The measure does not affect those travelling to the country without a visa under the Visa Waiver programme.

Under the programme, Slovenians may still travel to the US without a visa, but those who require and qualify for a B-category non-immigrant visa may now get 10-year, multiple-entry visas for business and tourist travel, which is up from five years so far.

Crew members who qualify for C or D-category visas are now also eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for up to ten years, which is the longest visa validity possible under US law, the embassy said.

Under the Visa Waiver programme, Slovenians travelling to the US for business, transit or leisure do not need a visa for a stay up to 90 days, but they need it to study, work, or stay there for more than 90 days.

The validity of short-term visas was extended as of 20 September.