Types Of Visas In Qatar: Explained
Embarking on a journey to Qatar, with its awe-inspiring skyscrapers and rich cultural tapestry, begins with one crucial step: choosing the right visa. Need to explore different visa options for Qatar? Worry Not! We’ve got your back!
From the bustling streets of Doha to the serene dunes of the Qatari desert, each type of visa serves as a key to different treasures. Our guide is designed to help you navigate the vast array of visa options, ensuring your Qatari adventure starts on the right note.
Let’s dive in!
Which Nationalities Do Not Require A Visa For Qatar?
Whether you require a visa to enter Qatar depends on your nationality and the length of your stay.
Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates do not need a visa to enter Qatar, regardless of the length of stay.
Which Nationalities Require A Visa To Enter Qatar?
Citizens of over 102 countries are eligible for a free visa on arrival entry to the State of Qatar. Allowable lengths of stay vary, and visitors are kindly advised to check with an authorised entity for the terms and conditions that apply.
Citizens or permanent residents of 17 countries can stay in Qatar for up to 90 days without a visa, with a total validity of 180 days.
Another 42 countries allow for a 30-day stay, extendable by another 30 days. Additionally, nationals from 37 countries can obtain a visa on arrival, granting a maximum stay of 30 days.
Nationals of eligible countries do not require any prior visa arrangements and can obtain a visa waiver upon arrival to Qatar, by presenting a valid passport with a minimum validity of three months and a confirmed onward or return ticket.
For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar:
| Andorra | Guyana | Pakistan |
| Australia | Hong Kong | Panama |
| Azerbaijan | India | Paraguay |
| Belarus | Indonesia | Peru |
| Bolivia | Iran | Russia |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Ireland | Rwanda |
| Brazil | Japan | San Marino |
| Brunei | Kazakhstan | Singapore |
| Canada | Lebanon | South Africa |
| Chile | Macao | South Korea |
| China | Macedonia | Suriname |
| Colombia | Maldives | Thailand |
| Costa Rica | Mauritius | United Kingdom |
| Cuba | Mexico | United States |
| Ecuador | Moldova | Uruguay |
| Falkland Islands | Monaco | Uzbekistan |
| French Guiana | Montenegro | Vatican City |
| Georgia | New Zealand | Venezuela |
For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 90 days in Qatar during either a single trip or on multiple trips:
| Antigua and Barbuda | France | Norway |
| Argentina | Germany | Poland |
| Austria | Greece | Portugal |
| Bahamas | Hungary | Romania |
| Belgium | Iceland | Serbia |
| Bulgaria | Italy | Seychelles |
| Croatia | Latvia | Slovakia |
| Cyprus | Liechtenstein | Slovenia |
| Czech Republic | Lithuania | Spain |
| Denmark | Luxembourg | Sweden |
| Dominican Republic | Malaysia | Switzerland |
| Estonia | Malta | Turkey |
| Finland | Netherlands | Ukraine |
What Are The Different Types Of Qatar Visas?
Qatar issues various visa types catering to different purposes:
- Tourist Visa: Allows a 30-day stay for exploration.
- Business Visa: Suitable for conducting business activities for up to 30 days per visit within a 3-month validity.
- Work Visa: For skilled foreign workers, valid for 1 to 3 months and renewable for up to three years.
- Visit Visa: Short-term visa for bringing family members, typically valid for one month, extendable up to six months.
- Family Visa: For foreign workers to bring immediate family members for a long-term stay.
- GCC Resident Visa: Facilitates easy travel for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens, valid for up to 30 days, extendable to three months.
Qatar Tourist Visa
A Qatar tourist visa offers an excellent opportunity for international travellers to explore the country’s blend of traditional and modern attractions. With a validity of up to 30 days, tourists can immerse themselves in Qatar’s culture, landscapes, and hospitality.
Qatar Business Visa
Ideal for those engaged in business activities such as meetings, conferences, or collaborations with foreign entities, Qatar business visas provide a convenient platform.
