Romania Blocked From Joining US Visa Waiver Program in 2025 Amid Security Shift

Despite earlier progress toward joining the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP), Romania has officially been excluded from the list of participating countries for 2025. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the decision was made to preserve national security and uphold the integrity of the program.

“Maintaining the Visa Waiver Program’s high standards is essential to our national security,” said Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at DHS. “In light of this Administration’s focus on border and immigration security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has decided, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to rescind Romania’s VWP designation effective immediately.”

Security Concerns Prompt Reversal of Earlier Approval

Under President Biden’s administration, Romania had been on track to join the VWP after reducing its U.S. visa refusal rate to below the required 3% threshold. As of early 2024, Romanian nationals had achieved the milestone, making them technically eligible for visa-free travel to the United States starting January 2025.

However, the Trump administration, which returned to office in early 2025, overruled the previous approval. DHS stated that Romania’s inclusion would be halted “to protect U.S. borders” and to re-evaluate eligibility standards under the program.

Trump Administration Overturns Biden-Era Agreement

The move marks a significant reversal of U.S. immigration policy. The prior administration had planned to ease travel for Romanian citizens, reflecting improved bilateral relations and Romania’s efforts to meet all program requirements.

Romania’s Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu responded to the decision, calling it a temporary issue:

“We will take advantage of this — hopefully short-lasting — delay to work with our American partners to clarify all issues of concern to the U.S. government.”

Stricter Travel Rules & New Red List Plans

In a broader shift, the U.S. is also considering implementing a new color-coded travel risk system. Under this framework, travelers from countries placed on a “red list” may be barred from entering the United States altogether.

As part of the tightening of immigration controls, U.S. embassies in 17 EU countries have issued warnings that travelers may face deportation for violating visa terms—even minor ones.

What This Means for Romanian Travelers

For now, Romanian citizens must continue applying for traditional U.S. visas, facing interview wait times and consular processing. Despite meeting technical requirements, the political climate in Washington will play a critical role in future decisions.

While DHS has not ruled out Romania’s eventual inclusion in the VWP, it has made clear that any such move will require alignment with heightened national security priorities.