Latest news with #USVisaWaiverProgram
Time of India
24-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Where do Gulf countries rank among world's most powerful passports in latest 2025 Henley index?
The GCC nations have seen major passport gains, with the UAE ranking 8th globally and all six gaining access to China/ Image: FIle TL;DR UAE ranks 8th globally with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations, marking the strongest passport in the Arab and Islamic world. Qatar rises to 47th, driven by its entry into the US Visa Waiver Program , a first for any Arab nation, with access to 112 destinations. Saudi Arabia reaches 54th, gaining visa-free access to China, the UK, and Turkey, totaling 91 destinations. Kuwait holds 50th place with access to 100 destinations, but sees limited mobility growth in 2025. Bahrain and Oman rank 55th and 56th respectively, with access to 90 and 88 destinations, showing modest year-on-year improvements. All six GCC countries gained visa-free access to China in June 2025, enhancing regional passport strength. Gulf Passport Power: UAE Soars, Qatar Breaks Through, Saudi Steadies The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has rapidly transformed passport strength into a tool of soft power and diplomacy. The July 2025 Henley Passport Index ranks the UAE's passport 8th globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries, a historic rise from just 35 countries a decade ago, putting it close to traditional leaders like Singapore and Japan and marking unmatched progress for the Middle East . Other GCC states, like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, have also boosted global mobility, reflecting deliberate investments in bilateral visa deals and citizenship reforms . Historically restricted by political and security issues, GCC passports now symbolize national ambition and diplomatic flexibility, aligning with broader global trends toward mobility and interconnected economies. The region's rise in passport power underscores the GCC's diplomatic clout and international ambition. UAE: Passport Powerhouse of the Arab World At the top of the Gulf passport rankings stands the United Arab Emirates, now ranked 8th globally. Emirati citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries, surpassing traditionally dominant passports such as those of the US and Canada. The UAE's meteoric rise, from 42nd place in 2015 to 8th in 2025, marks the largest leap in the two-decade history of the Henley Passport Index. This remarkable progress is driven by an ambitious foreign policy focused on visa-waiver agreements with regions including the European Union, China, Russia, and Latin America. The UAE is the only Middle Eastern country in the global Top 10, placing it alongside established leaders like Canada, Estonia, and several EU nations. Its passport is now the strongest in both the Arab world and the broader Islamic world . by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Qatar: Strategic Breakthrough with the United States Qatar's passport has seen a significant leap in the latest global rankings, rising to approximately 47th place. The key catalyst behind this surge? A landmark agreement that makes Qatar the first Arab country to be included in the US Visa Waiver Program, effective December 2024. This agreement grants Qatari citizens visa-free entry to the United States for stays of up to 90 days, placing Qatar in an exclusive league of trusted international partners. This move further complements Qatar's growing diplomatic influence, marked by its role in hosting international mediations, global summits, and expanding relations with countries across Latin America and Asia. As a result, Qatar now enjoys visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 112 destinations, up from 108 in January 2024. This improvement has helped the country rise six spots in the rankings, from 53rd to 47th place globally. In recent years, Qatar's passport has consistently ranked in the mid-50s, with positions of 54th, 60th, 53rd, and 55th in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively. Now, it holds second place among GCC countries, with the UAE maintaining the top position. Saudi Arabia: Quiet Progress with Key New Access The Saudi Arabian passport continues its gradual upward trend, now ranking 54th globally on the Henley Passport Index, with access to 91 destinations without requiring a prior visa. A major breakthrough this year came in June 2025, when China granted Saudi citizens visa-free entry, followed by similar agreements with Turkey and the United Kingdom. While Saudi Arabia's progress hasn't been as rapid as that of the UAE or Qatar, its steady approach, pairing domestic reforms with active international engagement, is showing results. The expansion of electronic visa systems and a growing tourism sector have further enhanced the kingdom's global standing. This year alone, Saudi Arabia added four new visa-free destinations. The agreement with China, in particular, marks a significant step in strengthening the passport's reach and influence. Kuwait: Stable, but Not Accelerating As of 2025, Kuwait's passport ranks 50th globally, according to the latest Henley & Partners report, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 100 destinations. While Kuwaiti citizens enjoy full visa-free movement within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), global mobility growth has been modest compared to regional leaders. Kuwait's slower progress is partly due to the lack of major new bilateral visa agreements in the past year. Its application for Schengen visa-free access remains pending, limiting further expansion. In contrast, countries like the UAE, ranked 8th with access to 184 destinations, and Qatar have advanced rapidly through active visa diplomacy. This highlights Kuwait's steady but cautious approach to enhancing passport strength, resulting in a relative lag behind its more proactive GCC peers. Oman and Bahrain: Modest Mobility, Regional Strength Bringing up the rear among GCC nations are Oman and Bahrain, ranked 56th and 55th respectively, according to the Henley Passport Index for July 2025. Bahraini passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 90 destinations, while Omani citizens can access 88 