Cyprus is closer than ever to joining the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which would be a historic moment for the island nation. This program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
The Cypriot government has completed all the necessary legal and technical steps to join the program. Only the final political step remains: approval by the U.S. administration. According to government spokesman Constantinos Letimbotiotis, the decision now rests with Washington's internal procedures.
Cyprus' inclusion in the program is expected to be recommended to the US Congress as early as fall 2025, presumably in September.
What will change for Cypriot tourists?
After official approval, Cypriot citizens will no longer need a B-type visa for short-term trips to the U.S. Instead, they will be able to use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which is already in place for most European countries.
To take advantage of the program, travelers must fill out an ESTA application at least 72 hours before departure. Authorization is valid for two years and allows for multiple trips to the US.
Please note that visa-free entry will only be available for tourism, business meetings, and non-employment or non-study trips. Students, workers, and migrants will still need to obtain the appropriate visa through a U.S. consulate.
When will it all start?
After the US officially approves it, a three-month transition period will begin during which Cyprus will be integrated into the ESTA system. Cypriots are expected to be able to take their first visa-free trips to the US by the end of 2025.