Canada now lets Qatari citizens visit the country without needing a visa.
Canada now welcomes Qatari citizens without a visa. The change took effect on November 25 at 5:30 a.m. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the update earlier that day. The new system makes travel much easier for visitors from Qatar. They only need an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their trip.
IRCC says the update offers faster entry and fewer steps for Qatari travellers. Many visitors waited weeks for a visa in the past. The new process cuts that wait time to only minutes in most cases. The shift marks a major improvement for anyone planning trips for tourism, study, or business.
Qatari visitors now complete a short online eTA form. The system often gives decisions within minutes. Travellers only need a valid passport, a form of payment, and an email address. The fee is $7, or about 18 Qatari Riyals.
IRCC says the form takes only a few minutes. The form also cannot be saved, so travellers need all details ready. The system then sends an email with the decision. Some travellers may need to send extra documents. IRCC sends instructions within 72 hours in those cases.
The eTA links directly to the traveller’s passport. It stays valid for up to five years or until the passport expires. Travellers may enter Canada many times while it remains valid. They must still meet entry rules each time.
Visitors with a current temporary resident visa may still use it. They can enter Canada until their visa expires or their passport expires.
1. Gather your documents
Travellers need a passport and a credit or debit card. They should also review the instructions before starting.
2. Complete the online form
They fill out the eTA form in one sitting. The form needs basic travel and personal details.
3. Pay the fee
The fee is $7. Payment happens right after submitting the form.
4. Check your email
IRCC sends most approvals within minutes. Some travellers may need to send more information. IRCC sends those requests within 72 hours.
Canada cites a strong and expanding relationship with Qatar. Both countries continue to build ties in tourism, aviation, trade, and new industries. In 2011, they signed the Canada–Qatar Air Transport Agreement. The two countries updated it in 2024 to increase flight access. Qatar Airways now offers seven weekly flights between Doha and Toronto.
Trade also continues to grow. Both countries work together in clean energy, food production, and mineral development. Their trade reached more than $325 million in 2024.
Government officials say this step supports that growing partnership. “Lifting visa requirements is an important step in our relationship with Qatar and makes it easier for eligible travellers to experience all that Canada has to offer. Not only will it strengthen opportunities for business and investment, it will deliver economic benefits at home and abroad, while also deepening the strong ties between our two countries,” says Lena Diab, minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
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