Qatar Joins US Visa Waiver Program for Muslim Citizens

On Tuesday, the Gulf nation of Qatar was officially admitted into the U.S. visa waiver program, becoming the second Muslim-majority country to gain this status. This program allows Qatari citizens to travel to the United States for business or tourism without needing a visa for up to 90 days. The decision was announced by the U.S. departments of State and Homeland Security, which noted that Qatar met strict eligibility criteria, including a low visa refusal rate and a commitment to reciprocal treatment for American travelers. Qatar's strategic partnership with the United States has strengthened in recent years, particularly highlighted by its role in negotiating cease-fire agreements in Gaza and assisting during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The U.S. government emphasized that this development reflects the growing collaboration between the two nations, underscoring their shared commitment to security and stability in the region. While Qatar has a population of over 3 million, only about 320,000 are Qatari citizens eligible for the program, as the majority of residents are foreign workers and expatriates without Qatari passports. The visa waiver program requires travelers to obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which simplifies the process compared to traditional visa applications. Starting October 1, U.S. citizens will also benefit from the new arrangement, as they will be allowed to stay in Qatar for up to 90 days without a visa. This reciprocal agreement is expected to enhance tourism and business exchanges between the two countries, further solidifying their bilateral relationship.