destinations, up from 86 in 2024. Both countries continue to benefit from strong regional integration through the GCC framework, though their global mobility remains more limited compared to leading regional peers. The Sultanate of Oman, in particular, continues its upward trend in international travel rankings, rising from 65th in 2023 to 60th in 2024 and now 56th in 2025. Bahrain has also made progress, climbing four positions from 59th in 2024 to 55th in 2025, reflecting modest yet steady improvements in global access. Notably, both Oman and Bahrain were included in China's sweeping visa-free expansion in June 2025, alongside several of their Gulf neighbors, further contributing to their gradual improvement in global mobility. China's Diplomatic Play: Visa-Free for All Six GCC States In a significant diplomatic and economic development, China extended visa-free access to all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, in June 2025. This decision reflects Beijing's broader push to deepen its geopolitical and economic ties with the Middle East through enhanced mobility, tourism, and bilateral cooperation. Previously, only UAE and Qatar citizens enjoyed visa-free entry to China. As of June 9, 2025, China has included Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain in this expanded policy, offering visa-free entry for up to 30 days for purposes including business, tourism, family visits, and cultural exchanges. This initiative is part of a one-year trial program running from June 9, 2025, to June 8, 2026, and is expected to significantly boost tourism, investment flows, tech partnerships, and people-to-people exchanges between China and the Gulf region. It also positions China as a leading destination for GCC travelers and strengthens its strategic engagement in the Middle East. Intra-Gulf Mobility: A Regional Strength All six GCC countries continue to allow free movement of citizens across their borders, as per existing Gulf Cooperation Council protocols. This intra-regional mobility remains unaffected by global rankings and provides a strong baseline of movement for Gulf citizens, regardless of their international passport power. FAQ: Gulf Passports and the Henley Index (2025) Q. What is the Henley Passport Index? Ranks passports by number of destinations accessible without a prior visa; updated quarterly using IATA data. Q. Why is the UAE ranked higher than the US or UK? UAE signed 50+ visa deals, granting access to 184 destinations, more than the US or UK. Q. What is the US Visa Waiver Program, and why is Qatar's inclusion significant? Qatar is the first Arab country in the program, enabling visa-free US entry and boosting global rank. Q. Which countries offer visa-free access to all GCC nations now? China, Turkey, and Malaysia now allow visa-free entry for all GCC citizens, reflecting growing global trust. Q. Is GCC mobility affected by Henley rankings? No. GCC citizens enjoy free movement within member states regardless of their global passport rankings. Q. Are Saudi Arabia and Kuwait expected to rise further? Yes. Saudi reforms and Kuwait's Schengen talks could further boost passport strength in coming years. Q. Which Gulf passports remain the weakest in global mobility? Oman (56th) and Bahrain (55th) rank lowest in the GCC but continue gradual improvement.
Time of India
04-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
US Visa Waiver Program: All you need to know, eligibility, and how to apply
The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) offers a streamlined process for citizens of designated countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a traditional visa. This program allows eligible travelers to stay in the US for up to 90 days, facilitating easier and quicker entry for short-term visits. Who is eligible? As of May 2025, citizens from 43 countries are eligible for the VWP. These include nations such as the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and more. Recent additions to the program are Qatar and Romania, reflecting the efforts of the United States to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with these countries. Read more: 6 airports you'll want to visit even if you're not flying Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Banteay Mean Choay: AI guru Andrew Ng recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Aroun... Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Application process To travel under the VWP, eligible individuals must obtain authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This online application requires travelers to provide personal information, passport details, and answers to eligibility questions. An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the traveler's passport expires, whichever comes first, and permits multiple entries into the US. Passport requirements Travelers must possess an electronic passport (e-passport) with a digital chip containing biometric information. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the US, although some countries have agreements that waive this requirement. Restrictions and exceptions Certain individuals are excluded from the VWP, even if they hold citizenship from participating countries. This includes those who have traveled to or been present in countries such as Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011. Additionally, individuals with dual nationality from these countries are ineligible. Read more: Coming soon: Universal Studios' first theme park to open in this Indian city by 2027 While the VWP simplifies travel to the US, it is essential for travelers to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and possess the necessary documentation. An approved ESTA does not guarantee entry; US Customs and Border Protection officers have the authority to deny admission upon arrival. Therefore, travelers should be prepared to provide evidence of their travel purpose and financial means during their stay. For more detailed information and to apply for ESTA, visit the official US Customs and Border Protection website for all information. Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
28-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Complete list of 41 countries with visa-free access to the US – does India qualify?
