Qatar Visa Policy

The visa policy of Qatar outlines the requirements and regulations governing entry into the country. With a focus on promoting tourism, business, and education, Qatar offers various visa types to accommodate different visitors’ needs. Eligibility, documentation, and application procedures vary depending on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of visit. 

The Qatar visa policy is subject to specific details and clauses that applicants must be aware of. Medical checks, including physical examinations and tests for infectious diseases, are mandatory for certain visa types. Compliance with local laws, customs, and dress codes is expected during the visit. Read on to learn more about visa policy for Qatar.

Qatar Visa Types

The following types of visas are offered by Qatar: 

Tourist Visas (Online and On Arrival)

Qatar offers both online and on-arrival tourist visas. Travelers can apply for a tourist visa online through the Qatar e-Visa Portal or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. These visas allow visitors to explore Qatar for a specified duration, typically up to 30 days, and can be extended if needed. 

Tourist Visa via Qatar Hotels or Airways

Some hotels and airlines in Qatar can sponsor tourist visas for their guests or passengers. Travelers can coordinate with their chosen hotel or airline to arrange for the sponsorship and issuance of the tourist visa. 

Joint Tourist Visa (for Oman and Qatar)

Qatar and Oman offer a joint tourist visa, known as the "Visit Visa Between Qatar and Oman." This visa allows travelers to visit both countries using a single visa, facilitating tourism between the two nations. 

Tourist visas allow for stays of up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension under certain circumstances. Visitors should possess a passport valid for at least six months from the entry date.

Entering Qatar as an Employee

Individuals entering Qatar for employment purposes must obtain a work visa. This visa is typically sponsored by a Qatari employer or company and permits the individual to live and work in Qatar for the specified employment period. Employment on a tourist visa is prohibited, requiring a separate work visa.

Business Visas (72-hour Business Visa versus Regular Business Visa)

Qatar offers different types of business visas. The Qatari 72-hour business visa allows short-term stays for business-related activities, such as meetings or conferences, for a maximum duration of 72 hours. The regular business visa is suitable for long business trips and permits individuals to engage in commercial activities during their stay. 

Visa for Investors

Qatar provides specific visa options for investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses or invest in the country. These visas may have additional requirements, such as meeting certain investment criteria and obtaining sponsorship from a Qatari entity. 

Visa for GCC Residents

GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) residents, including nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, can visit Qatar using a simplified visa process. They can apply for an eVisa or obtain a visa on arrival, depending on their nationality. 

Family Visit Visa

Family members of Qatari citizens or residents can apply for a family visit visa to visit their relatives in Qatar. The sponsor, who is usually a Qatari citizen or resident, must initiate the visa process and provide the necessary documentation to support the application. 

Transit Visa for Qatar

Qatar offers transit visas for individuals transiting through the country on their way to a third destination. Transit visas allow travelers to stay in Qatar for a specified duration, typically up to 96 hours, and explore the country during their layover. 

It is important for individuals to consult the official Qatari visa authorities or contact the nearest Qatari embassy or consulate for detailed and up-to-date information on each visa type’s specific requirements, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. 

Other Types of Visas offered By Qatar

Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival, while others must obtain a visa in advance. Qatar also offers the following visa types: 

1. Visa for Newborn: Qatar offers a visa for newborns born to expatriate parents residing in the country. Parents can apply for a visa for their newborn, ensuring legal status for the child within Qatar. 
2. Real Estate Visa: The real estate visa is designed for foreign property owners in Qatar. It allows individuals who own real estate in Qatar to obtain a visa, enabling them to stay in the country for an extended period and manage their property. 
3. Return Visa: The return visa is applicable for individuals who have a valid residence permit but have stayed outside of Qatar for a longer duration than allowed. This visa allows them to return to Qatar without facing any penalties or visa-related issues. 
4. Official Visa: Official visas are issued to individuals representing foreign governments or international organizations. These visas are granted to government officials, diplomats, or individuals on official assignments to Qatar. 

