10 Countries That Do Not Need a Visa to...

The U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in consultation with the State Department, permits citizens of designated countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. Below are 10 key participating countries and the latest updates for 2026.

1. United Kingdom

The UK was the first country to participate in the Visa Waiver Program, joining in July 1988. British citizens with the right of permanent abode can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business via ESTA, without a visa interview.

2. Japan

Japan joined the VWP in December 1988, becoming one of the earliest and most prominent Asian members. Japan consistently ranks among the top inbound markets for the U.S., alongside the UK, Germany, South Korea, and France.

3. Germany

Germany (then West Germany) was added to the VWP in July 1989 and has remained a cornerstone member ever since. German citizens with a valid biometric passport and ESTA approval enjoy seamless access to the United States.

4. France

France joined the programme in July 1989 and remains one of the highest-volume VWP travel nations. French nationals travelling for leisure, conferences, or short business trips can enter the U.S. without a visa.

5. Australia

Australia is one of the most prominent non-European members of the VWP. Australian passport holders can travel visa-free to the U.S. for up to 90 days via ESTA, and Australian citizens also do not need a visa or ESTA to visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands under a separate programme.

6. South Korea

South Korea is one of only a handful of Asian nations in the VWP and represents a major travel and diplomatic partner for the United States. South Korean citizens do not need a visa or ESTA to visit both Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, in addition to their standard VWP access to the continental U.S.

7. Singapore

Singapore is one of the few Southeast Asian countries in the VWP, reflecting its strong security cooperation and high passport strength. Singaporean citizens are among those who do not require a visa or ESTA to visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, making them eligible for multiple travel pathways into U.S. territories.

8. Chile

Chile is the only South American country in the Visa Waiver Program, having been added in recognition of its strong ties with the United States. Chilean nationals can visit the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business with an approved ESTA.

9. Israel

Israel was added to the VWP following years of diplomatic negotiations and security cooperation benchmarks. Israeli nationals with biometric passports can now travel to the U.S. without a traditional visa, representing a significant milestone in U.S.-Israel relations.

10. Qatar

Qatar is the most recent country to join the programme. Romania was designated on January 9, 2025, but that designation was not implemented before it was rescinded on May 2, 2025. Qatar's addition marked a major diplomatic achievement in U.S.-Gulf relations.