Canada Unveils ETA For Qatari Citizens Simplifying Travel And Removing Visa Barriers: Everything You Need To Know About This New System

Published on November 26, 2025

Canada is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Qatari citizens, allowing Qataris to travel to Canada without the hassle of an in-person visa application. Canada is now offering travelers seeking to visit the country a quick, online, visa-approval process. With the eTA, Canada aims to foster even closer relations between the two countries. eTA is designed to facilitate travel for citizens of Qatar and is even intended to enhance the overall travel experience by allowing for more travel logistics flexibility. This article addresses everything travelers to Canada should know regarding the new eTA.

Cyclone Senyar, which developed over the Strait of Malacca, has intensified into a powerful storm, prompting weather warnings across southern India and parts of Southeast Asia. As of Wednesday morning, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the storm’s location over the Strait of Malacca, near northeast Indonesia. This weather system has already led to heavy rain and turbulent conditions across several regions, including southern India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with travel disruptions expected throughout the week.

The storm, which moved westward at 10 km per hour over the past six hours, has affected major tourist destinations and coastal regions, particularly in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Nicobar Islands. Cyclone Senyar’s path indicates that it is likely to move towards the Indonesia coast by late Wednesday morning, and after crossing the coastline, the storm is expected to shift direction and continue its erratic course over the next few days. The IMD has warned that although the storm is expected to weaken in the coming days, travelers should prepare for potential disruptions, including flight cancellations, port closures, and transportation delays.

Southern India Braces for Heavy Rain and Stormy Weather

Southern India is already experiencing the consequences of this intense weather system. Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and coastal Andhra Pradesh are among the regions most affected, with the IMD issuing warnings of continued heavy rainfall throughout the week. Tamil Nadu, which includes popular tourist destinations such as Chennai and Madurai, is expected to experience heavy downpours until November 30. Travelers to this region should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and possible transportation disruptions.

In Kerala, famous for its backwaters, beaches, and hill stations, the weather is expected to remain volatile, with heavy rain forecasted for November 26. Tourists planning to visit Kerala’s iconic sites, including Munnar and Kovalam, should stay updated on local weather reports, as heavy rainfall may lead to flooding and landslides, especially in the hill areas.

Coastal Andhra Pradesh, home to cities such as Visakhapatnam, will see rain from November 29 to December 1, with some districts likely to experience very heavy rainfall. These conditions are expected to cause delays in travel, especially along coastal roads and at local airports. Travelers planning to visit Andhra Pradesh’s coastal resorts or attractions should consider alternate dates or routes.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also on high alert, as Cyclone Senyar brings strong winds and heavy rain. The islands, known for their pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, will face significant disruptions, particularly from November 26 to 28. An orange weather alert has been issued for certain districts, and travelers heading to these islands for leisure or cruises should reassess their travel plans, as winds may reach up to 60 kmph, making sea travel risky.

Travelers Urged to Stay Informed and Plan Accordingly

As Cyclone Senyar moves through the region, travelers to affected areas are advised to monitor weather updates closely. The IMD has issued an alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, which could severely impact both air and ground travel. Flights to and from airports in affected regions may face delays or cancellations. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines and transport providers for the latest information before embarking on any journey.

For tourists in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, ferry services may be temporarily suspended due to the storm’s strong winds. It is recommended that travelers avoid non-essential travel to the islands until weather conditions improve. Local authorities have been taking measures to safeguard tourists and residents, including issuing safety guidelines for those visiting remote islands or exploring outdoor attractions.

For those already in southern India or Southeast Asia, it is advisable to stay indoors during heavy rain and avoid any activities that could put safety at risk. Popular outdoor excursions, such as trekking in Kerala’s hills or visiting open-air markets in Tamil Nadu, may be temporarily suspended during periods of intense rainfall. Tourists should also avoid traveling near rivers or coastal areas due to the risk of flooding.

Tourism and Weather-Related Challenges in Southeast Asia

In addition to the effects of Cyclone Senyar, a second weather system is also causing concern. A well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal and parts of southeast Sri Lanka and the Equatorial Indian Ocean is expected to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours. This system could bring further complications to travel in the region, particularly in Sri Lanka and southern India.

As these two powerful weather systems continue to influence the region’s climate, Southeast Asia’s tourism industry faces significant challenges. Destinations across Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern India are expected to experience disruptions in flights, ferry services, and ground transportation. Local tourism boards are working to provide the latest travel advisories and safety guidelines for visitors. Meanwhile, travel operators in affected areas may offer flexible rescheduling options to accommodate travelers impacted by the storms.

Safety Tips for Tourists in Storm-Affected Areas

For tourists in areas impacted by Cyclone Senyar, it is important to follow safety protocols:

• Stay indoors during heavy rain and avoid traveling near flood-prone areas.
• Monitor local news and weather updates, particularly in regions with high storm risks.
• Check with airlines, ferries, and transport providers for travel delays or cancellations.
• Follow local authorities’ guidance on safety measures, especially in areas with strong winds or flooding risks.
• If staying in coastal regions, ensure accommodation is equipped with emergency supplies and evacuation plans.

While the storm brings challenges for travel, it also offers an opportunity for tourists to witness nature’s raw power. As always, keeping safety a top priority is essential when exploring storm-affected regions.

Canada has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Qatari citizens, simplifying travel by eliminating traditional visa requirements and offering a fast, online approval process. This change makes it easier for Qatari travelers to visit Canada, enhancing convenience and flexibility while strengthening bilateral ties.

In conclusion, Cyclone Senyar’s impact on southern India and Southeast Asia has raised concerns among travelers. It is crucial to stay informed and flexible with travel plans during this period of inclement weather. With proper preparation and awareness, travelers can ensure their safety while navigating through these challenging conditions.