In a major update to Canada’s travel and immigration rules, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially lifted visa requirements for citizens of Qatar. The change came into force on November 25 at 5:30 a.m. and marks a significant milestone in Canada–Qatar travel relations.

Qatar is now among the select countries whose nationals can enter Canada using only an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a traditional visa. This transition is expected to dramatically simplify and speed up travel for Qatari visitors, students, businesspeople, and families.

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A Major Convenience Upgrade for Qatari Travellers

Before this policy change, Qatari nationals needed to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), a process that could take several weeks and required extensive documentation and screening. With the new update, travellers from Qatar can access Canada through a much faster, more streamlined system.

The eTA application is quick, inexpensive, and user-friendly. Most approvals are granted within minutes, requiring only:

• A valid passport
• A credit or debit card
• An email address
• Basic personal and travel information

This new visa-free entry aims to strengthen tourism, trade, and bilateral relations between Canada and Qatar.

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Who Still Needs a Visa?

Qatari citizens who already have an existing, valid Canadian study permit, work permit, or temporary resident visa can continue using these documents until they expire. No additional steps are required unless their passport expires sooner.

For all new short-term travel, an eTA replaces the visa requirement entirely.

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How eTA Approval Works

The eTA system is electronically connected to a traveller’s passport and remains valid for:

• Up to five years, or
• Until the passport expires

Travellers may enter Canada multiple times as long as their eTA remains active and they meet standard admissibility criteria at the border.

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Step-by-Step: How Qatari Citizens Apply for an eTA

1. Gather Required Information

Travellers should have their passport, a form of payment, and key personal details ready. Reviewing the instructions beforehand is recommended, as the form cannot be saved midway.

2. Complete the eTA Application Online

The process is entirely digital and normally takes only a few minutes to complete.

3. Pay the Fee

The cost is 7 Canadian dollars (approximately 18 Qatari Riyals). Payment is made immediately after submitting the application.

4. Receive a Decision

Most applicants receive their result within minutes by email.
In rare cases, IRCC may request additional documents or information within 72 hours.

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What This Policy Change Means for Canada and Qatar

The removal of visa requirements is widely seen as a move that will:

• Boost tourism between both countries
• Encourage more business and investment visits
• Facilitate family reunions and personal travel
• Strengthen diplomatic and economic ties
• Improve travel convenience for Qatar Airways passengers flying to Canadian hubs

This change also aligns with Canada’s broader efforts to modernize and broaden its trusted traveller programs.

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!