8 underrated US cities for spring travelAs of April 2025, the United States' Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of 43 countries to enter the US for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa, for stays of up to 90 days. This program aims to facilitate travel and strengthen diplomatic ties with participating nations. What is the Visa Waiver Program? The VWP, administered by the US Department of Homeland Security in consultation with the Department of State, permits nationals of designated countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. In return, those countries must permit US citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes . List of VWP Countries (as of April 2025) The current list of VWP countries includes: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Invest $200 in Amazon without buying stocks to earn a second salary Marketsall Undo Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Israel Italy Japan South Korea Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal Qatar Romania San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom Notably, Romania was added to the program in early 2025, reflecting its compliance with the program's stringent security and information-sharing requirements. Read more: 8 underrated US cities for spring travel Is India included? India is not currently covered by the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Before visiting the United States for business or pleasure, Indian nationals must apply for a visa. Although India and the US have been negotiating visa facilitation, India must fulfill certain requirements to be included in the VWP, such as having low visa refusal rates, improved passport security, and reciprocal visa-free travel for US nationals. Travel requirements under the VWP Prior to their trip, citizens of VWP nations must get an authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). They also need to have an e-passport with a digital chip that holds biometric data. Importantly, if the visitor arrived via the United States, the 90-day visa-free stay also includes time spent in nearby nations like Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean islands. Read more: 12 blue-flag certified beaches to explore in India The US Visa Waiver Program continues to promote international travel and strengthen diplomatic relations with participating countries. While India is not currently included, ongoing dialogues between the two nations may pave the way for future inclusion, provided the necessary criteria are met.
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
US offers 90-day visa-free entry to 41 countries under Visa Waiver Program; is India included?
In a global move aimed at simplifying international travel and strengthening diplomatic ties, the United States continues to offer visa-free entry to citizens of 41 countries under its longstanding Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This program allows eligible travelers to visit the US for up to 90 days without the need for a visa, provided they meet specific criteria and secure an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval in advance. The policy is particularly beneficial for short-term tourism and business travel, offering a streamlined alternative to the more extensive B1 and B2 visa procedures. However, while many European and Asia-Pacific nations are part of this list, India is not currently included in the Visa Waiver Program. What is the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) The Visa Waiver Program is administered by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in collaboration with the US Department of State. It was created to facilitate mutual short-term travel between the United States and designated partner countries, reducing bureaucratic hurdles while maintaining stringent security checks. Under this program, citizens of approved countries can travel to the US for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa, provided their stay does not exceed 90 days. In return, US citizens enjoy reciprocal benefits when traveling to those nations for similar durations. US Visa Waiver Program: 41 countries eligible for 90-day entry as of April 2025 As of April 2025, the following 41 countries are part of the Visa Waiver Program: Europe: United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Brunei Middle East: Israel, Qatar Other: Andorra, Chile India excluded from US Visa Waiver Program: What Indian travelers need to know No, India is not currently part of the Visa Waiver Program. Indian citizens must continue to apply for a B1 (business) or B2 (tourist) visa through the standard visa application process at a US consulate or embassy. The decision not to include India in the program may stem from several factors, including reciprocity requirements, immigration policies, and bilateral security assessments. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Who is eligible for visa-free entry in the US While the VWP allows visa-free travel, not all citizens of participating countries automatically qualify. To be eligible: Travelers must hold a passport from a VWP country. The purpose of the visit must be for business or tourism. The stay must be 90 days or less. Travelers must apply for and receive ESTA approval before boarding a US-bound flight. Visa Waiver Program restrictions and ineligibility Even if a traveler holds a passport from a VWP country, certain conditions can disqualify them: Travel history : Recent travel to Iran, North Korea, or Cuba (on or after January 12, 2021) may render an individual ineligible. : Recent travel to Iran, North Korea, or Cuba (on or after January 12, 2021) may render an individual ineligible. Dual citizenship : Citizens who hold dual nationality with countries such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Cuba, or North Korea are not eligible. : Citizens who hold dual nationality with countries such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Cuba, or North Korea are not eligible. Such individuals must apply for a B1 or B2 visa through the regular process. Understanding the B1 and B2 visa options For those ineligible for VWP or from non-participating countries like India, the B-1 and B-2 visas remain the standard options for short-term travel to the US. B1 Visa : Issued