The United States has ratified that citizen from 41 countries can now enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program. This update has kindled curiosity around the world—especially among travelers from South Asia. The big question arises: Is Pakistan on the list?
Details about the Visa Waiver Program?
The Department of Homeland Security (US) is involved in managing the Visa Waiver Program, permit travelers from eligible countries to enter the American territory for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. Moreover, these countries provide the same privilege in return to U.S. passport holders. The core objective of this is to make short-term travel extremely vital while maintaining strong security standards.
Travelers must need to know about it to use the VWP:
• Have a valid e-passport with biometric information
• Apply for and receive ESTA ratification (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling
• Use the waiver only for tourism or business trips, not work or study
Is Pakistan Eligible for Visa-Free Entry?
Currently, Pakistan is not a part of the Visa Waiver Program. This means Pakistani passport holders must still apply for a U.S. visa via the regular process before traveling.
Here is the list of the Countries That Enjoy 90-Day Visa-Free Entry to the U.S.
Here’s a look at some of the countries currently included in the Visa Waiver Program:
• Europe:
France, Germany, UK, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden
• Asia-Pacific:
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand
• Middle East & Others:
Israel, Qatar, Chile, and Taiwan
Read more: Croatia relaxes work visa regulations to attract digital nomads, skilled professionals
Passport & Security Requirements
To enter under the VWP, travelers need:
• An e-passport with a digital chip
• A passport that’s machine-readable
• ESTA approval before boarding the flight
Exceptions: Who Still Needs a Visa?
Even if you’re from a VWP country, you will be required a visa if:
• You’ve visited countries such as
- Iran
- North Korea
- Iraq
- Syria
- Cuba in recent years
You have dual nationality with those countries
It’s due to the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015—a law specifically meant to strengthen U.S. border security.
If you are from a non-VWP country or Pakistan and deciding to visit the U.S., you need to start your visa application early and ensure all documentation is in order.