United States Announces that Qatar has joined the Visa Waiver Program

United States Announces that Qatar has joined the Visa Waiver Program

Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, in coordination with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, officially designated Qatar as a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This collaboration, centered on security and information sharing, will not only boost U.S. national security but also promote legitimate travel and trade between the two countries.

Both Secretary Mayorkas and Secretary Blinken praised Qatar for fulfilling the rigorous security standards required to join the VWP. 

"Qatar has proven to be an outstanding partner to the U.S., and our strategic ties have strengthened in recent years. This move highlights our partnership and mutual commitment to security and stability. By meeting VWP criteria, Qatar becomes the first Gulf nation to join the program. We encourage other nations to follow suit to enhance bilateral and regional security cooperation," stated the officials.

“The Visa Waiver Program is one of our most effective security tools. Qatar's inclusion will increase information sharing at one of the world's busiest travel hubs, further securing the U.S.,” said Secretary Mayorkas. “I applaud our Qatari counterparts for meeting the program's tough requirements and look forward to continued collaboration between our nations.”

Secretary Blinken added, "Qatar’s entry into the VWP will strengthen our strategic partnership and simplify travel and commerce between our nations. It will make travel between the U.S. and Qatar safer, more secure, and more convenient for both Americans and Qataris."

The VWP fosters comprehensive security cooperation between the U.S. and participating countries that meet strict standards in areas like counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration, and border management. These include maintaining a visa refusal rate below 3%, issuing secure travel documents, offering reciprocal entry privileges to U.S. citizens, and cooperating closely with U.S. law enforcement. Qatar made a concerted effort to meet these requirements, including establishing partnerships for sharing information on terrorism and serious crimes. DHS will continue monitoring Qatar's compliance.

By December 1, 2024, Qatar's citizens and nationals will be able to apply for travel to the U.S. for tourism or business through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), allowing stays of up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers can still use valid B-1/B-2 visas, and these visas will remain available to Qatari citizens. ESTA applications will be available online or via a mobile app.

U.S. citizens already enjoy visa-free travel to Qatar, and starting October 1, 2024, they will be able to stay for up to 90 days, an increase from the previous 30-day limit, provided they have a valid passport and a confirmed hotel booking upon arrival.