Qatar has recently become the first Gulf country and the 42nd globally to join the United States’ Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, in consultation with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, designated Qatar into the program to further enhance the security interests of the U.S. in addition to encouraging legitimate travel and commerce between the two nations.

“By meeting the VWP requirements, Qatar becomes the first Gulf country to enter the program and we encourage additional partners to meet all program requirements to allow for entry into the program in the interest of advancing bilateral and regional security cooperation,” added the announcement.

Easier travel between Qatar and the U.S.

Both Mayorkas and Blinken commended Qatar for meeting the stringent security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program, noting that Qatar has been an exceptional partner for the U.S.

“Qatar’s participation in the program increases information sharing regarding one of the world’s busiest travel and transfer hubs, strengthening the security of the United States,” said Mayorkas.

“Qatar’s entry will make travel between the United States and Qatar safer, more secure, and easier for both Americans and Qataris,” said Blinken.

Requirements to enter the Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program builds comprehensive security partnerships between the U.S and member countries that meet strict requirements related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management.

These requirements include that the country have:

• A rate of nonimmigrant visa refusals below 3 percent during the previous fiscal year
• Issues secure travel documents
• Extends reciprocal entry privileges to all U.S. citizens and nationals without regard to national origin, religion, ethnicity, or gender;
• Works closely with U.S. law enforcement and counterterrorism authorities.

Therefore, Qatar has made significant efforts to meet all program requirements, including entering into partnerships with the U.S. to share information on terrorism and serious crimes. As with all Visa Waiver Program member countries, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will continually monitor Qatar’s compliance with all program requirements.

How do Qatari citizens and nationals benefit?

Starting no later than December 1, 2024, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online application and mobile app will allow citizens and nationals of Qatar to apply to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.

These authorizations are generally valid for two years. Travelers with valid B-1/B-2 visas can continue to use their visas for travel to the U.S. In addition, B-1/B-2 visas will remain an option for Qatari citizens.

Qatari citizens and nationals can find ESTA applications may be found at esta.cbp.dhs.gov  or download the “ESTA Mobile” app.