The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Friday evening the removal of Romania from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), only four months after it allowed Romanian citizens to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa.
The DHS statement, issued in coordination with the Department of State, confirmed the revocation of Romania’s designation under the program. ”Today, the Department of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Department of State, has terminated Romania’s designation under the Visa Waiver Program,” the announcement read.
In an official statement, The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) emphasized that Romania had met all the necessary requirements to participate in the program, and called the U.S. decision ”disappointing and unjustified.”, expressing ”deep regret” over the move.
“We consider this decision to be unjustified and contrary to the strong strategic partnership between Romania and the United States,” said MAE spokesperson Andrei Zamfir. “Romania has fulfilled all technical and legal criteria for VWP inclusion, and we will continue our diplomatic efforts to restore this status.”
As of now, Romanian travelers will once again need to apply for tourist or business visas, a process that can take weeks or even months depending on demand and consular availability. The Romanian Embassy in Washington has said it will continue to advocate for Romania’s inclusion in the VWP and hopes the decision will be reconsidered in the near future.
The Visa Waiver Program enables citizens of approved countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa, making it a coveted status that reflects a high degree of trust and cooperation. Romania had long campaigned for its inclusion, citing strong bilateral ties, a growing Romanian-American community, and compliance with security and travel standards.
