Visitors with recent travel to listed nations or dual citizenship must now obtain US visas
The United States has updated its Visa Waiver Program (VWP), making travellers who have visited certain countries or hold dual nationality with designated nations ineligible for visa-free entry into the country.
Under the Visa Waiver Program, citizens of participating countries can travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. However, eligible travellers are still required to secure approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure.
New restrictions under 2015 law
According to the U.S. government, the changes are based on the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, which requires some travellers who would ordinarily qualify for visa-free entry to instead obtain a U.S. visa.
The updated policy affects travellers who have visited or been present in the following countries:
- North Korea
- Iran
- Iraq
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Yemen
- Cuba (for travel on or after January 12, 2021)
The restrictions apply to nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries who travelled to or were present in North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011.
Similarly, travellers from participating countries who visited Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, are also no longer eligible for visa-free travel under the programme.
Dual nationals are also affected
The U.S. government also stated that citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries who hold dual nationality with any of the following countries must obtain a visa before travelling to the United States:
- Cuba
- North Korea
- Iran
- Iraq
- Sudan
- Syria
Limited exemptions are available for individuals who travelled to the affected countries while performing official diplomatic or military duties on behalf of a Visa Waiver Program country.
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The updated guidance means affected travellers must apply for a visitor (B) visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate before entering the country, even if they are citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program.
The U.S. government added that travellers who remain eligible under the programme must obtain a valid ESTA approval before departure and comply with all programme requirements, including limiting their stay to no more than 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.