Canada has officially expanded travel access for Qatari citizens by lifting its long-standing visa requirement, a policy shift that took effect at 5:30 a.m. EST on Thursday. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Lena Metlege Diab announced the change, highlighting its role in enhancing business, tourism, and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The Canadian government stated that visa-free entry for Qatari travellers reflects its commitment to managed migration while safeguarding national security. The move is expected to support growth in trade, tourism, and investment, building on the consistently increasing exchanges between Canada and Qatar.
Qatari citizens who hold a valid temporary resident visa may continue to use it until it expires or until their passport becomes invalid. Those without an existing visa will now be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travel to Canada. Eligibility details and applications are available at canada.ca/eTA, with most approvals processed within minutes.
Minister Diab said that lifting visa requirements marks an important milestone in Canada–Qatar relations. The step is expected to strengthen business and investment opportunities, generate economic benefits for both nations, and deepen a diplomatic relationship spanning more than 50 years.
In 2024, bilateral trade between the two countries reached approximately CAN $325 million. Visitor arrivals from Qatar also grew to around 9,000, an 11.5% increase from the previous year. Cooperation continues to advance across key sectors including artificial intelligence, clean energy, agribusiness, and critical minerals.
Air connectivity has further improved following the expansion of the Canada–Qatar Air Transport Agreement in late 2024, facilitating greater mobility and supporting stronger commercial ties.
Recent Random Post:
