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 23 August 2024.
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
- Since June 2024, most visitors from countries like India, Pakistan etc. are not able to renew their Hayya Tourist Visa (A1). Many of them have tried visiting the Airport Immigration Office, but most of them were denied. Previously, most nationalities were eligible for a 30-day renewal. There has been no official announcement regarding this change.
- Many applicants have reported delays in Hayya Tourist visa approvals. Many of them have been waiting for 2-3 weeks. It is recommended that you do not book your flight tickets until your visa is fully approved.
- A1 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).
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. 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 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. If you are a registered user, you may have to verify your email using the OTP sent to your email.
Step 4: Click on “Start the Hayya Journey”
You can find this on the top right (near your name). You can also click on “Start Here” button on the right.
- 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), select “Apply for A1 visa”.
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. 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 2024, the average approval time is less than a week. However there may be delays in some cases.
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
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)
Many travellers have successfully extended their Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) for an extra 30 days. Here is how you can do it online. Note that since June 2024, this is not working for most visitors.
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
If you are eligible, 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: 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.
Hello
For haya Tourist Visa(A1) for Indian National should take accommodation through Discovery Qatar is mandatory? or else any other site Hotel booking is ok
Hi Prasad, Normal hotel booking or “Host Family And Friends” is also accepted for Tourist Visa. Indians who applied recently have got approvals.
Hi Ahmad,
Did you get the visa for your wife?
Hello,
Can Indian Nationals travel with A1 visa and having only host accommodation.
Thank you.
Hi Ruby, Yes, those who applied recently were approved.
Hi,
The guide states the processing time is usually within 48 hrs and in rare cases up to a week. I applied for my A1 tourist visa and it came within 48hrs but for my wife it is still outstanding since 26Aug…is this normal? Can someone help please?
Hi Ahmed, 48 hours is the average (as per Hayya officials). We have seen that for most people it gets approved within this period. It seems your wife’s case is taking much longer than usual (already two weeks). Perhaps you should contact the Hayya Helpline at [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hello DG Team.
To Extend the Tourist Visa (A1) for Iranian citizens, is it necessary to rebook the Discover Qatar Hotel?
Hi Hadi, You can try to extend on the MOI portal (Visa Extension Service page). Sometimes it works without any additional requirement.
Myanmar citizen can come with hayya??
Hi Maung, Yes, you can apply for Hayya Tourist Visa.
My father’s Hayya Tourist Entry Permit is expiring on 22nd Sep. He is supposed to enter before this date but can’t due to some reasons.
Can we renew it after Hayya Tourist Permit Entry date surpasses.
Hi Wiki, You need to contact Hayya Customer Service [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hi i have applied for my mother’s A1 tourist visa and got approved. She got the confirmation email in PDF format. Now the issue is that I forgot my HAYYA app login information, but she has the pdf copy. so is there any issue?
Hi Abdur Rehman, If she has the Entry Permit, that is enough to travel. If you want you can try resetting Hayya password or contacting helpline.
Hi, I got A1 Visa for my father yesterday(3/9/23) and its shown last entry date by 2/12/2023,so that means he can entry before 2/12/2023 right ? ,because I read somewhere that A1 validity is for 1 month to enter ,
Whether they changed now to 3 months ?
Hi Vishnu, Most applicants are getting 3 months now (we have updated the article).
Hi Vishnu,
When did you apply for the Hayya A1 tourist Visit. how many days did it take for the approval. Is the accommodation Hosted by family and friends accepted for Indian nationals.
Hi,
I have two queries.
1) Whether my parents of age above 65 can come in Hayya A1 Visit visa to Qatar and can be extended for one more month?
2) Is there any other Qatar Visa category in which I can bring my parents whose age is above 65?
Hi JeyJay, (1) Yes, you can apply for Tourist Visa and nowadays 30 days extension is possible.
(2) No, Family Visit Visa will not be approved for those above 60 and Hayya With Me is suspended for Indians.
