On May 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State, rescinded Romania’s designation into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This decision came less than four months after Romania was initially designated for inclusion in the program on January 9, 2025. The DHS cited concerns over border and immigration security, emphasizing the need to maintain the integrity of the VWP.
Background of Romania’s VWP Designation
Romania had long sought inclusion in the VWP, which allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. A key requirement for VWP eligibility is maintaining a nonimmigrant visa refusal rate below 3%. In fiscal year 2024, Romania achieved a refusal rate of 2.61%, meeting this criterion.
Following its designation, Romania was set to join the VWP on or around March 31, 2025. However, on March 25, 2025, the DHS paused the implementation to conduct a review of Romania’s designation. The review concluded with the decision to rescind Romania’s VWP status on May 2nd 2025.
Factors Influencing the Rescission
While the DHS emphasized security concerns, various factors may have contributed to the decision:
Visa Refusal Rate Compliance
Although Romania met the single-year visa refusal rate requirement, its two-year average remained above the 3% threshold, potentially affecting its eligibility.
Reciprocity Issues
The VWP requires reciprocal visa-free travel for U.S. citizens. Reports indicated that Romania’s continued imposition of visa requirements on U.S. citizens violated this principle, influencing the DHS’s decision.
Political and Security Concerns
The DHS’s review aimed to ensure adherence to the VWP’s security requirements, reflecting the administration’s focus on border and immigration security.
Pathways for Romania’s Reentry into the VWP
To regain eligibility for the VWP, Romania must address the factors that led to its removal:
Maintain Low Visa Refusal Rates
Sustain a nonimmigrant visa refusal rate below 3% over a multi-year period to meet the program’s requirements.
Ensure Reciprocity: Implement visa-free travel for U.S. citizens to align with the VWP’s reciprocity standards.
Enhance Security Measures
Continue collaborating with U.S. law enforcement and counterterrorism authorities, and comply with information-sharing agreements.
Diplomatic Engagement
Engage in diplomatic efforts to address any political concerns and demonstrate commitment to the VWP’s principles.
Implications for Romania and Other VWP Countries
Romania’s removal from the VWP underscores the importance of sustained compliance with the program’s requirements. It serves as a reminder to current and aspiring VWP countries of the need for continuous adherence to security standards, reciprocity, and low visa refusal rates.
For Romanian citizens, the rescission means reverting to the standard visa application process for travel to the United States, potentially leading to increased processing times and travel delays. This development may also impact bilateral relations and necessitate renewed efforts to meet the VWP criteria.
In conclusion, while Romania’s removal from the VWP represents a setback, it also provides an opportunity for the country to reassess and strengthen its compliance with the program’s requirements. Through concerted efforts and collaboration with U.S. authorities, Romania can work towards requalifying for the VWP in the future.