Designation of State of Qatar into the Visa Waiver Program Announced
On September 24, 2024 the Secretary of Homeland Security together with the Secretary of States announced the designation of Qatar into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), becoming the first Gulf State with this designation, after meeting stringent requirements that this agreement entails.
Starting no later than December 1, 2024, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online app will be updated to allow citizens and national of Qatar to apply to travel to the United States for business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a US visa. These authorizations are generally valid for two years. Travelers with valid B-1B-2 visas will remain an option for Qatari citizens.
