Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 10 October 2023.
Are you planning to visit Qatar for leisure or tourism? In that case, you may need a tourist visa before entering the country. Fortunately, applying for a Qatar tourist visa has become easier than ever with the Hayya platform relaunch in April 2023.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Qatar tourist visa online using the Hayya platform. We will also explain the eligibility requirements, application procedure, visa cost, and other frequently asked questions about the Qatar Tourist Visa.
- Qatar Tourist Visa Updates
- Qatar Tourist Visa Eligibility Requirements
- Qatar Tourist Visa Cost
- Qatar Tourist Visa Validity
- How To Apply For Qatar Tourist Visa Online
- Hayya Tourist Visa Processing Time
- Additional information
- Documents Needed For Travel Using Tourist Visa
- How to Extend Qatar Tourist Visa (A1)
- FAQ on Qatar Tourist Visa Procedure
Qatar Tourist Visa Updates
OCTOBER 2023 UPDATE
Other Recent Updates
- Recently, many visitors were able to successfully renew their Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) for an additional 30 days. This can be done on the Ministry of Interior website, similar to the online extension for Visa On Arrival. We have explained the renewal process in this article.
- The Tourist Visa Entry Permit is now valid for 90 days from the date of issue (earlier it was 30 days). This means once your visa is approved, you have 90 days to enter Qatar. If you are planning to travel in the next 3 months it is a good idea to apply now (especially considering the delay in approvals).
- It is recommended that you do not book your flight tickets until your visa is fully approved.
- Earlier Visit Qatar website had lists of countries exempt from Tourist Visa fees and accommodation requirements. The lists have been removed now, which means you may have to pay the visa fees.
Qatar Tourist Visa Eligibility Requirements
Qatar Tourist Visa is available to nationals of all countries, except GCC citizens, who can avail of visa-free entry to Qatar.
- The visitor’s passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of entry.
- If arriving by air, the visitor should have a return ticket.
- The visitor should have confirmed accommodation. This can be “Family and Friends Hosting” or “Other Accommodation” (hotel booking or rented apartment).
- The visitor should have health insurance (as per MOPH guidelines) if staying for more than 30 days. This need not be purchased during the application stage.
Please note that nationals of more than 90 countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Qatar.
Qatar Tourist Visa Cost
Qatar Tourist Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27) per visitor.
Qatar Tourist Visa Validity
The Tourist Visa you receive through the Hayya platform is valid for 30 days from entry date. Many visitors were able to renew it for 30 more days after entering Qatar.
Entry Permits are valid for 90 days from the date of issue so visitors must enter Qatar within those days.
How To Apply For Qatar Tourist Visa Online
If you are interested in applying for a Tourist Visa through the Hayya Portal, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Hayya Portal
Go to the website address: www.hayya.qa
Step 2: Click on “My Hayya”
This is located on the top right of the page. Alternatively, you can click on “Apply for Hayya” in the centre of the page.
Step 3: Sign Up and Login
If you are a first-time user of the Hayya portal, click on “Sign Up” and create an account using your email address. You will be required to enter a verification code sent to your email.
Once you have created an account, login using your email and password.
Step 4: Click on “Apply for Hayya”
You can find this button in the centre of the page.
Step 5: Select Hayya Visit Category
Choose the “Tourist Visa (A1)” category from the drop-down menu.
Step 6: Select Visit Purpose
You can choose from a range of purposes including leisure, sports events, business meetings, weddings, shopping, medical care, cultural tourism, visiting friends, Expo 2023 Doha, participating in conventions and events, or select “Others” and specify the purpose.
Step 7: Upload Your Photo
Select “I have reviewed the instructions to upload my Personal Photo and Passport”. Then, click on “Browse Personal Photo”.
Ensure that the photo meets the requirements such as a light background and sharpness.
Step 8: Upload Your Passport
Click on “Browse for first page” and upload only the first page of your passport. Crop it so that the machine-readable zone (MRZ) is clear. Finally, click on “Save”.
Your data will be extracted automatically. If the data is unreadable, you can enter it manually.
Click on “Validate User”. If the “Validate User” option is inactive after automatic data extraction, select “Passport Type” as “Normal”.
The first and last names are mandatory requirements. Middle names, third Latin names, and fourth Latin names are optional. If your last name is not on your passport, you can add your father’s name as your last name. In that case, you should upload the last page of the passport along with the first page (to verify your father’s name).