Any update for Hayya With Me for Indians. Any chance of restarting this again for Indians
Hi Syed, No update. Hayya Tourist Visa is possible (30+30 days extension).
Hi, I have two queries.
1) I am planning to bring my parents of age above 65 in Hayya A1 Tourist visa. will it be approved? Can their visa can be extended for extra month?
2) Is there any other visa in which the guest of age above 65 can visit Qatar and stay for more than 2 months?
Hi JeyJay, (1) Yes, you can apply for Tourist Visa and nowadays 30 days extension is possible.
(2) No, Family Visit Visa will not be approved for those above 60 and Hayya With Me is suspended for Indians.
Good day, i am currently working in the united kingdom with a working visa and i am planning to visit doha qatar. What are those requirements!
Hi Jenny, If you are a UK citizen, you can get visa on arrival. If you are not UK citizen, you can apply for Tourist Visa (A1) as explained here. Since you have a UK work permit you can can also apply for ETA Visa (A3): https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-eta-visa-online/
Within 10 minutes approval after submission. and validity is 30 days.
I entered the wrong email address for the guest in the guest invitation, Now the guest didn’t accommodation approval copy or email. A1 visa is approved.
is it mandatory to have an accommodation copy/email to Traval?
Hi Prakash, Confirmation of accommodation is a requirement to travel. There is a chance that the airline may deny boarding during check-in. Please contact Hayya helpline or try to invite the guest again (as a new guest).
Is a1 tourist visa is multiple entry?
Hi Florinda, It is single entry.
Hi ,DG team
my guest arrived in tourist a1 visa (India) and got 30 days visa stamped in passport .
also when in tried to extend visit visa in MOI website it gives further 30 days more validity. (Usually tourist visa single entry with 30 days only)
will it be reliable and shall I revise the travel plan as per extension.(2 months )
Hi Ragul, Nowadays A1 Tourist Visa extension is possible for 30 more days (we have seen many cases and updated our article). If in doubt you can confirm this with Qatar Government Helpline at 109 or [email protected].
Hi team, yesterday I got approval tourist visa A1. unfortunately I didn’t received PDF copy through mail since their is issue to receive attachment in mails. Approval is showing on hayya app and received mail also for approval.
Is it okay to board flight with haya digital app approved entry visa or need to bring pdf copy only which suppose to receive through mail.
Thanks.
Hi prashant, how many days did it take to get the Visa A1 approval. And what is the validy for the tourist visa to enter Qatar.
Hi Prashant, This will depend upon your airline. Sometimes the airline staff will insist on the Hayya Entry Permit with QR code. You can request Hayya helpline to resend the Entry Permit. If there is no way to get it you can try with the app.
Hi team,
My parent’s Hayya A1 visa is approved, but my mother holds ECR passport. Will there be any issue at immigration while entering Qatar?
Thanks
Hi Syed, ECR restriction is only for work visa. Hayya A1 is tourist visa. So no issues.
Hi Syed,
When did you apply for A1 Tourist visa and how many days it take to get the approval.
It got approved in less than few hours.
Hi Syed, Thanks for the update.
Hi Syed, Thank you for your info. Are you an Indian national
Yes, Indian national @VJY
Hi DG,
Haya tourist visa A1, accomodations booking will be through regular hotel or discover booking??
Thanks
Hi Syed, If the visitor is from India or Pakistan, please check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or or (+974) 4441 2022. Sometimes they are asking DQ hotel booking.
If my sister living in qatar i will come for visiting do i still need to provide accommodation details? Does Address details document from
Metrash is acceptable? How long is the duration to stay if i’m malaysia resident ? Is better to enter via hayya or voa?
Hi Hani, If you are citizen of Malaysia you can get visa on arrival by providing accommodation details. If you are applying Tourist Visa in advance, your sister can invite you to stay with her. She can do this by downloading National Address from Metrash and uploading this to her Hayya account.
Hello, how do I get family visit visa for my father in law who is 70 years old? How long is the duration of stay in Qatar if he gets the visa?
Hi Shital, Currently they don’t issue family visit visa for those above 60 years.