As an immigration lawyer with over 7 years of experience helping clients navigate the U.S. visa system, I have worked closely with the Romanian Embassy to stay up-to-date on the latest policies and requirements of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Romania has been a member of the VWP since 2008, allowing Romanian citizens to travel to the U.S. for business or tourism for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Read below about “U.S. Visa Waiver Program – Key Insights from the Romanian Embassy”.
However, over the past few years, I have noticed an increase in confusion and rejected travel authorizations among my Romanian clients wishing to visit the U.S. As such, I wanted to provide some key insights directly from embassy officials on properly utilizing the VWP.
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The Importance of ESTA Approval
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people underestimating the importance of obtaining an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departing for the U.S. An ESTA is mandatory for all VWP travelers and serves as your temporary travel authorization. According to Natalia Vasile, Vice Consul at the Romanian Embassy in Washington D.C.:
“An ESTA approval is what allows us to board that plane to the U.S. Without it, airlines will refuse boarding. I see too many people wrongly assuming that having a valid passport and VWP membership is enough to let them enter the States, but the ESTA is just as critical.”
The ESTA application requires you to provide background information to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Upon review, you will either be approved or denied authorization to travel.
Once approved, your ESTA is usually valid for two years, allowing for multiple entries to the U.S. within that timeframe. However, as Vasile explains, things can change:
“Even with an approved ESTA, a traveler’s eligibility can change over time. We have the right to refuse entry at the U.S. port of entry based on changes to legal status, criminal records, health issues like COVID vaccination status, or other concerns.”
Maintaining VWP Eligibility
While the VWP allows for easier travel to the U.S. for Romanians, it is a privilege that comes with requirements. As Igor Branza, Diplomat at the Romanian Embassy, tells me:
“We have the responsibility to ensure our citizens understand the program’s rules. You must have an e-passport, obtain ESTA approval, demonstrate proof of financial means to support your stay, and maintain eligibility every time you enter the U.S.”
Some of the main reasons I see travelers get turned away at the border include:
- Staying beyond the maximum 90-day period
- Accepting unauthorized employment
- Having a criminal record or connection to terrorist activity
- Lacking proper COVID documentation
Branza stresses that, “Any misuse of the VWP can result in fines, deportation, and even permanent rescinding of eligibility.”
Long-Term U.S. Stays
For Romanians looking to stay in the U.S. for longer than 90 days—whether for work, study, or other reasons—you will need to obtain the appropriate visa.
As Vasile advises: “The VWP is meant for short-term tourism or business visits only. If you intend to move more permanently or engage in any sort of employment, you must apply for the right U.S. visa well in advance of travel.”
Some of the most common visas I help clients obtain include:
- H-1B skilled worker visa
- F-1 student visa
- J-1 work/study exchange visitor visa
- Green card for permanent residency
The visa application process involves more paperwork, longer processing times, and higher fees compared to the VWP. However, it allows you to legitimately remain in the U.S. as long as your visa conditions permit.
“Attempting to ‘get around’ the 90-day limit through border runs or other means will only get you into trouble,” cautions Branza. “Abide by the rules of your entry program.”
Stay Vigilant Against Visa Fraud
Given the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, fraud unfortunately occurs. Scammers often target vulnerable groups like the elderly or those in a hurry to emigrate.
I have seen cons and schemes like:
- Fake or invalid visas sold for exorbitant fees
- Bogus sponsors or job offers used to secure work visas
- Counterfeit or altered passports and documents
- Fabricated VWP eligibility letters
“Always verify any third parties you work with, use only reputable visa services, and double-check all documentation for accuracy,” Vasile recommends. “If an opportunity seems too good to be true, it very well may be.”
Do not risk your chances of entering the U.S. by working with shady operators. Being the victim of fraud will destroy your credibility with customs officers. Get all about U.S. Visa Waiver Program – Key Insights from the Romanian Embassy.
How My Firm Can Help
As a licensed immigration attorney with the experience to walk you through the entire visa process, I want to make sure Romanians have access to legitimate services. My team stays up-to-date on all VWP and visa policies to best serve our clients.
We take care of:
- Eligibility assessments
- Guidance on optimal visa pathways
- Form preparation including ESTA applications
- Document collection/reviews
- Status monitoring/renewals
- Responses to requests, delays, or denials
Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need assistance with planning your next trip to the U.S. I am always happy to provide my expertise. I hope you like reading “U.S. Visa Waiver Program – Key Insights from the Romanian Embassy”.
Michaela Krajanova is an expert in travel journalism and blogging. With over 10 years of experience and a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management, Michaela Krajanova has cultivated a substantial following on Instagram, showcasing her travel photography and insights. Explore engaging travel guides and stories on her Instagram handle @michaela_krajanova, where she connects with a vibrant community of travel enthusiasts. Michaela’s work makes travel accessible and inspiring for readers around the globe, providing firsthand experiences and expert advice.
