As of November 25, 2025, Qatari nationals no longer need a visitor visa to fly to Canada. They can now apply for a five-year electronic travel authorization (eTA) for just CAD 7. Discover how it works, who is eligible, and what has changed.
Qatar Joins Canada eTA Programme: A Major Travel Update
On 25 November 2025, the State of Qatar officially joined the Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) programme. This means Qatari citizens are now exempt from the Canadian visitor visa requirement when travelling to or transiting through Canada by air.
This landmark decision reflects strengthening diplomatic relations between Qatar and Canada while making international travel faster, simpler, and more accessible for Qatari nationals.
What Has Changed for Qatari Travellers
Qatari passport holders no longer need to apply for a traditional Canadian visitor visa. Instead, they can obtain an electronic travel authorization online.
Key benefits of the new policy include:
- eTA validity of five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first
- Multiple entries permitted within the validity period
- Each visit allows a stay of up to six months
- Quick approval process, often within minutes
- Application fee set at CAD 7 only
This change significantly reduces processing time and paperwork, offering a smoother travel experience for leisure, business, and transit passengers.
Faster and easier travel is now a reality for Qatari citizens. With a simplified online application system, travellers no longer need lengthy embassy procedures. The change strengthens Qatar–Canada relations by boosting tourism, encouraging bilateral trade, and supporting academic and cultural exchanges. Frequent travellers benefit from long-term flexibility, making Canada more accessible for short-term visits and repeated travel plans.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada eTA for Qataris
To apply for the eTA, applicants must:
- Hold a valid Qatari passport
- Travel to Canada by air
- Have a valid email address
- Use a credit or debit card for payment
- Apply online through the official government platform
If a traveller already has a valid Canadian visitor visa, it remains usable until its expiration date.
How to Apply for Canada eTA from Qatar
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official Canadian government eTA application portal
- Keep your passport, payment method, and email ready
- Complete the online form carefully
- Pay the CAD 7 processing fee
- Receive your approval via email, usually within minutes
Ensure you travel using the same passport used during the application. A new passport requires a new eTA application.
This policy is expected to increase travel between Qatar and Canada significantly. Major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are likely to see increased tourism from Qatar while business travel and educational exchanges will also rise. The initiative supports smoother people-to-people connections and global mobility opportunities.
Qatar’s inclusion in the Canada eTA programme marks an important milestone in international travel policy. For Qatari citizens, visiting Canada is now faster, more affordable, and more convenient than ever before.
With just a few clicks and a low-cost application fee, travellers can enjoy seamless access to one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