for business purposes, such as attending conferences, consulting with business associates, or negotiating contracts. : Issued for business purposes, such as attending conferences, consulting with business associates, or negotiating contracts. B2 Visa : Intended for tourism, medical treatment, or visiting friends and family. : Intended for tourism, medical treatment, or visiting friends and family. B1/B2 Combination Visa: Commonly issued to allow a mix of business and leisure during a single trip. These visas do not permit employment in the United States. How to apply for ESTA authorisation Before traveling under the VWP, eligible travelers must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This system pre-screens individuals for eligibility before they board a US-bound carrier. Key points about ESTA: Not a visa : ESTA is a travel authorization, not a replacement for a visa. : ESTA is a travel authorization, not a replacement for a visa. Validity : An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires. : An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires. Multiple entries : Travelers can make multiple trips to the US, as long as each stay is less than 90 days. : Travelers can make multiple trips to the US, as long as each stay is less than 90 days. Application timeline: Apply at least 72 hours before departure, though earlier is recommended. Application process: Visit the official ESTA website. Fill out the online form with personal and travel details. Answer eligibility questions related to security and travel history. Pay the required processing fee. Await confirmation, which is usually sent via email. Entry to the US is ultimately subject to inspection by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers upon arrival, regardless of ESTA status. Security measures and program evolution The VWP has evolved to incorporate enhanced security protocols, especially after 2015. Travelers' data is cross-checked with various databases to detect security threats, criminal records, and prior immigration violations. The US Congress and DHS continuously review the eligibility criteria and participating countries. Nations can be added or removed based on changing geopolitical and security conditions.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Visa-free entry in US for 41 countries under US Visa Waiver Program: Is India on the list? Find out now
US Visa Waiver Program: Citizens of 41 countries from around the world can now travel to the United States of America (USA) without needing a visa for up to 90 days. This is possible through the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) program which makes it easier for tourists and business visitors from certain nations to enter the country. But the big question is—is India included in this list of visa-free countries, and what is the process to get a US visa? Let's find out. What Is the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP)? The Visa Waiver Program is a special travel agreement that allows citizens of selected countries to visit the US without a visa for tourism, business, or transit, for a stay of up to 90 days. This programme is meant to promote easier travel and international relations. To be eligible for visa-free entry in US under this programme, visitors must meet a few conditions, such as having an e-passport, a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval, and a return or onward ticket. Is India Included in the List of VWP Countries? No, India is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. This means that Indian passport holders still need a US visa to enter the country, even for short visits. Indian nationals must go through the regular US visa application process, which involves submitting documents, attending interviews, and paying visa fees. So, if you're from India and planning a trip to the US, you'll need to apply for a visa in advance. Which Countries Are Eligible for Visa-Free Entry in the US? As of now, the following 41 countries are eligible for visa-free entry in the US through the VWP: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom (UK). In March 2025, Romania is the most recent country to be added to the list. What Do You Need to Travel Under the Visa Waiver Program? If you are from one of the VWP countries and want to enter the US without a visa, you must: Hold an electronic passport (e-passport): This passport contains a chip that stores biometric details. Get an ESTA approval: You need to apply online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) at least 72 hours before your trip. Stay for 90 days or less: Your trip must be for tourism, business, or transit only. Have a return or onward ticket: You must show that you plan to leave the US within 90 days. Have a clean travel history: You should not have visited countries like Iran or North Korea after specific dates, and you should not have a criminal record or past US visa overstays. Important Things to Know About ESTA An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. It allows multiple visits to the US during its validity period. You must pay a fee and fill out personal and eligibility details while applying. ESTA approval doesn't guarantee entry—the final decision is made by US Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry. What About Passport Validity? Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the US, unless there's a specific agreement between your country and the United States that says otherwise. What Should Indian Travellers Do? Since India is not on the visa-free entry list, Indian travellers must follow the regular US visa process. This includes: Filling out the visa application form (DS-160), Paying the visa fee, Booking a visa interview, Attending the interview at the US Embassy or Consulate, Waiting for visa approval. Is India Likely to Join the VWP Soon? At present, there is no official update about India joining the US Visa Waiver Program. For now, Indian citizens must continue to apply for a US visa to travel for tourism, work, studies, or business. The Visa Waiver Program is a great option for citizens of eligible countries to enter the US without a visa. However, travellers must follow the rules, apply for ESTA, and ensure all travel documents are up to date. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
