Big news for travelers Since December 1st, 2024, the United States includes Qatar in the list of countries of the Visa Waiver Program. This means that all citizens of Qater can visit the United States for either business or recreation without using a regular visa.
What is the US VWP?
The United States Visa Waiver Programme permits citizens from some states to visit United States without a visa for up to three months. It was specifically designed as a fast and convenient way to travel this way and venture to the US for a short business trip, or tourism.
What Nations are Allowed to Visit the VWP?
Qatar has been the most recent addition to this list and thus now the VWP is comprised of 42 member countries. Here’s the full updated list:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Chile
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Korea, Republic of
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar (New addition)
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
How Does the VWP Work?
Foreign travelers wishing to enter the United States under VWP are required to have e-passport that has a micro-chip. Then they complete an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
A token fee is paid and the overall process normally takes 3 days including the working weekends. Once approved, travelers are free to visit the US without a visa under the arrangement made under the VWP.
Important Notes:
- 90 Days Max: Staying in the US is restricted to 90 days.
- Tourism or Business Only: The VWP is for short visits; one is not allowed to take up any employment during their time in the country.
- Return Ticket: A return ticket or an onward travel document is required.
Why Qatar’s Inclusion Matters
This update also preserves the relation between the United States and Qatar and also facilitates travel between the two regions. It also creates new possibilities of effective business activities and tourism for Qatari citizens. Well readers from the 42 VWP countries, now is the time to start planning your trip to the United States!
