the U.S. economy, by boosting tourism and business activity. For 2026, the VWP remains largely unchanged in scope, with 39 eligible countries whose citizens can take advantage of visa-free travel under specific conditions.
This article breaks down who’s included in the VWP, how eligibility works, updates for 2026, and what travelers need to know before planning their trip.
Overview: Visa Waiver Program 2026 Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) |
| Eligibility | Citizens of 39 approved countries |
| Maximum stay | 90 days (tourism/business) |
| Required travel authorization | ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) |
| Typical processing | Within minutes |
| Fees | Standard ESTA processing fee |
| Validity | Typically 2 years for multiple entries |
Who is Eligible Under the 2026 Visa Waiver Program?
As of 2026, the Visa Waiver Program includes citizens from the following 39 countries. Travelers must have:
- A valid passport from one of the VWP countries
- An approved ESTA travel authorization
- A return or onward ticket
- A stay of 90 days or less for tourism, business, or transit
The 39 VWP Countries (2026)
Europe
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
Asia & Oceania
32. Australia
33. Japan
34. New Zealand
35. Singapore
36. South Korea
Americas & Caribbean
37. Chile
38. Bahamas
39. Costa Rica
These countries meet the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s standards for low visa refusal rates and strong security cooperation.
“The Visa Waiver Program helps facilitate safe and efficient travel for millions of international visitors while maintaining strong U.S. border security,” a DHS spokesperson explained.
What’s New for VWP Travelers in 2026?
While the list of eligible countries has not expanded this year, there are important procedural reminders and clarifications for travelers planning trips to the U.S.
ESTA Remains Mandatory
All VWP travelers must apply for travel authorization via ESTA before boarding a flight or ship to the United States.
- ESTA approval is generally valid for two years
- It allows multiple entries within the validity period
- Approval does not guarantee entry final admission is determined at the port of entry
Passport Requirements
Travelers must hold a machine-readable or e-passport from an eligible VWP country. Passports must be valid for the intended period of stay.
No Visa Changes for Long-Term Stays
The VWP still only permits short-term visits of up to 90 days. Any plan to work, study, or extend stay requires an appropriate U.S. visa.
How to Apply for ESTA (Visa Waiver Authorization)
- Visit the official ESTA website before travel
- Complete the online form with personal information
- Pay the processing fee (nonrefundable)
- Receive authorization (typically within minutes)
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Apply at least 72 hours before travel
- Confirm passport details match exactly
- Check ESTA status before each trip
- Update or reapply if passport information changes
“ESTA has streamlined U.S. entry procedures, but travelers must ensure accurate information to avoid delays,” a consular official said.
Who Does Not Qualify for VWP Travel?
Even citizens of VWP countries may be ineligible if they:
- Have a criminal record
- Have previously violated U.S. immigration laws
- Do not have a passport from a participating country
- Are seeking to work or study in the U.S.
In such cases, a nonimmigrant visa must be obtained through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
VWP vs. Traditional Visa: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Visa Waiver Program | Traditional Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application method | Online (ESTA) | Embassy/Consulate interview |
| Processing time | Minutes to days | Weeks to months |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days | Varies by visa type |
| Work/Study | Not permitted | Depends on visa class |
The VWP offers speed and convenience but is limited to short visits. For longer stays or work/study purposes, travelers must apply for the appropriate visa.
Tips for First-Time VWP Travelers
- Check passport validity: Must be valid for the duration of your stay
- Review ESTA approval: Print confirmation if possible
- Know your itinerary: Be prepared to show return or onward travel
- Understand your 90-day limit: Overstays can affect future travel eligibility
Conclusion: Planning Your U.S. Visit Under the Visa Waiver Program
The U.S. Visa Waiver Program continues to make short-term travel to the United States easier for citizens of 39 participating countries in 2026. By securing an ESTA authorization and complying with program requirements, eligible travelers can enjoy up to 90 days of tourism, business, or transit without a traditional visa.
Whether visiting for vacation, family, or business, understanding the requirements and updating travel documents early helps ensure smooth entry and peace of mind.
“For eligible travelers, the Visa Waiver Program remains one of the most efficient ways to visit the United States without a visa,” a Department of State official said.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all flights to the U.S. require ESTA?
Yes. VWP travelers must have approved ESTA before boarding.
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?
No. The VWP does not allow extensions for tourism or business.
Is the $14 ESTA fee refundable?
No. The fee is nonrefundable, even if authorization is denied.
Can VWP travelers work or study in the U.S.?
No. Work or study requires a visa, even for short visits.
Does ESTA guarantee U.S. entry?
No. Final admission is determined at the U.S. port of entry.