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Important Advice Before Visiting the United States

    Visas

  • If you plan to travel to, or reside in, the United States, please refer to the U.S. Embassy in Doha’s website for specific information on how to obtain a U.S. Visa.
  • Ensure your passport is valid:  your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States.

     

    Health

  • There are no vaccination requirements for visitors to the United States. For information on US-based infectious disease outbreaks currently being reported, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and check out the CDC outbreak list.

     

    Traveling

  • Travel to the United States is safe for most visitors, but it is important to stay alert, especially in urban areas.  Make travel arrangements only through legitimate travel agents and web sites.
  • Try to avoid carrying expensive items while travelling.  Use credit cards to make most purchases and limit the amount of cash on your person.
  • Comply with U.S. laws, and abide by the international traveling airline rules. For a list of forbidden items, see the Transport Security Administration (TSA) website.
  • Keep your passport, boarding ticket and valuables in a safe place.
  • Do not in any circumstances give your passport or ID to anyone.

     

    Driving in the U.S.

  • A car is often your best way to get around the United States, but is often not necessary in major cities.  If you want to rent a car, research the rental company's policies in advance. You may need both your driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is an identification that contains your name, photo, and driver information translated into 10 languages
  • If you plan to drive when you visit the United States, check the driving rules in the state(s) you'll be visiting to verify that you can use your non-U.S. driver's license. 
  • The United States does not issue International Driving Permits to foreign visitors. You will need to obtain this document in Qatar before traveling.
  • If you are a foreign student coming to the United States to study, contact the University or College you'll be attending for information about driving.
  • The residency requirement for obtaining a U.S. driver's license is different in each state. Check the local department of motor vehicles in the state where you live to see the requirements.
  • If you are eligible to apply for a driver's license, you can only get a driver's license from the state where you live. Check with your state's department of motor vehicles to find out how to apply.
  • Once you receive your U.S. driver's license from a state motor vehicle department, you can drive in all U.S. states. Remember that the driving laws in each state differ and it is your responsibility to know and obey the laws of the state where you are driving.