The US Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. This guide explains the US Visa Waiver Program 2026, lists eligible countries, shows how to apply for ESTA, and gives practical tips to avoid common problems.
What is the US Visa Waiver Program 2026?
The US Visa Waiver Program 2026 lets nationals of participating countries enter the United States without a traditional visa for short stays. Admission is for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit.
Travelers must have an approved ESTA and an e-passport. Approval to travel under the program is not guaranteed; final admission is decided by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry.
Key requirements for Visa Waiver Program 2026
- Valid passport from an eligible country (machine-readable e-passport).
- Approved ESTA authorization prior to boarding.
- Purpose of travel: tourism, business, or transit only.
- Stay limited to 90 days or less.
- No prior visa violations, serious criminal record, or certain travel to restricted regions.
Updated list of eligible countries for the US Visa Waiver Program 2026
Below is the list of countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program as commonly recognized. Always confirm with the official Department of Homeland Security or CBP website for the final, up-to-date list before travel.
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Chile
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea (South Korea)
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
Note on changes
Governments can add or remove countries. For final confirmation and any 2026 changes, check the official CBP or Department of State pages at least a few weeks before travel.
How to apply for ESTA under the US Visa Waiver Program 2026
ESTA is the online authorization required for travel under the Visa Waiver Program. Apply at least 72 hours before departure, though earlier is recommended.
Step-by-step ESTA process
- Visit the official ESTA website and start a new application.
- Enter personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.
- Answer background and eligibility questions accurately.
- Pay the required fee online using a valid card.
- Receive email confirmation. Most decisions are immediate, but some take up to 72 hours.
ESTA is usually valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. One ESTA can be used for multiple trips within its validity period.
Common reasons for ESTA denial
- Previous overstay or immigration violations in the US.
- Criminal record that makes you inadmissible.
- Incorrect or inconsistent answers on the application.
- Travel to restricted countries or regions on official watchlists.
ESTA approval does not guarantee entry to the United States. Final admission is decided by a CBP officer at the port of entry.
Practical tips for Visa Waiver Program 2026 travelers
- Apply for ESTA well before booking nonrefundable tickets to avoid last-minute denials.
- Carry proof of return or onward travel and funds for your stay.
- Ensure your passport is an e-passport with an electronic chip and is valid for your planned stay.
- Disclose previous visits, arrests, or visa denials honestly on the ESTA form.
Case study: Short real-world example
Maria, a citizen of Spain, planned a two-week business trip to New York in spring 2026. She applied for ESTA three weeks before travel and approved the same day. At the airport she showed her e-passport and return ticket, answered routine questions to CBP, and was admitted for 90 days. She avoided trouble by applying early and carrying clear travel documentation.
If Maria had an earlier overstay in the United States, her ESTA would likely have been denied and she would have needed to apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a US consulate.
Final checklist before travel under the US Visa Waiver Program 2026
- Confirm your country remains on the official VWP list.
- Obtain an approved ESTA and save the confirmation number.
- Verify your passport is an electronic passport and valid for the stay.
- Bring proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
- Be prepared to answer CBP questions at arrival honestly and succinctly.
For the most reliable, up-to-date information on the US Visa Waiver Program 2026 and eligible countries, visit the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection or Department of Homeland Security websites. When in doubt, consult the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.