The Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State announced Qatar is now a partner in the Visa Waiver Program. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) offers significant benefits to both the United States and qualifying countries. Tourism and business processes are eased, diplomatic relations are strengthened, visa processing times are reduced, and border crossings are more efficient.
No later than December 1, 2024, citizens and nationals of Qatar will be able to apply for travel to the United States for tourism or business reasons for up to 90 days without advance receive of a U.S. visa. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is used for VWP countries to apply for such travel. Individuals with a B-1/B-2 visa can continue to use their active visa for travel. B-1/B-2 visas continue to be an option for Qatari citizens.
To qualify as a VWP country, a strict set of requirements must be satisfied. Counterterrorism, immigration enforcement, border management, and law enforcement all have specific benchmarks. In addition, visa refusals must be below 3% for the previous fiscal year, reciprocal travel benefits for U.S. nationals must be available, and travel document requirements must be met, among other elements. As with all VWP countries, DHS continues to monitor compliance with the requirements of the program. U.S. citizens already have visa-free travel to Qatar. The ability to remain in Qatar for up to 90 days from the previous limit of 30 days for qualifying U.S. citizens becomes available on October 1, 2024. Qatar is the first Gulf country to enter the program.
If you have questions about the visa waiver program or any other U.S. immigration issue, contact us at ILBSG. We work with our clients to ensure they get the right advice for their particular situations backed with the most current policies and regulations.
