Qatar, home to futuristic skyscrapers, arid deserts, and impeccable architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design, is officially the first Arab country to join the US Visa Waiver Program. According to the US Departments of State and Homeland Security, the country fulfils the stringent eligibility criteria of minimal visa refusals, next-to-nil overstays, and reciprocal visa-free entry for US passport holders to Qatar.

However, even though Qatar’s population is over 3 million, only about 3,20,000 of its citizens are eligible for the US visa waiver programme since a great deal of the country’s population is foreign workers and expatriates.

Here’s more on the other countries eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program.

Qatar joins the US Visa Waiver Program: How it’ll impact tourism

#Qatar becomes first Arab nation in #US #Visa Waiver Program https://t.co/E30KGhteCL

— The Times Kuwait (@thetimesq8) September 26, 2024

Now a part of the US Visa Waiver Program, citizens of Qatar can enter the United States for leisure or business for up to 90 days. However, they must acquire electronic approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This process is entirely digital and doesn’t warrant an in-person interview.

“Qatar’s fulfilment of the stringent security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program will deepen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two countries,” said Antony Blinken, Secretary of State, according to a Reuters report.

Starting October 1, 2024, US citizens will also be able to visit Qatar visa-free and stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Overall, the US Visa Waiver Program aims to simplify travel to the United States and open avenues for business, travel and leisure. Under this scheme, passport holders of selected countries can visit and stay in the US for up to 90 days, visa-free. Applicants are required to procure authorisation via the ESTA and must possess an e-passport.

(Feature image credit: Beate Vogl/Pexels)

Related | The US Expands Visa-Free Travel To Boost Tourism

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

Written By