The 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 17 November 2025.
Planning a trip to Qatar for leisure or sightseeing? Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a tourist visa before arriving. The good news is that the process has become much simpler since the relaunch of the Hayya platform in April 2023.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about applying for a Qatar Tourist Visa (A1) online using the Hayya platform. We’ll cover eligibility criteria, the step-by-step application process, visa fees, and answers to common questions—so you can prepare for your visit with confidence.
- Qatar Tourist Visa (A1) 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 (A1) Updates
- Tourist Visa (A1) 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).
Qatar Tourist Visa Eligibility Requirements
The Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) is for anyone who wishes to travel to Qatar for tourism or visit friends and family. It is available to nationals of all countries, except GCC citizens, who can avail of visa-free entry to Qatar.
These are the requirements to apply for Hayya Tourist Visa (A1):
- The visitor’s passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of entry to Qatar.
- The visitor should have proof of accommodation. This can be “Hosted by Family and Friends” or “Other Accommodation” (hotel booking or rented apartment). In some cases, you may be exempted from providing a proof of accommodation or requested to have your booked accommodation through Discover Qatar.
- If arriving by air, the visitor should have a return ticket.
Please note that nationals of more than 100 countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Qatar. If your nationality is eligible for visa-free entry, you don’t have to apply for a tourist visa.
Qatar Tourist Visa Cost
Qatar Tourist Visa (A1) costs QAR 100 (USD 27) per visitor. Some nationalities are exempt from this requirement.
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 (A1) 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 “Login”
This is located on the top right 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. If you are a registered user, you may have to verify your email using the OTP sent to your email.
Step 4: Click on “My Hayya”
You can find this on the top right (click on your name for the drop-down).
Step 5: Click on “Apply for Hayya”
You can see this button in the centre of the page, under My Hayya.
Step 6: See the eligible visa categories
- On the Hayya journey pop-up, select “Flying to Qatar” or “Driving to Qatar” (if using land border).
- Select your nationality.
- Answer the next questions. Click confirm.
- The system will show you the eligible visa categories based on your answers.
- If it shows Tourist Visa (A1), click on that.
- Read the information and click on “Apply for A1 visa”.
Step 7: Click on “Start the Application”
Read the information on the next page. The application autosaves as you enter your details, so any completed sections will be stored automatically. You can finish the form in one sitting or return to it later. However, each section must be completed in the order shown — you cannot skip ahead to the next part until the previous one is finished.
You will need the following:
- Copy of your personal photo, ID or passport
- Hotel booking or Host information
Once these are ready, click on “Start the Application”.
Step 8: Select Your Purpose of Visit
You can choose from a range of purposes including business meetings, convention participation, event participation, friend visit, heritage tourism, leisure, shopping, sports event, wedding party, etc. or select “Others” and specify the purpose.
Before proceeding to next step, please keep this information at hand:
- Digital photograph of yourself
- Valid ID (passport or Qatar ID). For passport holder the validity should be at least 3 months
- Details of your onward travel
- Hotel booking for the duration of your stay*
in case someone is hosting you, please be sure they register it on the portal. Then click “Next”.
Step 9: Upload Personal Photo
Click on “Browse for picture”. You can see a PDF guide showing the guidelines for your photo. Read the guide and select “I acknowledge the instructions for uploading my personal photo.” check box. Then upload your photo from your device. If it is accepted, you can see a message “The image is OK”.
Ensure that the photo meets the requirements such as a light background and sharpness. Only image file (.jpg or .jpeg) is allowed. Maximum file size is 2MB.
Step 10: Upload Your Passport
Click on “Browse for passport picture”. You can see a PDF guide showing the guidelines for your country. Read them and select “Continue” check box. Select the Passport type. For most people this will be “Normal”.
Your data will be extracted automatically. If the data is unreadable, you can enter it manually. If there is any missing field, ensure you fill them.
Re-check to make sure the auto-filled fields before proceeding, otherwise it might get rejected.
Enter your contact information – such as your phone number, emergency contact name and their phone number.
Click on “Validate your ID”. If the “Validate your ID” option is inactive after automatic data extraction, select. the “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. If you are not sure, refer to the PDF that was shown during passport upload.
Now you can see a message that says “Your ID has been validated!”. Click “Next”.
Step 11: 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 12: 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. Finally review and submit.
Step 13: 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. If your nationality is exempt you will not receive the payment request.
