Qatar Tourist Visa: Requirements & How To Apply (2023)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update was on 04 May 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 Qatar Tourist Visa.

Qatar Tourist Visa Updates

04 MAY 2023 UPDATE

According to the update on the official Visit Qatar website, India, Iran, Pakistan, Thailand, and Ukraine nationals applying for Tourist Visa (A1) must book accommodation with Discover Qatar.
Conditions For Tourist Visa
Conditions For Tourist Visa – Source: Visit Qatar

16 APRIL 2023 UPDATE

As a step towards boosting tourism in Qatar, three new categories of e-visa have been added to the Hayya Platform which will roll-out with immediate effect, Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker announced in a press conference.

Qatar Tourism Visa, which was suspended for several months, is now available through the relaunched Hayya platform. All you have to do is upload your documents, enter the required details and pay the visa fee (if applicable).

Qatar Tourist Visa Eligibility Requirements

Qatar Tourist Visa is available to nationals of all countries, except GCC citizens, who can avail 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). Citizens of around 90 countries are exempt from accommodation requirement (see the list below). According to Visit Qatar website, India, Iran, Pakistan, Thailand, and Ukraine nationals applying for Tourist Visa (A1) must book accommodation with Discover Qatar.
  • The visitor should have health insurance (as per MOPH guidelines).

Please note that nationals of more than 90 countries are eligible for a free visa on arrival in Qatar. Even if you are eligible for a visa on arrival, you can still apply for a tourist visa through Hayya portal.

Qatar Tourist Visa Cost

Qatar Tourist Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27). Citizens of 90 countries are exempt from visa payment (see the list below).

Qatar Tourist Validity

The Tourist Visa you receive through Hayya platform is valid for 30 days from entry date.

Entry Permits are valid for 30 days from date of issue, so visitors must enter 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 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 center the page.

My Hayya button on the Hayya portal
“My Hayya” button on the Hayya portal

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.

Hayya Portal Sign up and Login
Hayya Portal Sign up and Login

Step 4: Click on “Apply for Hayya”

You can find this button in the center of the page.

Hayya Portal Home Page
“Apply For Hayya” button on Hayya portal

Step 5: Select Hayya Visit Category

Choose the “Tourist Visa (A1)” category from the drop-down menu.

Tourist Visa on Hayya Portal
Select “Tourist Visa (A1)”

Step 6: Select Visit Purpose

You can choose from a range of purposes including leisure, sports events, job seeking, business meetings, weddings, shopping, medical care, cultural tourism, visiting friends, participating in conventions and events, or select “Others” and specify the purpose.

Purpose of visit on Hayya portal
Select your purpose of visit

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.

Upload Photo on Hayya Portal
Upload Photo on Hayya Portal

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.

Hayya Upload Passport
Upload passport on Hayya portal

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 name, and fourth Latin name 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.

Residency Information on Hayya portal
Enter your residency details

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. Otherwise you can select “Other Accommodation” and enter the accommodation name.

Note that for Tourist Visa, citizens of 90+ countries are exempted from accommodation. You can find list of countries below.

Accommodation Details  on Hayya portal
Select your accommodation type

Step 11: Enter Your Contact Information

Enter your phone number and emergency contact details. Finally, click on “Review & Submit”.

Contact details on Hayya portal
Enter your contact details

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.

Note that for Tourist Visa, citizens of around 90 countries are exempted from visa fees. You can find list of countries below.

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 Hayya To Qatar mobile app.

Hayya Mobile App
Hayya Mobile App

Hayya Tourist Visa Processing Time

The average response time is 48 hours when all of the applicant’s documents have been received.

Additional information

  • The Hayya Entry Permit is valid for 30 days. So applications should be made within 30 days before travel.
  • The passport should be valid for at least three (3) months from the date of entry in Qatar.
  • 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. You can also apply separately for children.
  • Visa holders are not allowed to work in Qatar during their stay.