Valid for three months, each visit allows a stay of up to 30 days, facilitating seamless business engagements.
Qatar Work Visa
As Qatar seeks to bolster its workforce with skilled professionals, the Qatar Work Visa serves as a gateway for employment opportunities. With a validity ranging from one to three months, employers can renew permits via the government’s Residence Services portal, enabling longer-term employment arrangements.
Qatar Visit Visa
Designed for foreign residents wishing to host family members for a short stay, Qatar visit visas facilitate reunions and family gatherings. Typically valid for one month, extensions of up to six months may be granted under specific conditions, fostering familial connections in Qatar.
Qatar Family Visa
Catering to foreign workers in Qatar, the Qatar family visa enables the relocation of immediate family members for an extended stay. This visa type fosters familial bonds by allowing loved ones to join foreign workers in their new home country.
Qatar GCC Resident Visa
Streamlining travel for citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the Qatar GCC resident visa offers ease of access to Qatar.
Valid for up to 30 days upon arrival, with the option for a three-month extension, this visa facilitates seamless travel for GCC residents visiting Qatar.
What Documents Do I Need For My Qatar Visa Application?
While specific documents vary by visa type, common requirements include:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Passport-size photographs
- Evidence of accommodation (such as hotel booking)
- Vaccination certificate
- A negative PCR test
What Is The Application Procedure For Different Types Of Qatar Visa?
Application processes differ based on the visa type. Tourist visas can be obtained online or on arrival, while business visas are available through online applications.
Work visas primarily require employer sponsorship and visit visas can be applied for online or at Ministry of Interior service centres. Family visas can be obtained via the Metrash2 application or by visiting service centres.
GCC visas can be collected on arrival or applied for online in advance.
What Are The Qatar Pre-Entry Registration Requirements?
Before travelling to Qatar, passengers are required to complete pre-entry registration, which involves several steps:
- Account Creation: Passengers need to create an account on the designated website or app. They use their email address as the username and set a password, which they should remember for future reference.
- Identification Submission: Depending on their nationality, travellers must provide specific forms of identification. Qatari nationals and residents can use their Qatari ID numbers, while residents of other Gulf countries must present their passport numbers and nationality. Other travellers must include their visa or ETA numbers on the pre-registration form.
- Document Submission: Passengers are required to submit copies of their passport or visa along with a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of their arrival. Those who have completed their vaccine series must provide a copy of their authorised immunisation certificate, issued and signed by the appropriate health authorities in their country. Alternatively, individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 within 12 months can submit their recovery certificate, duly approved by their country’s health officials.
- Quarantine Arrangements: Passengers planning to undergo quarantine in Qatar must provide proof of hotel bookings at designated quarantine facilities. They are required to complete their quarantine period at the designated location. Health officials may conduct inspections during quarantine, and passengers must cooperate with any inquiries or tests.
Travellers need to stay informed about any updates or changes in Qatar’s documentation requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Who Needs The Qatar Pre-Entry Registration?
All travellers to Qatar must complete pre-entry registration within 12 hours of departure. Residents of certain countries can show their health status on their country’s app.
The registration process requires personal identification, a copy of the passport or visa, a negative PCR test, and, if applicable, proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
This registration helps expedite border procedures and informs authorities about quarantine requirements.
Is The Pre-Entry Registration For Qatar Visa Mandatory?
As of July 12, 2021, all travellers to Qatar must complete pre-entry registration. Failure to do so may result in delays, quarantine, or denial of entry. Understanding the visa requirements and completing pre-entry registration are essential for smooth entry into Qatar.
What Is The Qatar Transit Visa?
Qatar Airways passengers transiting in Hamad International Airport for a minimum of 5 hours are eligible to apply for the Qatar Transit Visa. It is free of charge, valid for up to 96 hours (four days), and open to passengers of all nationalities.
What Are The Types Of Business Visas In Qatar?
