Qatar Joins US Visa Waiver Program

Qatar has become the first Gulf country admitted into the United States Visa Waiver Program. The move allows Qatari citizens to travel to the US for up to 90 days without needing a visa. In return, US citizens will also get the same privileges when traveling to Qatar.

The US State Department and the Department of Homeland Security said in a joint statement that Qatari citizens would be able to apply for this initiative no later than December 1. According to US Homeland Security, the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) builds comprehensive security partnerships between the United States and designated countries that meet strict requirements related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, and document security.

"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," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in the statement. Qatar is the 42nd member to join the program, which requires countries to allow US citizens similar visa-free travel.