The US Government has included Qatar in its Visa Waiver Program, which currently includes 41 countries. This means that by December 1, 2024, citizens of Qatar may enter the US for business and tourism and stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Qatar’s inclusion was announced by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security on September 24, 2024.
Traveling to the US from Qatar with the Visa Waiver Program
Qatar will be the 42nd country to be part of the Visa Waiver Program and the first among Arab States in the Persian Gulf to be included.
Use the ESTA
If you’re a Qatari national, you can start applying for the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online or using the mobile app starting December 1, 2024. ESTA is a fully automated electronic system that screens passengers before they can travel to the US using the Visa Waiver Program.
Valid for 2 years
Travel authorizations from ESTA are typically valid for 2 years upon issuance. Once you have one, you can stay in the US for up to 90 days as long as it’s for business or tourism purposes. As a Qatari citizen with a valid B1 or B2 visa, you may keep using your ESTA travel authorization for tourist or business travel to the US.
Can Americans travel to Qatar without a visa?
Yes. Starting October 1, 2024, Qatar has allowed US citizens to enter the country for stays of up to 90 days — an increase from the previous 30-day limit. However, US travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival date and must have a confirmed hotel booking upon entry.
Overall, the Visa Waiver Program’s expansion to include Qatar represents a mutual trust and a strengthening of ties between the two nations, which can lead to increased travel and cooperation to benefit sectors like tourism, business, education, and cultural exchanges.
Understanding the Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program allows nationals from participating countries to travel to the US for business or tourism without a visa and stay for 90 days or less. Note that eligible travelers need a valid ESTA approval before they go and must also meet all program requirements, including having an e-passport (a secure type of passport containing an electronic chip that allows authorities to scan and verify that your identity matches the information on the passport.)
Strengthening security partnerships
The Visa Waiver Program fosters strong security partnerships between the US and participating countries. To be included, countries must meet rigorous standards in the following areas:
- Law enforcement
- Border management
- Document security
- Counterterrorism
- Immigration enforcement
These standards ensure that participating countries issue secure travel documents and can extend visa-free privileges to US citizens without discrimination. Additionally, these countries are expected to cooperate closely with US counterterrorism and law enforcement agencies.
To qualify for initial designation, a country’s nonimmigrant visa refusal rate must be below 3% in the previous fiscal year.
A promising security initiative
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas has lauded the Visa Waiver Program as one of the US’ most successful security initiatives. By including Qatar — which is a global aviation hub — the program facilitates increased information sharing and ultimately strengthens US security.
Qatar’s inclusion in the program underscores its commitment to meeting stringent security standards. This partnership between the US and Qatar is poised to further enhance cooperation in areas such as law enforcement, counterterrorism, and border security.
Not all Qataris will qualify under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program might provide the opportunity to visit the US for tourism or business. However, if you were previously denied a visa, there’s a chance for your ESTA application to be denied, too. As a result, you won’t be able to travel to the US under this program. You may want to consider applying for a traditional visa through a US Consulate or Embassy. For personalized advice on your situation, please consult a NY visa lawyer at Berd & Klauss, PLLC.
Navigate visa and immigration matters with Berd & Klauss, PLLC.
Our immigration law firm handles a wide range of cases involving families and individuals seeking US citizenship or permanent residence. Likewise, our NY visa lawyer can assist you if you’re concerned you might not qualify under the Visa Waiver Program. Book your consultation today by calling 212-461-7152. You may also send us a message via [email protected].