The United States has announced updated eligibility requirements for its Visa Waiver Program (VWP), meaning some travellers who were previously eligible for visa-free entry will now be required to obtain a U.S. visa before travelling. 

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to enter the United States for tourism or business visits of up to 90 days without first applying for a visa. However, travellers must still obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding their flights. 

According to the updated guidance issued under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, certain categories of travellers are no longer eligible to use the programme and must instead apply for a visitor (B) visa through a U.S. embassy or consolate.

The restrictions apply to nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries who have travelled to or been present in the following countries on or after March 1, 2011:

North Korea
Iran
Iraq
Libya
Somalia
Sudan
Syria
Yemen
In addition, travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries who visited Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, are also no longer eligible for visa-free travel under the programme, except in limited cases involving official diplomatic or military duties. 

The updated policy also affects individuals who hold dual nationality with any of the following countries:

Cuba
North Korea
Iran
Iraq
Sudan
Syria

Such travellers must obtain a U.S. visa before entering the country, even if they are citizens of nations that participate in the Visa Waiver Program.

The U.S. government clarified that the restrictions do not prohibit travel to the United States. Instead, affected individuals are required to complete the standard visa application process at a U.S. embassy or consulate before travelling. 

Travellers who remain eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must continue to obtain a valid ESTA authorisation before departure and comply with all programme conditions, including limiting their stay in the United States to no more than 90 days for tourism or business purposes.