“No later than December 1, 2024”, Qatar will become the 42nd country included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and ESTA electronic travel authorization system.

One year after Israel, Qatar will officially become the first Arab state, the second Muslim country after Malaysia, and the 42nd nation overall to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) from December 1, 2024.

In a press release, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken explains that “Qatar’s fulfillment 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. Qatar’s entry will make travel between the United States and Qatar safer, more secure, and easier for both Americans and Qataris”.

“Starting no later than December 1, 2024,” the ESTA electronic travel authorization system’s online portal and mobile app will be updated to allow citizens of Qatar to apply to travel to the US for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a US visa.

This development represents a major step forward in diplomatic relations between Doha and Washington, further consolidating their strategic and economic ties. This rapprochement is not limited to the political sphere, but also extends to practical aspects, facilitating mobility between the two nations.

The Visa Waiver Program: what does it mean for Qatar?

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourist or business visits of 90 days or less, without the need for a traditional visa.

However, eligible travelers must obtain prior authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

In the coming weeks, Qatari citizens will be able to apply for ESTA authorization to visit the USA, greatly simplifying travel procedures.

This authorization is requested online via a relatively quick process, which enables the American authorities to verify travelers’ information before they board their flight to the USA. The procedure involves filling in a form with personal information, travel details, a few security questions and uploading a copy of the passport. On the mobile application, a “selfie” is requested to finalize the ESTA application; this requirement will soon be extended to applications made over the Internet.

The ESTA is generally approved within minutes, although some applications can take up to 72 hours. Once approved, it is valid for two years, or until the passport expires. It is also important to note that the ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States; it simply authorizes the traveler to proceed to U.S. ports of entry, where the final decision rests with immigration officials.

Diplomatic and strategic relations between Qatar and the United States

Diplomatic relations between Qatar and the United States have grown remarkably in recent decades. Qatar has become a key strategic ally in the Gulf region, particularly in terms of defense and security. The Al-Udeid airbase near Doha is one of the largest US bases abroad, and plays a crucial role in US military operations in the Middle East.

The two countries have also strengthened their collaboration in various sectors such as education, culture, energy and investment. For example, several American universities have campuses in Qatar, contributing to long-term academic cooperation. In addition, Qatari investments in the United States, particularly in the real estate and energy sectors, have strengthened bilateral economic relations.

A turning point in Qatar-U.S. relations

Qatar’s inclusion in the VWP symbolizes a turning point in relations between the two countries, marked by closer cooperation on security and mobility issues. It also reflects the United States’ willingness to recognize Qatar’s growing role on the international stage, not only as a regional mediator but also as a major economic partner.

The decision also comes at a time when Qatar is seeking to diversify its economy, with a particular focus on innovation and sustainable development. By facilitating business travel to the United States, Qatar hopes to attract more economic and technological partnerships.