Qatar, US To Launch ESTA For Visa-Free Travel

Qatar's Ministry of Interior (MOI), in collaboration with the US Department of Homeland Security and US Customs and Border Protection, will introduce the Electronic Travel Authorization System (ESTA) on Friday. ESTA allows Qatari passport holders visa-free travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which permits nationals of participating countries to travel to the other country without obtaining a visa for a period of up to 90 days.

According to Qatar News Agency, after the launch and activation of the ESTA online and mobile app, Qataris planning to travel to the US will be able to apply. The application process requires filling out the designated form 72 hours before the travel date and meeting other requirements, including identification and travel documents. Notably, Qatar was the first in the region to join the VWP program in September 2024.