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Updated on 09.10.2024
Qatar is added as a new country to the Visa Waiver Program. We explain what participation in ESTA means for travelers to the USA.
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On September 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) officially announced that Qatar would be the first country in the Gulf region to join the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). From December 1, 2024, citizens of Qatar will be able to apply for ESTA and benefit from simplified entry into the USA.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows Qatari travelers to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or limited business purposes.
The Visa Waiver Program allows nationals of currently 42 participating countries to travel to the United States without first applying for a visa. Qatar's entry into the Visa Waiver Program is a significant step that will facilitate both travel and trade between the two countries.
From December 1, 2024, travelers to the USA with Qatari citizenship are excpected to apply for an entry permit on the official ESTA website or via the mobile ESTA app. The ESTA application is even easier and more secure via our partner HD Solutions at www.esta-application.com.
Until now, Qatari citizens could only enter the USA with a US visa. The introduction of ESTA means easier, faster and cheaper access to the United States.
Compared to the classic visa application for the USA, which can take several weeks, the processing time for an ESTA application is a maximum of 72 hours. The fees are also 21 $ for an ESTA application are significantly lower in contrast to 166.50 € (185 $) for a B-1 business visitor visa or B-2 tourist visa.
Travelers who want to attend conferences or go on vacation in the United States, for example, and who previously needed a B-1 / B-2 visa will benefit from this relief.
Qatari citizens who wish to travel to the USA without a visa must first submit an ESTA application electronically. The application is usually processed within 72 hours. Once approved, the ESTA travel authorization is valid for 2 years, unless the passport expires earlier.
While ESTA allows travelers to stay for up to 90 days per entry, a US visa can be used for longer stays and is mandatory for specific purposes such as work, study or immigration (even for short stays). Qataris traveling to the US for these purposes must still apply for a US visa in advance of their stay in the United States.
In order to be allowed to enter the USA with ESTA, certain requirements must be met, which apply equally to all VWP nationals and serve the security of all travelers. These include, among others:
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