Step 9: Provide Your Residency Information
Select your country of birth and your country of residence. Declare if you have a previous nationality. If you have, select the country.
Step 10: Select Your Accommodation Type
If you are staying with family or friends, your details should have already been added by your host in Qatar. Here is how Qatar residents can invite to host Hayya visitors.
Otherwise, you can select “Other Accommodation” and enter the accommodation name.
Step 11: Enter Your Contact Information
Enter your phone number and emergency contact details. Finally, click on “Review & Submit”.
Step 12: Pay the Visa Fee
Once your application has been reviewed and approved, you will receive an email with a payment link. The visa fee of QR 100 should be paid using a credit/debit card. Visa or Mastercard are usually accepted.
Once the visa application is processed, the Hayya Entry Permit will be sent to your email. You can also access your Entry Permit by downloading the “Hayya To Qatar” mobile app.
Hayya Tourist Visa Processing Time
Until September 2023, the average approval time was less than a week. However, as of October 2023, there is a delay in processing of Hayya Tourist Visa. Several applicants have been waiting for 2-3 weeks.
The reason could be the high number of applications during Expo 2023. If you have applied, you can contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Additional information
- The passport should be valid for at least three (3) months from the date of entry in Qatar.
- Since the initial visa is issued for 30 days, your return flight ticket should be within 30 days of entry, even if you plan to extend your stay. As the visa extension is conditional, your airline may not allow you to board. You can book a ticket with minimal or zero change fees.
- For each adult family member, a separate application is required.
- You can add children as dependents to your Hayya account, but all details should be filled in. You can also apply separately for children.
- Visa holders are not allowed to work in Qatar during their stay.
Documents Needed For Travel Using Tourist Visa
While travelling using the Hayya Tourist Visa, you will need the following:
| 1 | Passport | Valid for a minimum of 3 months from entry. |
| 2 | Hayya Entry Permit | You will receive this once your visa is approved. |
| 3 | Return Flight Tickets | Airlines require that return tickets should be within 30 days. |
| 4 | Accommodation Details | Clear address in Qatar. Invitation email and host details if “host family and friends” option. Booking details if hotel. |
| 5 | Visitor’s Health Insurance | Recommended. Only mandatory if planning to stay for more than 30 days. |
Currently, COVID-19 vaccination and PCR testing are not required for visitors to Qatar.
Travelling To Qatar
How to Extend Qatar Tourist Visa (A1)
Recently, numerous travellers have successfully extended their Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) for an extra 30 days. Here is how you can do it online:
Step 1: Go to the Visit Visa Extension Service page on the MOI website
This is available under Visa Services –> Visit Visa Extension.
Step 2: Enter the visa number or passport number
You can find the visa number on the sticker on your passport.
Step 3: Select nationality from the drop-down list
Step 4: Enter the verification code from the picture or audio
Step 5: Click on the “Extend” button
The visa will be renewed for another 30 days.
NOTE: If you face an error that “health insurance data is not found” you will have to purchase the insurance from an MOPH-approved provider.
Here is a step-by-step video guide about applying for a Qatar Tourist Visa:
FAQ on Qatar Tourist Visa Procedure
How many days is a Qatar Tourist Visa valid for?
Qatar Tourist Visa holders can stay in Qatar for up to 30 days. In some cases, this can be extended for 30 more days.
How much does a Qatar Tourist Visa cost?
Qatar Tourist Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27).
How much is the fine after the Qatar Tourist Visa expires?
The fine for an expired tourist visa in Qatar is QAR 200 (USD 55) per day.
Should I use only Qatar Airways for my travel?
You can use any airline to Doha. There are no restrictions on travel modes.
Can I bring a dependent along with me?
Yes, you can apply for dependents below 18 years old by adding their information on the Hayya application portal. Note that each visitor should have their own Hayya Entry Permit.
Is there any age limit to apply for a Tourist Entry Visa?
There is no age limit to apply for a Tourist Entry Visa. As long as you meet the listed requirements, you can apply for the Tourist Entry Visa
READ NEXT: How To Host Family And Friends On Hayya
Related Articles:
- Qatar Visa For GCC Residents Through Hayya
- Visiting Qatar: The Complete Guide
- How To Apply Hayya Visa For Children
- Hayya Card Photo Requirements
- Hayya Card Guide & How To Apply
- Hayya With Me 2023: Complete Guide
Copyright © DohaGuides.com – Unauthorized reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited. The information provided on this website is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, and travellers are encouraged to verify visa requirements and travel advisories through official government sources before making any travel arrangements.