Applying for Qatar Visa Online

Qatar provides an online visa application system known as the Qatar e-Visa Portal. This platform allows eligible individuals to apply for various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas, online.  The online application process simplifies and expedites the visa application process, enabling applicants to submit their documentation and pay the necessary fees online. The e-Visa is then issued electronically, eliminating the need for physical documents. 

eVisa for Qatar

Applying for a Qatar visa online through the Qatar eVisa service offers a convenient and streamlined process; however, it is important to note that as of the latest information available, the Qatar eVisa service is temporarily suspended.  

The following information provides a general overview of the online visa application process: 

1. Process: The online visa application process typically involves visiting the Qatar eVisa Portal and creating an account. Applicants would then fill out the application form, providing accurate and complete information. Supporting documents, such as a valid passport, passport-sized photograph, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and other documents specific to the visa type, would also need to be uploaded. 
2. Documents Needed: The specific documents required depend on the type of visa being applied for. Generally, applicants would need a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months, a recent passport-sized photograph, and any supporting documents as specified by the Qatar eVisa service. 
3. Fee: The visa fee for Qatar visas, including those applied for online, can vary based on the visa type, duration, and nationality of the applicant. The fee must be paid during the application process, and accepted payment methods are typically outlined on the Qatar eVisa Portal. 

Qatar’s Hayya Portal: New Online Tourist Visa Application Platform

Visit Qatar, the nation’s official tourism platform has recently announced the relaunch of the Hayya Portal as the country’s official online visa platform for tourists. This development allows individuals of all nationalities to easily apply for a 30-day tourist visa to Qatar.

Furthermore, the portal is now accessible for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries of all professions to obtain a tourist visa. Travelers requiring a visa to Qatar can effortlessly apply for a visa for up to 30 days through the Hayya Portal or the ’Hayya’ app, available for Android, Apple, and Huawei devices. 

Five New Tourist Visas for Qatar

The Hayya Portal offers five visa types: 

1. Tourist Visa (A1) - Hayya Tourist Entry is designed for tourists or those visiting friends or family in Qatar. 
2. GCC Resident Visa (A2) – For GCC residents of all professions. 
3. Visa with ETA (A3) - Applicable for those holding a valid visa or residency from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen, Australia, or New Zealand. 
4. Visa for Companion of the GCC Citizen (A4) – For GCC citizens traveling with a companion. 
5. ’Hayya with Me’ (c) - International Hayya Card holders from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar can invite up to three families or friends to visit Qatar. The card is valid until January 24, 2024. 

Eligibility Criteria and Required Documents for UAE Residents Visiting Qatar

UAE residents must meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for a visa through the portal. These include having valid residency of at least three months from the date of arrival in Qatar, confirmed accommodation, a return ticket, and a matching profession stated in the residence visa. Required documents include a valid residence permit copy, a valid passport copy, and a passport photo taken within 12 months. 

How to Apply for Qatar’s GCC Resident Visa on the Hayya Portal

Applying for a visa through the Hayya Portal involves four primary steps: creating an account on Hayya, filling in the application, submitting the application and paying the fee, and receiving the Hayya Card. The application process takes approximately two to five working days for approval by Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI). 

Visa on Arrival for GCC Residents

GCC residents of approved professions can still obtain a visa on arrival, as can citizens of 95 eligible countries. Nationals of India, Pakistan, Ukraine, Iran, and Thailand are eligible for a visa on arrival only if they hold a hotel reservation made through the Discover Qatar website and are allowed to stay in the country for 30 days. 