Nationalities Exempt From Visa Fee

The following nationalities are exempt from visa fee requirement for Qatar Tourist Visa:

  • Andorra
  • Antigua & Barbuda
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bahamas
  • Belgium
  • Bolivia
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • Croatia
  • Cuba
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Dominican Republic
  • Ecuador
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Georgia
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Guyana
  • Hong Kong SAR
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Latvia
  • Lebanon
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Macedonia
  • Malaysia
  • Maldives
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Northern Cyprus
  • Norway
  • Pakistan
  • Panama
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Rwanda
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Seychelles
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Suriname
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Thailand
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine
  • United Kingdom
  • Uruguay
  • USA
  • Vatican
  • Venezuela

Source: Visit Qatar

Nationalities Exempt From Accommodation

The following nationalities are exempt from accommodation requirement for Qatar Tourist Visa:

  • Andorra
  • Antigua & Barbuda
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bahamas
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Bolivia
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • Croatia
  • Cuba
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Dominican Republic
  • Ecuador
  • Estonia
  • Falkland Islands
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Guyana
  • Georgia
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Guyana
  • Hong Kong
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Lativia
  • Lebanon
  • Lichtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxemburg
  • Macao
  • Macedonia
  • Malaysia
  • Maldives
  • Malta
  • Mauritius
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Northern Cyprus
  • Norway
  • Panama
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Rwanda
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Seychelles
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Suriname
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Turkey
  • United Kingdom
  • Uruguay
  • USA
  • Vatican
  • Venezuela

Source: Visit Qatar

Documents Needed For Travel Using Tourist Visa

While travelling using the Hayya Tourist Visa, you will need the following:

  • Passport
  • Hayya Entry Permit
  • Return Flight Tickets
  • Health Insurance
  • Accommodation Details

Currently COVID-19 vaccination and PCR testing are not required for visitors to Qatar.

Here is a step-by-step video guide about applying for Qatar Tourist Visa:


FAQ on Qatar Tourist Visa Procedure


How many days is Qatar Tourist Visa valid for?

Qatar Tourist Visa holders can stay in Qatar for up to 30 days in one trip.

How much does Qatar Tourist Visa cost?

Qatar Tourist Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27). Citizens of 90+ countries are exempted from this.

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 dependent along with me?

Yes, you can apply for dependents below 18 year 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 Tourist Entry Visa?

There is no age limit to apply for 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:

  1. How To Apply Hayya Visa For Children
  2. Hayya Card Photo Requirements
  3. Qatar Visa For GCC Residents Through Hayya
  4. Hayya With Me 2023: Complete Guide
  5. Hayya Card Guide & How To Apply
  6. Visiting Qatar: The Complete Guide

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110 thoughts on “Qatar Tourist Visa: Requirements & How To Apply (2023)”

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  1. Hi,
    I am from Poland and I would like to ask where I should buy the health insurence. I bought travel insurance – will it be enough?

  2. Hi DG Team
    As citizens of Iran, should we book discover qatar hotel or can we stay with family in qatar through the host family option?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Hadi, As per Visit Qatar website Iran (as well as India, Pakistan etc.) nationals should have DQ booking for Tourist Visa. However you can double check with Hayya helpline ([email protected]) before booking.

        1. Doha Guides Team

          For Hayya With Me, you can stay anywhere (including Host Family and Friends option). Discover Qatar is only applicable to Tourist Visa and Visa On Arrival.

  3. Hi,
    i am Aleem from Pakistan . I want to visit Qatar with my wife and two kids, My elder brother with family having Qatar resident since 15 years. I want to know with Haya portal i need Accommodation or i can stay in his house.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Aleem, Recently there is some new update that Indian and Pakistani nationals needs Discover Qatar booking for tourist visa. So please check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022. If they say it is OK, your brother can register on Hayya to host you.

  4. Hi ,
    My hayya application is rejected due to photo issue, is there any chance to reapply? I had click on resubmit however its not going through.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi John, Usually you can reapply up to 5 times. Change the photo and try again later.

  5. Leslie ann jaena

    Hi This is leslie I want to bring my daughter in qatar to study and she can stay with me what should I do I’m working beautician is that possible?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Leslie, To sponsor your family members you need a minimum salary of QR 15,000. If your husband is also working in Qatar, they may consider combined income.

