US Includes Qatar in Visa Waiver Program, Reports Reuters

Qatar Joins U.S. Visa Waiver Program, Facilitating Visa-Free Travel

The United States has announced that Qatar will be admitted into its visa waiver program, enabling Qatari citizens to travel visa-free for up to 90 days, effective by December 1 at the latest.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State issued a joint statement highlighting that Qatar becomes the first Gulf nation to enter the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, having met rigorous security standards set by the U.S. government.

Qatar has been instrumental in facilitating mediation efforts between Hamas and Israeli officials amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, particularly regarding the release of hostages taken during the attack on October 7.

An administration official remarked on the strong defense ties between the U.S. and Qatar, praising Qatar’s leadership on pressing the Taliban regarding human rights and providing support in humanitarian efforts in Sudan, among other contributions.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that Qatar’s compliance with the stringent security criteria to join the Visa Waiver Program will further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations and enhance the movement of individuals and commerce.

To qualify for the visa waiver program, which allows visitors to stay for tourism or business without a visa, countries must satisfy requirements related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management. Qatar undertook a comprehensive government effort to fulfill these obligations, which included collaboration on intelligence sharing related to terrorism and serious crimes.

With its admission, Qatar becomes the 42nd member of the program, which expands infrequently. Recent additions include Croatia in 2021 and Israel last year. The program mandates that countries grant U.S. citizens similar visa-free access.

Currently, U.S. citizens can enter Qatar without a visa, and starting October 1, they will be permitted to stay for up to 90 days instead of the previous limit of 30 days.