The United States government has implemented stricter eligibility rules under its Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), excluding certain categories of citizens from participating countries from accessing visa-free travel to the country.
The measures stem from the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act, which requires individuals affected by the restrictions to apply for a standard US visa before entering the country.
According to the current security regulations issued by the US Department of State, a traveller’s eligibility can be withdrawn based on their recent travel record or dual citizenship status.
As a result, passport holders from countries participating in the VWP who would ordinarily qualify for visa-free entry are automatically rendered ineligible if they have travelled to or stayed in designated high-risk countries within the last 10 years.
Which travel histories trigger visa disqualification?
The restrictions mainly affect travellers who have visited countries identified by US security authorities as high-risk destinations. The policy specifically applies to:
• Nationals of VWP countries who have travelled to or been present in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011.
• Nationals of VWP countries who have travelled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021.
Who faces dual nationality restrictions?
The policy also permanently prevents certain dual nationals from using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which is designed to facilitate visa-free entry under the programme.
Instead, those affected are required to arrange a standard visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
The restriction applies to:
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of Cuba.
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of Iran.
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of Iraq.
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of Sudan.
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also citizens of Syria.
Officials from the US Department of State explained that only limited exceptions are available for travellers who visited the listed countries while carrying out official diplomatic or military duties on behalf of a Visa Waiver Programme member nation.
