The United States of America has recently announced that Croatia will become the newest addition to its Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This development allows Croatian nationals to travel to the US for tourism or business purposes without the need for a visa.

Croatia Joins US VWP List

Croatia now joins the list of 40 countries included in the US VWP. Among these countries are 23 fellow members of the European Union (EU), as well as several other nations whose citizens currently benefit from visa exemption when traveling to the United States.

Simplified Travel Procedures for Croatians

• Croatian passport holders no longer need to apply for a B1/B2 visa at a US embassy.
• They can visit the country by completing a quick online registration form through ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

ESTA Update for Croatian Travelers

To accommodate Croatian travelers, the ESTA platform will be updated before December 1, 2021, to include the necessary information and procedures specific to Croatian citizens.

Prompt Approval After Nomination

The decision to add Croatia to the VWP was made less than two months after the United States officially nominated Croatia for VWP membership. This swift action demonstrates the positive reception and support from both nations.

Strengthening the Croatian-US Relationship

• Croatia has been included in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which is seen as a major achievement in the bilateral relationship between Croatia and the United States.
• The inclusion in the VWP is expected to foster economic and security cooperation between the two countries.
• Leaders from both Croatia and the United States have praised this development as a significant milestone.

Changes in Travel to the US for Croatians: Inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program

Under the US Visa Waiver Program, Croatian citizens can now visit the United States without the need to undergo the time-consuming process of applying for a tourist or business visa. This recent decision brings about a significant change in the travel requirements for Croatians planning a trip to the US.

Simplifying the Visa Process

• Croatian nationals no longer need to schedule an appointment at the US Embassy in Zagreb.
• The visa application process has been simplified.
• Personal visits to the Embassy are no longer required.
• Necessary documentation can be submitted through alternative methods.
• B1, B2, and B1/B2 visas are still available for travel to the US.

Online Application through ESTA

Fortunately, with the recent decision, Croatians no longer need to go through this lengthy procedure. Instead, they can now apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) visa waiver online. This simplified process allows them to complete a quick form from the comfort of their own home using any computer or internet-connected device.

Convenience and Efficiency

Gone are the days of submitting visa applications in person at embassies. 

• Croatian passport holders can now register with ESTA online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies.
• This shift towards online applications ensures a more convenient and efficient process for Croatians planning to visit the United States.
• The United States has made it easier for Croatian citizens to explore the wonders of the country by enabling online applications and removing the burden of a traditional visa application process.

Terms of the ESTA for Croatians under the Visa Waiver Program

Once approved, the ESTA is valid for 2 years, allowing Croatians to visit the US as many times as they like during this period. It provides convenience and flexibility for travel between the two countries.

• Each stay can last up to 90 days, providing ample time for Croatian visitors to explore various destinations within the US.
• Croatians can use the US ESTA for both leisure and business purposes, making it suitable for a wide range of travel needs.
• However, for activities such as work, the visa waiver agreement will not apply. Croatian visitors engaging in work-related activities must obtain the appropriate type of US visa to cover their trip.
• The ESTA can be used to arrive in the US by air or cruise ship, ensuring convenient access for Croatian travelers.
• It's important to note that the ESTA is not applicable for entry into the US by crossing land borders. Croatian visitors must choose air or cruise travel options when utilizing the ESTA.

By understanding these guidelines, Croatians can make the most of their US travel opportunities while adhering to the specific terms and conditions of the ESTA program.

Croatia's Path to Joining the US Visa Waiver Program

To become a part of the US Visa Waiver Program, countries must meet a number of requirements.

Croatia has met each of the requirements set by the US. As a result, the American government has decided to amend the US visa policy and add Croatia to the visa-waiver list.

Criteria for US Visa Waiver Program inclusion:

1. Use of e-passports
2. Visitor refusal rate below 3%
3. Security-related data sharing with the United States
4. Timely reporting of lost and stolen passports
5. Maintenance of counterterrorism measures
6. Effective law enforcement
7. Well-maintained border and immigration control
8. High document security standards
9. Close cooperation with US law enforcement and counterterrorism authorities

Statements from US officials:

Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas stated that Croatia's inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program was "an important recognition of our countries' shared economic and security interests." He congratulated Croatia on becoming the 40th member of the VWP and expressed anticipation for continued close cooperation.

Jalina Porter, principal deputy spokesperson at the State Department, expressed pleasure with the decision and praised Croatia as a trusted partner and NATO ally. She emphasized that travel between the countries would strengthen their strong ties.

Croatian perspective:

President Milanovic described membership in the VWP as a foreign policy goal and believes it will deepen the ties between Croatia and the US. The Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs sees this decision as an impetus for strengthening relations with the United States.

EU Commissioner's approval:

Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs for the EU, expressed gratitude for the decision and its positive impact on Croatia.