Qatar Joins Visa Waiver Program, Boosting Travel Between U.S. and Gulf Nation.
In a significant move announced Tuesday, the Biden administration revealed a new agreement that will ease travel between the United States and Qatar. American citizens will soon be able to visit Qatar for longer periods, and Qatari nationals will gain visa-free access to the U.S. for tourism and business.
Qatar will become the first Gulf country to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, a scheme that permits citizens from certain countries to travel to the U.S. without a visa. This is contingent upon their governments meeting specific security and information-sharing criteria. As part of the new arrangements, the U.S. will have access to Qatari passenger records and databases on serious criminals and suspected terrorists, according to U.S. officials.
While a precise start date has not been finalized, visa-free travel for Qatari citizens is expected to begin before December.
Additionally, American travelers will benefit from the agreement. Currently, U.S. tourists and business travelers can visit Qatar without a visa but are restricted to a 30-day stay. Beginning October 1, this limit will be extended to 90 days.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised the development, stating, “Qatar’s adherence to the stringent security requirements for the Visa Waiver Program will strengthen our strategic partnership and improve the flow of people and commerce between our nations. This move will make travel between the U.S. and Qatar safer, more secure, and easier for both Americans and Qataris.”
The Visa Waiver Program currently includes nationals from 42 countries, primarily U.S. allies in Europe. Citizens of these countries can travel to the U.S. without a visa but must undergo screening by American officials before entry.
Under the Biden administration, Qatar will be the third country to join the program, following Croatia and Israel.
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