Qatar scraps visas

Visa-free entry to Qatar with immediate effect for citizens of 80 countries, including the UK, was announced last week jointly by Qatar Airways, the interior ministry and Qatar Tourism Authority.

Citizens of the countries named will no longer need to apply or pay for a visa. Instead, a multi-entry waiver will be issued free at the port of entry on presentation of a passport valid for at least six months and a confirmed onward or return ticket.

Officials said the move was part of a series of measures Qatar has taken to facilitate visitor access and follows the issue last month of an e-visa platform to make applying for tourist and visitor visas easier and more efficient.

Qatar is also said to be considering further enhancements including a waiver scheme that would allow eligible visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation via a simple online application at least 48 hours before travel.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker said the visa-free entry announcement “places the state of Qatar as the most open country in the region – it is a momentous occasion”.

www.qatarvisaservice.com

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John Baxter-Smith, England

Interesting all EU countries allowed 180 day visa non Schengen except UK & Ireland