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
As of 2025, the average approval time is less than a week. However there may be delays in some cases. It is recommended that you do not book your flight tickets until your visa is fully approved.
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. So, if you are travelling as a family, your spouse should apply through their own Hayya account.
- You can add children below 18 years 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
Make your trip to Qatar unforgettable! Check the latest offers from Qatar Airways, Qatar’s 5-star airline, rated as one of the best in the world. With its reputation for luxury, comfort, and a wide-reaching global network, booking with Qatar Airways ensures an extraordinary travel experience.
How to Extend Qatar Tourist Visa (A1)
Step 1: Purchase a health insurance via MOPH website
To extend your Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) beyond the first 30 days, you should purchase a mandatory health insurance from any MOPH registered insurance company. You can find the list of approved insurance companies here.
Click on your preferred company and buy the insurance from the company website. The insurance fee is QR 50 for 30 days – for all companies. Once the purchase is completed it will be updated in the syetem (through passport number). Note that in some cases updation can take up to 24 hours.
Step 2: Go to the Visit Visa Extension Service page on the MOI website
This is available under Visa Services –> Visit Visa Extension.
Step 3: Enter the visa number or passport number
You can find the visa number on the sticker on your passport.
Step 4: Select nationality from the drop-down list
Step 5: Enter the verification code from the picture or audio
Step 6: Click on the “Extend” button
If you are eligible, the visa will be renewed for another 30 days.
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 Visa (A1(?
There is no age limit to apply for a Tourist Visa (A1). As long as you meet the listed requirements, you can apply for the Tourist Visa (A1).
Can I still apply for a regular visit visa or do I have to get a Tourist Visa (A1)?
Yes, several visa options are still available. Whether you should apply for a regular visit visa issued by the Ministry of Interior or a Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) depends on your nationality, travel profile, and the purpose of your visit.
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: 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 DohaGuides 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 am a Philippines passport holder and booked a flight with Qatar Airways Manila-Athens-Munich-Manila and have a valid Schengen visa.
Since I have a 14h 5m transit in Doha (to Athens) I decided to book one of their transit tours – TRANSIT EXCLUSIVE – DISCOVER DOHA – a 3-hour city tour.
My concern is the visa. Philippines is not included in the visa on arrival 95 countries. What would be my other option? Do I need to apply for pre-approved visa for a 3-hour transit city tour?
Thank you.
Hi Pia, Since Philippines nationals do not get visa on arrival, we suggest that you apply for a visa through the Hayya Portal.
Here are the details: https://www.dohaguides.com/how-to-apply-qatar-tourist-visa-online/
Since you have Schengen visa, you can select Visa With ETA (A3).
Hi, I have the similar scenario
what should I fill on accomedation? I just stay there for 8 hours so I don’t have any accomedation
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?
Hi Marta, Regular travel insurance is not accepted. You have to buy from any insurance provider listed on the Qatar MOPH website (Here is the link).
Tourist visa A1 are extendable
How many months can extend
Hi Mostafa, Until now there is no announcement regarding extension. You can contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022.
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?
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.
and one more question. It is the same for “hayya with me” or we can book hotels from everywhere?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hi John, Usually you can reapply up to 5 times. Change the photo and try again later.
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?
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.
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
Hi Mohammed, Hayya With Me is the best option. Here are more details: https://youtu.be/I_ZVDCIRyns
Ecr passport holder can come on hayya tourist visa
Hi Tamanna, ECR is restricted only for employment visa. As Hayya is a visitor visa, there should be no problem.
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?
Hi Nikhil, There is no announcement about renewal or applying for another tourist visa. Please contact the Qatar Government Helpline at 109 or [email protected].
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
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.
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
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.
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
Hi Yangiha, Tourist visa is currently suspended and Bhutan is not on the list of countries eligible for visa on arrival. Please check if your profession qualifies for GCC Residents Visit Visa: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-for-gcc-residents/. If not, please contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected].
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
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.
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
Hi Yasmin, Tourist visa is currently suspended. Please see this article for other types of visas available for Filipino citizens: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-for-filipino/
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?
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.
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.
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?
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.
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
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].
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.
Hi Ahsan, As Insurance Specialist is not on the list of professions eligible for GCC Residents Visit Visa, you may not qualify for that.
However, you can qualify for normal visa on arrival as an Indian citizen, but it will require a hotel booking through Discover Qatar (even if you are staying with relatives). You can find more details here: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/