Maple News reports that Qatari nationals can now travel to Canada without a visa, thanks to a recent change announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As of November 25, 2023, Qatar has officially been added to Canada’s list of visa-exempt countries.
Qatari travellers no longer need to apply for a traditional visitor visa to enter Canada. Instead, they can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a simplified entry permit that is processed almost instantly.
The move represents a significant improvement for Qatari visitors, who previously faced weeks-long waits for visa processing. The eTA application takes just minutes, requires only a valid passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card, and costs just $7 CAD (about 18 QAR).
Qatari citizens planning to visit Canada by air must apply for an eTA before boarding their flight. The eTA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires—whichever comes first. Travellers can enter Canada multiple times during this period, provided they meet Canadian admissibility requirements.
For Qatari nationals already holding valid Canadian Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs), such as student or work permits, there is no need to apply for an eTA until those current documents expire. These individuals can continue using their existing TRVs as normal.
To apply for an eTA, applicants must complete a short online form, available on the official Canadian government website. The application cannot be saved mid-way, so travellers are advised to have all their necessary information ready beforehand. Most applications are approved within minutes. In rare instances, applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation, typically within 72 hours.
This policy change is expected to enhance travel and business ties between Canada and Qatar, making travel to Canada more accessible for thousands of Qatari citizens each year.
According to Maple News, this is part of Canada’s broader efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and simplify travel for low-risk travellers from trusted partner nations.