Qataris Can Travel to US Visa-Free for the First Time

On September 24, 2024, Qatar became the first Gulf nation to join the U.S. visa waiver program, allowing its citizens to travel to the United States without needing a visa. This change follows Qatar meeting stringent eligibility criteria, including maintaining a low visa refusal rate and agreeing to offer reciprocal visa-free travel for U.S. citizens.

The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security highlighted Qatar's exceptional partnership with the U.S., emphasizing their shared commitment to security and stability in the region. This admission into the program marks Qatar as the 42nd country to gain such access.

Although Qatar's population exceeds 3 million, only about 320,000 Qataris are eligible for the visa waiver program, as the majority of residents are foreign workers. The program allows eligible citizens to visit the U.S. for business or tourism for up to 90 days with prior approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Starting October 1, U.S. citizens will also benefit from visa-free travel to Qatar for up to 90 days. This development follows Israel's inclusion in the program in 2023, despite ongoing concerns regarding its treatment of Palestinian and Arab Americans.