Qatar’s alluring mix of ancient traditions and modernity under the shining Arabian sun entices visitors. But before exploring attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art or the futuristic cityscape, you need a tourist visa to unlock the gates to this dynamic country. Getting one is now as easy as ordering a curry, with online applications and new visa-on-arrival options. This guide will walk you through the steps in applying for a Qatar tourist visa, including checking your eligibility and submitting your application.
Qatar Tourist Visa Requirements
Qatar has wonders for every traveler, but before starting your Middle East trip, you need to meet the eligibility criteria for a visa.
Passport Validity – Your Ticket to Anywhere
Your passport is your most vital travel document. To get a tourist visa for Qatar, it needs to be valid for at least 3 months after the date you enter the country.
Roundtrip Reservations – Planning Your Return
Although many nationalities can get a visa on arrival, people flying to Qatar usually need a return flight booked to apply for a tourist visa. Having your scheduled departing flight from Qatar confirms you are not planning an open-ended or one-way stay. You should have your roundtrip bookings ready before applying for the visa.
Securing Qatar Accommodations – Your Home Away from Home
Except for citizens of around 90 countries, people traveling to Qatar need confirmed hotel or other accommodations to get a tourist visa. You can book a hotel, apartment, or even a room in a Qatari home. This reservation requirement is easily met with planning. Submit a copy of your confirmed booking when applying for the visa.
Qualifying Countries Exempt from Accommodation Rule
Citizens from about 90 countries can get a Qatar tourist visa without pre-booking accommodations. The list includes visitors from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, etc. When applying, check the current list of exempt countries.
Health Insurance – Your Safety Net Abroad
Qatar requires all tourists to have valid health insurance before entering. This should provide basic coverage if medical care is needed during your stay. Many international plans meet Qatar’s requirements. You must submit proof of insurance when applying for a tourist visa.
Steps to Apply Qatar Tourist Visa Online
With the requirements met, you can now apply for a Qatar tourist visa online through Hayya. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Access the Hayya Portal
Go to https://www.hayya.qa/ to reach the official Hayya website. It is the only authorized platform for applying for Qatar visas and entry permits.
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Step 2: Create Your Hayya Account
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On the Hayya homepage, click the “Sign Up” button in the top right corner. Enter your email and create a password. Check your email for a 6-digit verification code and input it on the portal to finish signing up.
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Step 3: Start Your Visa Application
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After logging into your Hayya account, click the “Apply for Hayya” button in the middle of the page. This opens the visa application form. Select “Tourist Visa (A1)” from the dropdown menu under Hayya Visit Categories to start your tourist visa application.
Step 4: Choose Your Visit Purpose
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The portal will ask you to specify your visit purpose to Qatar – options include leisure, shopping, health, business, events, family visits, etc. Select the one matching your plans or choose “Other” to manually enter details if needed.
Step 5: Upload Your Photo
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You need to upload a recent photo of yourself. Check the guidelines for specific requirements – ensure it’s taken against a light background.
Step 6: Upload Your Passport Page
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Click “Browse” to select a scanned image or photo of the first page of your valid passport. Crop it so only the page with your details and machine-readable zone (MRZ) is visible. This allows the system to automatically extract the key data.
Step 7: Enter Your Residency Details
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Click “Browse” to select a scanned image or photo of the first page of your valid passport. Crop it so only the page with your details and machine-readable zone (MRZ) is visible. This allows the system to automatically extract the key data.
Step 8: Pick Your Accommodation
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Select your accommodation type in Qatar. If staying with a resident family/friend, choose “Family and Friends Hosting” after they’ve initiated the invite. Otherwise, pick “Other Accommodation” and enter your hotel or rental details.
Step 9: Add Your Contact Information
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Give your mobile number and an emergency contact number of a relative or friend. This is required in case authorities need to contact you about your application.
Step 10: Submit and Pay the Visa Fee
Thoroughly review all provided details before submitting your completed application. After approval, you’ll get an email payment link to pay the 100 QAR visa fee online or for free if exempt.
Step 11: Get Your Entry Permit
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After paying, you’ll receive an email with your approved Hayya Entry Permit and Qatar tourist visa. You can also access it on the Hayya app.
You can check and print your visa by visiting the moi.gov.qatar visa inquiry portal.
Qatar Tourist Visa Fees and Validity
Getting a Qatari visa is easy and affordable with the reasonable $28 USD (QAR 100) application fee.
The tourist visas issued through Hayya provide up to 30 days stay from your entry date, giving ample time to take in Qatar’s sites.
You can also extend your visa by up to 30 more days if your trip will exceed 30 days.
Qatar Tourist Visa Processing Time and Key Tips
What’s the timeline for getting approval for a Qatar tourist visa online? Here are the typical processing times and top tips for quick visa approval.
Standard Processing is Within 48 Hours
Per Hayya officials, the standard processing time for tourist visas is 48 hours after getting all required documents. The online system enables quick approvals.
Rare Delays of Up to 1 Week
In rare cases, approvals can take up to 1 week if more verification is required. However, over 90% of tourist visas are processed within the standard 48 hours.
Maintaining 3+ Month Passport Validity
Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after entering Qatar. Verify the expiry date before applying.
No Work Allowed on Tourist Visa
Importantly, tourist visa holders cannot work and are limited to tourist activities.
Conclusion
You now have what’s needed to apply for your Qatar tourist visa smoothly. Take your time and submit a complete application on Hayya today. Meet the requirements, get fast approval, and make your Qatar travel dreams happen.