Source: Visit Qatar, Hayya
Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DG Pixels, holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.
Hi
I’m Dr Abrar. I want to visit my relatives in Qatar. Im a doctor in UAE resident visa with indian passport. Im planning to go Qatar by car Can I get qatar visit visa at the border. And is it free or is charged
Thanks
Dr Abrar
Hello Dr. Abrar, You can get GCC Residents Visa On Arrival (being a physician). There is a QR 100 fee for the visa. You will also need health insurance (QR 50) which should be purchased from MOPH website. You will also need vehicle insurance, which you can buy at the border. More details are here: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-for-gcc-residents/
Hi my family wants to visit us in qatar my father is uae resident and mother and siblings are in visit visa did they come on arrival visa. Without hotel booking. Pakistani nationality.
Hi Khan, Your parents and siblings can come on a regular visa on arrival, but Discover Qatar hotel booking is compulsory for Pakistan nationals. You can read more here: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/
If your father’s profession qualifies for GCC Resident’s Visa, he can come without a Discover Qatar hotel booking. But your mother and siblings cannot come under that visa, as they are not UAE residents under your father’s sponsorship.
You can also call Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 for further queries.
Salem.
Je suis citoyen Algerien et le site pour les e-visas est momentannement suspendu.
J’ai pris des billets pour un sejour du 20 au 31 Janvier et bien sur avec une réseravtion d’hôtel.
Pourrais-je esperer une reprise du serviec e-visas d’ici peu?
Salutations
Hi Mohamed, There is no announcement about when this service will resume. You can call the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 to check about this.
Hi I’m a Bangladesh passport holder but I have a UK residence permit and want to travel to Qatar with my british wife for a one week holiday. We will travel from London to Doha with return tickete
I can see they suspended the online ETA
we had booked flight tickets already this month
Do you have a way for me to get the tourist visa?
Hi Arzu, Please call the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 to check.
hello thank you for your great information. i will just ask, my mother in law (filipina) is having vacation in Dubai right now. she wants to visit us here in Qatar as well. may i know what is the process? thanks. she is more than 60y.o. Should i apply for her as tourist visa? thanks
Hi R.A., Family visit visa has an age limit of 60 years and the Philippines nationality is not eligible for a visa on arrival. So it is better to apply tourist visa through a travel agent.
Thanks Doha Guide. Do you have any link to know where is the approved travel agency here in Qatar to process for tourist visa. Thanks
Hi R.A., Sorry, there is no published list. You can check with any travel agency.
Hi !
Is the online tourist visa service is available right now ?
Hi Christina, No, it is not open yet.
one of the requirements for requesting tourist visa is having a flight tickets, but problem me together with my family is planning to TRAVEL BY ROAD from Saudi. Since my profession in Iqama is Support Specialist which is not included in the list for getting visa on arrival, will it be enough to add only the hotel booking reservation, passport and photo as attachments when the application is now open? thanks. . .
Hi James, The online tourist visa service is now suspended. Visa on arrival for GCC residents is available. Flight tickets are not required if you are travelling by road. However, if the profession is not listed, you will be denied entry. You can call the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 to confirm your profession’s eligibility.
Dear James, I am also planning to travel to Qatar with my family by road from Saudi Arabia. The same situation applies to me as well, in that the iqama title does not appear on the list. A customer service representative confirmed that I could get Visa on Arrival after booking a hotel through Discover Qatar website (https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival/) and carrying a debit card or credit card with QR. 5000 balance(Statement copy required as proof). The entrance of my vehicle will be processed by Ehteraz (https://ehteraz.gov.qa/PER/vehicle) 48 hours before my departure. As soon as the permit is approved, I will need to pay the insurance fee through the website (https://www.qic-insured.com/Online/VisitorTpl.do).
Hi SM, Thanks for sharing your experience. Please note that in this case, they are issuing your visa on arrival based on your Indian passport. This may not be applicable to other nationalities (who not eligible for visa on arrival).
Hi, am Geoffrey from kenya and i have kenyan friend working there in Qatar and i was hoping to join him there ,how can i get my working permit visa from kenya and what’s the cost
Hi Geoffrey, To work in Qatar, you need to be sponsored by an employer. Once you get the job, the employer will bear the costs.
i am staying in qatar,i want to bring my family.how can apply for visa for my family.