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for UAE Residents Visiting Qatar

To apply for a visa through the Hayya Portal, UAE residents must meet specific eligibility requirements: 

1. They must have a valid residency with a minimum duration of three months from their arrival date in Qatar. 
2. They are required to have confirmed accommodation. 
3. A return ticket is necessary. 
4. The visitor must travel from their country of residence. 
5. The applicant’s job title must match the profession stated in the residence visa. 
6. GCC residents, including UAE expats, must submit the following documents when applying for a Qatar visa: 
7. A valid residence permit copy 
8. A valid passport copy 
9. A passport photo was taken within the last 12 months 

To apply for a Qatar GCC Resident Visa on the Hayya Portal, applicants must follow these steps: 

1. Create an account on Hayya: Visit the Hayya Portal and sign up with an email address and password. 
2. Fill in the application: Select the type of visa (GCC Resident Visa - A2) and the purpose of the visit. Upload the required documents and enter personal, residency, and job title information. 
3. Enter accommodation details: Choose between staying with family or friends or having booked accommodation. Confirm the booking as required. 
4. Enter contact information: Provide a mobile number, emergency contact name, and emergency number. 
5. Submit the application and pay the fee: Review and submit the application, accept the terms and conditions and pay the fee (QAR100 or Dh100.49). 
6. Receive the Hayya Card: After approximately two to five working days, the applicant will receive an entry visa by email or through the Hayya app. 

UAE residents can bring their family members with them, provided they are also GCC residents, and complete separate application forms for each member. If a dependent is not a GCC resident, a separate tourist entry application must be submitted.GCC residents of approved professions or citizens of one of the 95 countries eligible for visa on arrival can still obtain a Qatar visa upon arrival. 

Do’s and Don’ts

It is important to ensure that all information provided in the online visa application is accurate and matches the supporting documents. It is also recommended to review and double-check the application before submission. Additionally, applicants should comply with the guidelines and requirements outlined by the Qatar eVisa service, including adhering to any specific photograph specifications or size limitations. 

However, since the Qatar eVisa service is temporarily suspended, it is crucial for individuals planning to apply for a Qatar visa to stay updated with the latest information from the Qatari authorities, including the reopening of the eVisa service or alternative visa application processes. Consulting the official website of the Qatari Ministry of Interior or contacting the nearest Qatari embassy or consulate can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Qatar visa applications. 

Qatar Visa Processing Time

The processing time for Qatar visas can vary depending on various factors, including the type of visa, the applicant’s nationality, and the volume of applications being processed. Here are some general guidelines regarding the processing time for Qatar visas: 

1. Tourist Visas: Tourist visa processing times typically range from a few days to a few weeks. It is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date to allow for sufficient processing time and to account for any unforeseen delays. 
2. Work Visas: Work visa processing times can vary significantly, depending on the complexity of the application, the verification of employment documents, and the necessary approvals from the Qatari authorities. The processing time for work visas can range from a few weeks to several months. 
3. Business Visas: Business visa processing times are usually shorter compared to work visas, as they are intended for short-term business activities. The processing time can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. 
4. Family Visit Visas: The processing time for family visit visas can vary, but it is generally shorter compared to other visa types. It typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and the workload of the processing authorities. 
5. Other Visa Types: The processing time for other visa types, such as transit visas, investor visas, or official visas, may vary based on specific requirements and circumstances. It is advisable to check the latest information from the Qatari authorities or consult with the nearest Qatari embassy or consulate for the most accurate processing time estimates. 

It is important to note that these processing times are approximate and can change depending on various factors. It is advisable to apply for a Qatar visa well in advance of the intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing and to account for any unexpected delays or additional requirements. Consulting the official website of the Qatari Ministry of Interior or contacting the nearest Qatari embassy or consulate can provide the most up-to-date information regarding the processing time for Qatar visas. 

Conclusion

Qatar’s visa policy encompasses a range of visa types to cater to different purposes of travel and meet the specific needs of individuals visiting the country. From tourist visas for leisure and business visas for commercial activities to work visas for employment and family visit visas for reunions, Qatar offers a variety of options. The visa requirements, application processes, and fees can vary based on the visa type and the nationality of the applicant. 

It is crucial for individuals planning to travel to Qatar to consult the official website of the Qatari Ministry of Interior or contact the nearest Qatari embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the visa policy and associated requirements. Staying informed and adhering to the guidelines will help ensure a smooth and compliant journey to Qatar.