Visas in Qatar

Getting a Qatar visa can be demanding, depending on the purpose, duration and type of visa sought. This article offers a comprehensive guide on Qatar’s different visa types, their requirements, application procedures and fee structures.

Whether you are applying for yourself or your family, understanding these details is crucial. Let’s dive right into it.

Types of Visas in Qatar

The visas in Qatar are generally classified into three categories, including the following types:

• Type C Visas (Short-Term Stay)

1. Tourist Visa

The tourist visa on arrival for Qatar can be issued to 80 countries through online application. The visa application can be processed through an employer, hotel or Qatar Airways. However, the remaining countries must obtain a tourist/visit visa before entering the country.

2. Business and Work Visa

Qatar offers two types of business visas: temporary and long-term. For a short-term business trip, a 72-hour visa can be issued, with an option to extend to another 72 hours, if needed. However, the long-term business visa allows expatriates to work in Qatar on a contractual basis. It is valid for up to three months and extendable depending on the company or institution they are working for.

3. Family, Relatives and Friends Visit Visa

A family visa for Qatar is issued to people whose relatives or friends are working in the country. Though the visa is valid for one month, the holder can extend it up to six months for immediate family members.

4. Visa for Sports, Cultural and other Events Participation

This visa is issued to people participating in Qatar’s cultural, sports or other events.

5. Short-term Education and Training Visa

Foreign nationals who want to visit Qatar for short-term education or training purposes can apply for this visa supported by their institution. However, the visitor should obtain a long-term (Type D) education visa if their stay is extended over 90 days.

• Type D Visas (Long-Term Stay)

Long-term or type D visas in Qatar allow visitors to stay there for up to ninety days (three months).

1. Investor Visa

The type D visa includes investor visas. This visa grants residential rights but does not allow expatriates to work. However, foreign nationals can apply for an investor visa by submitting their property ownership documents, thorough medical reports and a goodwill certificate.

2. Family Residence Visa (Sponsorship visa)

The sponsorship visa can be issued to expatriates’ family members (spouse and children) who would like to sponsor them for residence in the country. This visa differs from the family visit visa since it has no expiration date. The family can reside in the country for as long as they are sponsored by the visa holder.

3. Education Visa

Foreigners who wish to study in Qatar for the long term can apply for this visa, supported by their host institute.

• Transit Visa

You might need a Qatar transit visa if you travel to a country and have a layover at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport. You can spend up to 24 hours in or out of the airport with a transit visa. However, a transit visa cannot be issued for tourism or business purposes.

• GCC Resident Visa

Owing to the welcoming nature of the Arabs, Qatar grants a special GCC residence visa to its neighbouring countries, which is a visa on arrival. However, you must meet a few requirements before applying for a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residence visa.

This visa is valid for thirty days, with the option of extending it for another three months. The following countries are eligible to apply for a GCC visa:

• Oman
• Bahrain
• Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• Kuwait

How to Apply for a Qatar Visa?

Here are simple steps to follow to apply for a Qatar visa:

• Determine your purpose of visit: Before applying for a visa, you must determine your purpose for visiting and which type of visa you need.

• Gather the necessary documents: Though the document requirement may differ depending on the visa type, here’s a list of general documents you might need for visa application:

1. 1. Valid passport with a validity of more than six months.
   2. Completed visa application form.
   3. Copy of airline ticket
   4. Passport size photographs
   5. Proof of accommodation in Qatar (hotel or sponsorship letter)
   6. Proof of sufficient enough bank funds to cover your visit expenses.
   7. Document of travel health insurance.
   8. Other necessary documents include marriage certificates, institution support letters, employment contracts, etc.

• Submit your visa application: You can fill out and submit an online visa application form through the Ministry of Interiors website by attaching the required documents and paying the visa fees.

• Wait for approval: You can track your application on the Qatar visa service website using your application reference number. The visa is typically processed in 3-5 business days, notifying you via email.

Qatar Visa Requirement for Employed Applicants

Here’s a list of documents you need to apply for a visa in Qatar if you are employed:

• Employment contract, with original appointment letter and other details like designation and salary.
• Bank account statement for the past six months.
• Approval of leave letter from the employer
• Income tax return

Qatar Visa Requirement for Self-employed Applicants

• Proof of business licence (registration)
• Bank account statement for the past 6 months
• Income tax return

Qatar Visa Requirement for Students

• No objection certificate from the current institution
• Documentation of enrollment in the university

Qatar Visa Fee Structure and Duration

The cost of a Qatar visa depends on the type of visa you have applied for. Some visas are free, while some require a fee payment. Here’s a simple table to help you understand the cost and duration of a visa in Qatar.

FAQs

Are the Visa Applications for Qatar Currently Open?

Yes, Qatar accepts various visa applications; such as family visas, visit visas, and GCC residence visas.

Is it Possible to Work in Qatar on a Tourist Visa?

Yes, you can search for jobs in Qatar while on a tourist visa. However, after your job is confirmed, you must have an employment visa to start working.

Is Health Insurance Necessary to Visit Qatar in 2024?

Yes, as of February 2023, Qatar has made it mandatory to have travel health insurance to visit the country.

In conclusion, understanding the types, requirements and fee structure of visas in Qatar can help simplify the application process without any hassle. By following the proper application process, you can ensure a smooth visa process and enjoy your trip to Qatar!