The Qatari government offers specific visas tailored for business visitors, addressing their unique requirements.
One such visa is the 72-hour visa, available upon arrival at the airport, and suitable for individuals attending brief business meetings, exhibitions, or conferences. It allows for a 72-hour stay, with the option to extend for another 72 hours once in Qatar.
Another option is the 30/90 Days Visa, designed for professionals engaged in short-term projects, such as consultants or contractors. This visa is applied for through authorized agents or businesses in Qatar, requiring a sponsorship letter for embassy submission.
The 30-day visa can be extended by 60 days, while the 90-day visa can be extended for up to 9 months, subject to meeting specific conditions outlined by authorities.
What Is Qatar Business Visa Fee?
Like with all visas, this one has a non-refundable fee. Paying this fee does not mean that your application will be accepted, but you must pay it; otherwise, your application will be rejected. The fee depends on the one you apply for.
- 72 Hours Visa fee is QR 50
- 30 day visa fee is QR 200 for each month you stay
- 90 Days Visa fee is QR 200 per month
These fees are payable in the equivalent local currency.
How To Apply Online For Qatar Business Visa?
The authorities have made it easier for applicants to apply for this visa online if they can’t make it to the embassy. Fortunately, VisaHQ offers applicants easy access in just a few steps. Here are the steps to take
- Visit VisaHQ
- Choose Qatar as your destination
- Choose your country
- Select Business Visa
- Complete the application form
- Upload the required documents
- Pay the visa fee with your credit or debit card
- Submit for processing
You may also submit your application to the Qatar embassy in your country.
The Qatar business visa requirements are as follows:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Company ID card
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Visa fee receipt
- Letter of invitation
- Cover Letter
- Hotel reservation
Additional documents may be required for this Qatar business visa aside from those listed above.
What Is The Qatar E-Visa And How To Apply For It?
If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival or visa waiver, you can apply for a Qatar e-visa. To obtain this visa, you’ll need to submit specific documents online.
First, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Qatar, with free visa pages and undamaged attached photos. Additionally, provide a recent photo meeting size and quality requirements.
Your travel itinerary should include a verified hotel booking and a return ticket. If you’re accompanied by someone, you’ll need an invitation letter, their Qatar ID and residence visas, copies of their passport’s first page, and their home rental contract.
Upon arrival in Qatar, submit your printed Qatar e-visa and travel itinerary. The visa fee for all nationals is approximately 100 QAR (about 27 USD).
How To Apply For Qatar Tourist Visa?
Visitors who plan to visit Qatar can get a Qatar tourist visa after completing easy steps. Such visas can be obtained through employers, hotels, or Qatar Airways, upon one’s nationality and the requirements of each.
The easiest way is through Qatar airways or Qatar airways and hotels. If you do not know how to check Qatar visa and want to get a visa through Qatar airways you need to Fill out the required information Here. After the application is accepted, pay fees and print the visa.
To get a visa via Qatar Airways and Hotels, download and fill in the paper form here, then submit it through the hotel manager or his representative then affix the following documents:
- Copy of passport of visitor that has validity for 6 months
- Copy of valid passport and the document that permits residency of the sponsor
- Documents describing sponsorship
- Pay required fees
What Happens If My Qatar Visa Application Is Rejected?
If your Qatar visa application is rejected, there’s a new regulation in place that you should be aware of.
Effective immediately, the Ministry of Labour in Qatar mandates that if an employer’s visa amendment application is rejected, they must wait for 20 days before submitting it. This rule applies to all types of visa applications.
Conclusion
As our voyage through the diverse visa landscape of Qatar comes to an end, you’re now armed with the knowledge to select the visa that best matches your journey’s purpose. With this clarity, the door to Qatar’s wonders stands wide open, inviting you to explore, work, or reunite with family.
Step confidently into your Qatari adventure, knowing you’ve made the informed choice that paves the way for a memorable experience.
Journey Defined!
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