Changes to the Visa Waiver Program

Visa Waiver Program Changes

The Visa Waiver Program allows for nationals of approved countries to travel to the United States with less hassle than acquiring a visa. It exempts approved travelers from having to undergo the consular process to enter the United States, so instead of having to apply and interview a B-2 visitor visa, a foreign national of an approved country can undergo Electronic System for Travel Authorization (a DHS counterterrorism screening measure) and travel to the United States on the Visa Waiver program. Instead of 6 months like a B visa, it provides for a maximum of 3 months for the visit. The countries that are approved from the Visa Waiver Program are those with low incidences of fraud in US immigration.

Changes are set to take place with the Visa Waiver program because of fears that the program will be abused. 20 million visitors to the United States use this program annually. The White House has been working with the Department of Homeland Security to enhance security measures. Essential to these new enhancements is an investigation into countries prospective travelers have been to, such as countries designated as terrorist safe havens. The language is more general at this time, but it seems that countries will be incentivized or penalized, based on their cooperation. There is also a push for preclearance in 7 countries partaking in the Visa Waiver Program.

The House of Representatives is currently pushing for even more strict reforms on the program.