Visa Waiver Program for Romania: What You Need to Know

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens from specific countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes without the need to apply for a visa. Romania, as a member of the European Union, is one of the countries eligible for this program. If you're a Romanian citizen planning a trip to the United States, the Visa Waiver Program for Romania may be your gateway to easier and quicker travel. However, before booking your flight, it’s crucial to understand the rules, benefits, and requirements of traveling to the U.S. under the VWP.

What is the Visa Waiver Program?

The Visa Waiver Program is a U.S. government initiative that allows citizens of eligible countries, including Romania, to visit the United States for short stays without the need to apply for a traditional visa. Instead, travelers must apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which is an online application system that determines your eligibility to travel under the VWP.

The VWP is mainly for tourism, business trips, or transit purposes. Romanian citizens can stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days without needing to obtain a visa, provided they meet all the requirements set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and USCIS.

Can Romanian Citizens Work on the Visa Waiver Program?

The short answer is no—Romanian citizens cannot work in the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. While the program allows for tourism and business-related activities, it strictly prohibits employment, paid work, or any activity that requires U.S. labor authorization.

Working in the U.S. on the VWP is a violation of the program’s terms and can lead to serious immigration consequences, such as being denied entry into the U.S. or being banned from returning for a period of time. The program only permits activities like:

  • Attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
  • Participating in short-term professional events or training (but not employment).

What Are the Requirements for Romanian Citizens to Travel Under the Visa Waiver Program?

To travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, Romanian citizens must meet certain requirements:

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

  1. ESTA Authorization: Before boarding a flight to the U.S., travelers must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). ESTA is an automated system that determines your eligibility to travel under the VWP. The application is submitted online and should be completed at least 72 hours before departure.

  2. Valid Passport: Travelers must have a valid Romanian passport that meets the U.S. passport requirements. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.

  3. Purpose of Travel: You can travel under the VWP only for tourism, business meetings, or transit. If you plan to visit family members, attend a conference, or engage in non-work-related professional activities, you are eligible for the VWP.

  4. 90-Day Stay Limit: The Visa Waiver Program allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days. If you need to stay longer, or if your purpose includes working or studying, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa, such as a B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourist) visa.

  5. Return or Onward Ticket: You must also have a return or onward ticket showing your intention to leave the U.S. at the end of your 90-day stay.

  6. No Prior Visa Violations: You must not have violated any previous visa terms or overstayed during prior visits to the U.S. Travelers with a history of visa violations may be ineligible for the Visa Waiver Program.

    Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

What Happens if You Work Under the Visa Waiver Program?

As mentioned, the Visa Waiver Program does not allow employment. If you attempt to work in the United States while traveling under the VWP, you will be violating U.S. immigration laws. This could result in:

  • Denial of Entry: If U.S. immigration authorities determine that you’re attempting to work during your visit, they can deny your entry into the country.
  • Deportation: If you're caught working while on the VWP, you could be deported and banned from re-entering the U.S. for a certain period of time, potentially making it much more difficult to visit in the future.
  • Record of Immigration Violation: Engaging in unauthorized work could leave a permanent mark on your immigration record, affecting future applications for visas or ESTA authorizations.

To avoid these consequences, it’s essential to understand and respect the conditions of the Visa Waiver Program.

Alternative Visas for Romanian Citizens Who Want to Work in the U.S.

If your goal is to work in the U.S., you will need to apply for a specific work visa. The U.S. offers several types of work visas depending on the nature of your employment. Some of the most common work visas include:

  • H-1B Visa: For individuals working in specialty occupations that require a higher level of education, such as engineers, architects, or IT professionals.
  • L-1 Visa: For employees of international companies being transferred to their U.S. offices.
  • O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary skills in fields like science, arts, or business.
  • B-1 Business Visa: For people traveling to the U.S. temporarily for business activities like attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts (but not for working or being employed).

Related Topics to the Visa Waiver Program for Romania

How to Apply for ESTA

Romanian citizens who wish to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program must complete an ESTA application. ESTA is an online form that takes just a few minutes to complete. You will be asked to provide personal details, travel information, and answer a few security questions. It’s essential to apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight to ensure everything is processed on time. If approved, your ESTA will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

U.S. Tourist Visa (B-2)

If you're not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, or if you wish to stay for a longer period than the 90 days allowed under the VWP, you can apply for a U.S. tourist visa (B-2). This visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months, but you will need to attend an interview at the U.S. embassy and provide additional documentation, such as proof of financial support and ties to Romania.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Travel Insurance for U.S. Visitors

Travel insurance is highly recommended for Romanian travelers heading to the U.S. Medical care in the U.S. can be expensive, and travel insurance will cover you in case of illness or accidents during your stay. It's also a good idea to ensure that your insurance covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other travel disruptions.

Conclusion

The Visa Waiver Program for Romania offers a fast and convenient way for Romanian citizens to travel to the U.S. for short visits for tourism or business purposes. However, it’s essential to understand that working or engaging in paid employment under the VWP is not permitted. If you plan to work in the U.S., you will need to apply for the appropriate work visa.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program or need help with your application, CLICK HERE to get started with your visa application process. By applying for a visa online, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared for your trip to the United States.

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

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