These countries will now be able to enter the United States without a visa. What about Cubans with dual nationality?

The list of countries that can enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has recently been updated.

The main change is the inclusion of Romania, as well as adjustments to the requirements for travelers from the United Kingdom. At the same time, thousands of Cuban citizens with dual European nationality are wondering if this measure benefits them.

What is the Visa Waiver Program?

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business without a visa, provided their stay does not exceed 90 days. This requires completing a pre-approved electronic authorization known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

En 2025, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Romania has been formally added to the program. This means that holders of a valid Romanian passport can now enter the United States without having to go to an embassy. In contrast, the United Kingdom maintains its status, but applicants are now required to have unrestricted permanent residence in British territory to be eligible.

What happens to Cubans with European passports?

One of the groups most interested in this type of change is Cubans with dual nationality, especially those with passports from Spain, Italy, France, or, now, Romania. Under current regulations, they are eligible for the VWP if:

• They use only their European passports to enter.

• They have not traveled to Cuba or other countries banned by the United States since 2011.

• They do not have active Cuban nationality or habitual residence in Cuba.

This means that many Cubans living in Europe who have not recently traveled to the island could use their EU passports to apply for an ESTA and enter without a visa. However, those residing in Cuba or who have registered a trip to the island in recent years could be denied authorization, even if they hold European citizenship.

Travel to banned countries may disqualify you.

DHS warns that travel to certain countries since March 2011—such as Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Libya, Syria, Somalia, or Yemen—may make a person ineligible for the VWP, even if they hold a passport from a participating country. In those cases, a traditional visa must be applied for at an embassy or consulate.

This has generated frustration among Cubans with dual nationality, especially those who reside in Spain or Italy but regularly visit their families in Cuba. Although a European passport grants them access to the ESTA, their travel history may prevent them from entering without a visa.

No African country was included in 2025

As for other regions, the United States has not added any new African countries to the program. Nor have nations such as Cuba, Venezuela, or Nicaragua, which remain excluded for political or security reasons or lack of bilateral agreements, been incorporated.

Current policy excludes countries that do not meet the required standards for document security, information exchange, or consular cooperation from the VWP. In Cuba's case, its status as a state sponsor of terrorism is a direct impediment to any progress in this regard.

How to apply for ESTA correctly

To use the VWP, travelers must have a valid e-passport and complete the ESTA form online before travel. The process costs $21, is typically completed within 72 hours, and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

ESTA approval does not guarantee automatic entry to the United States, as the final decision rests with the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon arrival. Therefore, it is essential not to misrepresent your application, especially regarding previous travel or dual citizenship.