Canada Lifts Visa Requirement for Qatari Citizens

In a major development for travel and international cooperation, Canada has officially lifted the visa requirement for Qatari citizens. The announcement was made on November 25, 2025, by Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab. The policy took effect immediately, marking a new milestone in Canada–Qatar relations.

This move opens the door for faster, easier travel for Qatari visitors, whether for business, tourism, or short-term stays, and signals a deepening partnership between the two nations.

Do Qataris need a visa for Canada?

As of November 25, 2025, Qatari citizens no longer need a visa to travel to Canada.
Instead, they must apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) when travelling by air.

An eTA is:

• Fully digital.
• Inexpensive.
• Usually approved within minutes.
• Valid for multiple trips for up to five years or until the passport expires.

Qataris who already have a valid Canadian temporary resident visa may continue using it until it expires.

What This Change Means for Qatari Travellers

Under the new policy:

• No traditional visa is required for Qatari citizens visiting Canada.
• An eTA is mandatory for air travel and can be completed online quickly.
• Existing visas remain valid until their expiration date or the traveller’s passport expires.

This makes it easier for Qataris to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, academic exploration, and short-term business trips.

Why Canada Made This Change

Canada’s decision reflects growing strategic cooperation with Qatar. The two countries have enjoyed 50+ years of diplomatic relations and are strengthening collaboration in fields like:

• Artificial intelligence
• Clean energy
• Agribusiness
• Critical minerals
  

By removing the visa requirement, Canada aims to help businesses, promote tourism, and encourage easier movement between the two nations.

How much bank balance is required for a Canada visitor visa?

Even though Qataris no longer need a visitor visa, many still ask about financial requirements—especially those preparing documents for study, work, or travel with family.

For a Canada visitor visa (for nationalities that still require one), the general guideline is:
CAD $2,000–4,000 per person for a one-week trip, depending on the cost of flights, accommodation, and planned activities.

Immigration officers mainly look for:

• Proof you can cover your full stay.
• A stable financial situation.
• Funds for additional travellers (family members).
• Evidence you will return home after your visit.
  

Because Qataris now use an eTA instead of a visa, they are not required to show bank statements during the eTA application. However, border officers may ask about your trip purpose and financial capacity upon arrival.

With Get In Canada travelling from Qatar to Canada is now easier 

With Canada opening its doors wider to Qatari citizens, this is the perfect time to plan your visit, explore business opportunities, or consider future immigration pathways. And at Get In Canada, we’re here to make that journey even easier.

As an authorized immigration office in Canada, we assist Qataris with:

• eTA applications
• Visitor travel planning
• Study and work pathways
• Permanent residency options
• Business and investment immigration
  

Whether you’re visiting Canada for the first time or exploring long-term opportunities, our experienced team guides you step-by-step to ensure a smooth and successful process.

Canada is now more accessible than ever — and Get In Canada is ready to help you every step of the way.

How to Apply for an eTA from Qatar to Canada

Qatari travellers can apply for an eTA through canada.ca/eTA.
You only need:

• A valid passport.
• A credit or debit card.
• An email address.

Most approvals arrive within minutes.

Canada’s decision to lift visa requirements for Qatari citizens marks a new era of mobility and cooperation. Whether for tourism, business, or visiting family, Qataris can now enjoy a smoother and more accessible travel experience.