Hi Naveen, If your salary is above QR 15,000, you can sponsor them with a family residence visa. If your salary is above QR 5000, you can sponsor them for a short-term family visit visa (1 to 3 months). Please read our guides for detailed information. In either case it is better to apply after the World Cup as nowadays approvals are very limited.
I wish to travel to Qatar on visit visa for two days from India for signing some documents. I am aged 72 and wish to visit from 17/10/2022 to 19/10/2022. How do I proceed? Can I apply for visit visa online?
Hi Moses, Please call the Government helpline on +974-4406 9999.
Dear Sir/Madam, I was trying to apply for an e-visa for our company president & 2 members of her family as they will be attending the FIFA World Cup in November. However, online visa application is suspended. Please advise on what to do so we can secure a tourist visa as we already had their FIFA ticket/airline ticket & hotel accommodation for the event. Need help please on this. Thank you very much!
P.S. I was informed they already have a Hayya card pass.
Hi Eunice, You don’t need a separate visa to enter Qatar during the World Cup. International fans who have approved Hayya Card will start receiving visas on their email next month. Just make sure accommodation details are entered in Hayya portal and the Hayya Card application is approved.
Dear Sir/Madam,
Thank you very much for the information.
Will check with their Hayya card pass details. Regards.
Hi Eunice, You are welcome.
hi im sherly i want to apply tourist visa in qatar on january 2023..what i need so that i can apply for tourist visa for 2 weeks only. thank you..
Hi Sherlyn, All visa applications are suspended from 1 November to 23 December. Only Hayya Card holders can enter during this period. New rules for visa application will be announced towards the end of the year.
hi, my daughter from philippines was chosen as a volunteer in fifa world cup, she was asked to book her flight ,so i am going to book for her flight, i am her mother, resident here in doha, but i dont have idea what type of visa she will be given,and how long she can stay here in qatar even after the volunteering period, i am afraid if i booked her ticket and she exceeds more than the validity date of her given visa? how long normally the visa validity? is it 3months or only 30days given to fifa volunteers?or can i get extension if ever?
Hi Chary, She will enter Qatar using a Hayya Card. Visa is not required. Please contact the organisers on [email protected]
how to apply qatar employment visa
Hi Muhammad, You need to find a job, and your employer will apply for the visa.
The online visa portal still says it is not online. When will this be available so requests for tourist visas can be applied?
Hi Aca, The tourist visa portal has been offline since 2020. From November to December 2022, only Hayya Card holders can visit as tourists. Most probably the portal would reopen in 2023 only. We will update this page if there is any announcement.
Hi is there already a possible month in which tourist visas will be available again?
Hi Maria, There is no official announcement on resuming tourist visas. From November to January, entry will only be for holders of Hayya cards (World Cup Fan ID). So you can expect some updates after January 2023 only.
Hi do you know how to apply electronic travel authorization? I am filipino passport with UK resident. I will have a layover 17hrs in Doha. Response is highly appreciated. Thanks
Hi Amor, Currently, ETA is suspended. The Philippines is not included on the visa on arrival list. You can call +974-4406 9999 and check if you can apply for a visa on arrival as a UK resident. If they say yes, you can search our website on how to do Ehteraz pre-travel registration.
Good Day
Can a minor (15 years old) get a tourist visa and travel alone to Qatar? He is not direct family but my daughters best friend and we want to have him come visit us here in Qatar in June 2023. How and where do we apply for the visa if possible. He is a South African citizen. We would like to get approved visa and not visa on arrival.
Thank you
Hi Belinda, Unfortunately, tourist visas are currently suspended. You still have a long time before June 2023, and there is a high chance the rules will change.
Hi how i can get visa for Uzbekistan
Hi Nafisa, Tourist visas are now suspended and Uzbekistan is not on the list of countries eligible for visas on arrival. You can call Government Helpline on +974-4406 9999 to check about the possibilities.
I will like to apply for working visa am a sieria leonia, i will like to know the procedure and how much is the visa fees.Thnaks
6 month turest visa apply Bangladesh
Hello Sir I’m Muhammad Yousuf From Pakistan
I need visit visa for 6 months
Hi Muhammad, Tourist visa is now suspended. You can try for a visa on arrival.