Qatar Tourist Visa

Qatar entry requirements depend on your nationality, but the core documents and procedures fall into clear categories.

Core Requirements for All Visitors

Regardless of whether you qualify for visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or an advance e-Visa, you must present the following at immigration:

• Valid Passport: Must have at least 3 months of validity remaining from the date of arrival (6 months recommended by most airlines).

• Onward/Return Ticket: Confirmed flight ticket exiting Qatar.

• Accommodation Proof: Confirmed hotel booking (certain nationalities require bookings strictly made through the Discover Qatar portal) or an approved host registration if staying with family/friends.

• Health Insurance: A Qatari health insurance policy (approx. QAR 50) purchased through an approved scheme, or standard international travel health insurance covering Qatar.

Entry Categories & Exemptions

• GCC Freedom of Movement: Citizens of GCC nations (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE) travel visa-free using a national passport or ID card.

• Visa-Free / Visa-On-Arrival (90+ Countries): Passport holders from over 95 eligible nations receive a free entry waiver upon arrival at Hamad International Airport or land borders.

  • 90-Day Waiver: European Union citizens, US, UK, South Korea, Turkey, Brazil, etc.

  • 30-Day Waiver: India, Pakistan, South Africa, Australia, etc. (often extendable by another 30 days).

• Pre-Approved Hayya e-Visa Holders: Travelers who do not qualify for a waiver or prefer to secure entry approval prior to travel apply via the official Hayya Platform (hayya.qa).

  Special & Layover Tourist Options

  • Transit Visa: For travelers transiting through Hamad International Airport with layovers between 5 and 96 hours. Usually arranged via Qatar Airways or airport immigration.

  • Discover Qatar Hotel-Package Visa: Certain nationalities eligible for visa-on-arrival are required to book their stay specifically through the official Discover Qatar portal before arrival.

  General Entry Requirements

  1. Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months (3 months for GCC citizens).

  2. Health Insurance: Mandatory Qatari health insurance policy (approx. QAR 50 / ~$13 USD) registered with the Ministry of Public Health.

  3. Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservation or proof of host registration via the Hayya portal.

  4. On-Arrival Payment: Credit or debit card payments are accepted at immigration counters.

Official Hayya Tourist & Visitor Visa Types

Category CodeVisa NameTarget Applicant / EligibilityKey RequirementsA1Tourist Visa - General international tourists not qualifying for visa-free entry.- Valid passport (6+ months), confirmed hotel booking or accommodation host, return flight ticket.. A2GCC Resident Visa- Residents of GCC countries, regardless of their nationality.Active GCC residence permit (valid ≥ 3 months) in an eligible profession. . A3ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) - Travelers holding a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen Area, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand - . Proof of valid residency/visa from one of the specified countries. A4Companion of GCC Citizen - Individuals accompanying a GCC citizen or resident.Must travel with the primary sponsor or 1st/2nd-degree relative.

How to Apply for a Hayya e-Visa

If you need an e-Visa before traveling-

1. Register: Create an account on the official Hayya Platform (hayya.qa) or mobile app.

2. Upload Documents: Submit a copy of your passport bio page, a passport-style photo (white background), return ticket, and hotel booking confirmation.

3. Pay Fee: Pay the entry fee of QAR 100 (~$27 USD) once approved.

4. Receive Entry Permit: Download and print your Hayya Entry Permit to present at check-in and immigration.