  6. Assalamu Alaikum
    Iam Mohammed Arif from Bangladesh residents of Qatar, i want to bring my wife for 5-6 months, which visa is suitable for me please reply as possible

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Tamanna, ECR is restricted only for employment visa. As Hayya is a visitor visa, there should be no problem.

  7. Hi, I need to bring my daughter on Hayya Tourist Visa, After 1 month how many days should I wait to apply for a new visa? Is there any waiting period or can I apply for a new visa or extend the visa from Qatar?

  8. Hi,
    I am Indian Qatar resident, planning to bring my parents through Hayya Tourist visa A1. Do my parents need to book hotel accommodation through discover Qatar or they choose family and friends accommodation option. Please let me know. It’s not very clear for indians.
    Thanks

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Guru, Initially Indians who opted for family and friends accommodation were approved A1 visa. After couple of days, those who applied were rejected and asked to book on DQ. There seems to be some confusion about this. It is not clearly mentioned on Hayya portal. Kindly confirm with Hayya Support at [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022.

  9. Hi dear
    I’ m from Turkey.i want to visit qatar for 3 weeks.Do i get visa on arrival?
    I am planning to rent a suv car and travel and camp troughout all qatar in those 3 weeks.so what will be the requirements for my visit.
    thanks, shukran

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hello Harun, Citizens of Turkey are eligible for Visa On Arrival. You can also apply for free Tourist Visa through Hayya portal as explained above. For details about Visa On Arrival, check: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/
      Visitors can drive using their country’s driving license. Please speak with a car rental company in advance to check if they need international driving license.
      There may be some restrictions on camping in deserts (special permits are needed). So please check this with a tourism company in Qatar.

  10. Hi I am from Bhutan and resident of UAE, I plan to visit Qatar for holidays, Do I get visa on arrival? Or I have to apply for tourist visa.

    Thank you
    Yanglha

  11. Hello,
    I have a Philippine passport and a resident of France. I would like to inquire on how can I apply for a tourist visa? I’m planning to stay for 4 days in Qatar where my nephew is working.
    Thank you.
    Teresita

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Teresita, Currently tourist visa is suspended. Philippines is not included on the visa on arrival countries list. So please contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected]. You can also check with your airline if they can arrange transit visa.

  12. Yasmin montera

    Hi I’m from Philippines currently working here in Kuwait and I want to apply as a tourist visa from Kuwait to Qatar is there possible to process from here?? Ples I need answer 🙂Thank you

  13. Jeraldine Montejo

    Hello I’m Gigi, I’m a nurse and filipino residing in riyadh with iqama holder and wanting to visit qatar for a holiday tour for 7 days. Am i elligible for visa on arrival?

  14. Hi.
    I’m planning to visit my friend in Qatar on April 2023.
    I am working in KSA as Office Supervisor, holding valid iqama and Philippine Passport.
    Please let me know the process.
    Thank you.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Noel, Please call the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 to confirm your profession’s eligibility. We cannot confirm as your profession is not on the new list.

  15. Hello my name is Samar I have a friend he wants to visit qatar he his Afghan nationality but having German residence so how can he apply?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Samar, Tourist visa is currently suspended. Afghan nationals are not eligible for Visa On Arrival. If you have a Hayya voucher, you can get Hayya visa. Or else please contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected] to check if there is any alternative.

  16. have a good day,
    I’m Lyniette I working as a republic officer in cleaning services in dubai UAE
    holder passport Philippine. I want to visit my friend this coming of March 2023. I’m planning to visit going to qatar for only 1 week. Please advice me. How.
    Thank you

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Lyniette, Your profession may not be eligible for GCC Resident Visit Visa and Philppines is not included in Visa On Arrival countries. Please contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected].

  17. Hi,
    I’m Ahsan khan I’m working in hospital in dubai as an insurance specialist. I’m a resident of UAE with Indian passport, I want to visit my relatives in 🇶🇦 Qatar. I’m planning to go by car so can I get Qatar visa at border please advice.

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