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 02 February 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
- Recently 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.
- 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).
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.
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. 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
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: 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.
Thank you. Is it possible for US passport holders to apply for A1 tourist visa ?
If she is eligible for A1 application, I’ll submit it on Hayya.
Currently we have noticed long and unusual delays on A1 visa application, so in case A1 visa is showing status pending, can she still travel to.Qatar and enter the State using Visa On Arrival?
Hi Rosy, US passport holders can apply for A1 visa, but they don’t have to do that as they are eligible for visa on arrival without any restriction. She can still get VOA if her A1 application is pending.
Hi, I have an applicant who is holding American passport and is an Overseas Citizen of India and Person of Indian origin. She is now a resident of India. Will she be eligible to apply for A1 tourist visa of A3 ETA (i understand that A3 ETA applies to US residency holders). Please clarify.
Hi Rosy, If she has a US passport she can easily get visa on arrival. Only requirement is return flight ticket, insurance and a local address. She don’t have to apply for A3 visa.
Hello doha guides team,
I had hayya with me (C) visa for my sister and mother fully approved. we booked tickets for next week based on that.
However, 2 weeks ago, i updated their renewed passport number and since then the visa is under approval.
I am checking for options here.
They are from India, hence, is it better to ignore this pending (c) visa and bring them under visa on arrival? In which case, we need to book the hotel. In their previous hayya they were hosted by me. Since its is pending, is it required to book discover qatar hotel?
Hi,
My sister , her husband and her kids are travelling to Qatar and has applied for the tourist visa A1 valid for 30 days, they plan to stay more than 30days so do they need insurance for 30 days first and we buy insurance again once we extend? And for how many more days can the visa be extended, maximum limit?
Hi Maggie, A health insurance (QR 50) is required if staying for more than 30 days. Nowadays you can extend A1 visa for 30 more days (gets approved for most nationalities). They may have to take another insurance (QR 50) during extension.
Hi , me and my wife has applied for Tourist A1 Via Hayya portal on 26.09.2023 and it is still showing pending, we recently came to know we are eligible for Visa on Arrival as we both have Indian Passports.Do we still get to travel to Qatar via Visa on arrival even if Tourist A1 is pending. Please clarify
Hi Akhil, You can use visa on arrival facility if you are eligible. Having a pending application will not be an issue. But please note that Discover Qatar hotel booking is required for Indian citizens to get visa on arrival.
Hi, I am Indian citizen holding Indian Passport. Please guide what would be the name sequence on the Hayya application.
Female
First Page of Indian Passport
Given Name – Rosy Cyril
Surname – Veigas
Last Page
Father’s Name – Gasper Fancis Dsouza
My visa is approved as Rosy Cyril Veigas Gasper Dsouza
Is this name sequence ok?
Hi Rosy, This should be OK. They only need a valid first and last name.
Hi rosy when did you applied
Hi, I had applied on 11 Sept 2023 and the visa was approved on 14 September 2023. However, now we made a application for another family member on 24 Sept 2023 but still the application is under process and pending.
Hi Rosy, Nowadays there is a delay for Tourist visa approval. You can follow-up with Hayya helpline at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hi,
How did you correct the same? When I applied for my mother, it came along with her First name (Given Name) + Last Name (Surname) + Father’s name.
Hello
I applied for Hayya Tourist A1 since 16 September and it’s pending for too long.
When will I get the response please ?
Hi Omar, Please contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Respected Sir,
Greeting of the Day
My name is Preetham Rayan
I Applied for HayyaTourist Visa A1 on 19th September still its pending can i know when it will get approve, i suppose to travel today.is it possible today it approve?
Hi Peetham, Kindly contact the Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
i called so many time they are says its under review…..
i sent mail alsorepley was under review
Hi Payaa, Unfortunately this is a standard reply. Hopefully it would be approved soon.
hello greeting…
I tried to extend hayya visa through online by renewal health insurance but it only show health insurance not find can u let me know another option how can I extend visa
Hi Firoz, Please contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or 800 2022.
Hello DG Team.
Is it mandatory for Iranian nationals to book Discover Qatar Hotel to issue a tourist visa (A1)?
Can any one advise me how long it will take to get approval for Hayya A1 for Indian passport holder.(Recent Updates Please)
Hi Abdul, Unfortunately there is not standard time. Most applicants are getting approved within a week, but some applications get delayed.
@Abdul,
It took me under 2 working days to get the A1 Visa approval.
@VJY any recent update about Hayya A1 Visa approval for indian passport holders.
That’s great! Thanks for sharing VJY.
Hi, I have a friend whose coming to Doha on Oct. 7 and he will exit the airport using A1 hayya visa and next day he will be traveling to Jordan for a week and will come back to Doha again to stay for 2 nights before traveling back to Philippines. My question is, can he reapply for another A1 hayya visa upon exiting Qatar when he travel to Jordan? Will he be allowed by the airline here in Doha to use his ticket (Amman-Doha) without a visa yet? (Because he can only apply after exiting Qatar). I hope my question is clear.
Hi Jay, Sorry, we cannot confirm if the second visa will be issued within a week (nowadays we are seeing some delays). Kindly check this directly with the Hayya helpline at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hayya Tourist Visa A1 applied on 21 Sep 23, Still on Pending Status.
Hi Abdul, This is normal. If you want you can contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
I just want to know for indian citizen need discover qatar hotel booking for A1 tourist visa and it can extendable or not for extra 30 days ( total 60 days)
Hi Abdul Raoof, Below are the answer as of today. We never know when the policies will change.
(1) Indian citizens do not need DQ booking for Tourist Visa. You can select “Host Family & Friends” or regular hotel booking.
(2) Yes, it is possible to extend for another 30 days (total 60 days).
Indian Passport holders can apply for A1 visa to Qatar? Is it mandatory for Indian passport holders applying for A1 visa to book accommodation through Discover Qatar website only? Can the hotel accommodation be booked directly with the hotel and we can use this hotel voucher to clear and entry permit to clear immigration?
Hi Rosy, Yes, Indian passport holders can apply A1 visa. Discover Qatar booking is not required for this. You can book any hotel directly and upload hotel voucher while applying. You can also select “Host Family and Friends” option if someone is hosting you. In that case hosting should be done first. The visa won’t be approved without accommodation.
Dear Guys,
They said that the processing time is 48 hours, which is not correct.
Take care before losing your money; furthermore, you will feel disappointed.
I will share with you my own experience with the tourist visa in Qatar so that you can ensure that they share with you fake information.
So first, I booked flights on Qatar Airlines to go on safari in Kenya, and I planned to spend two days in Qatar to do transit tours with “Discover Qatar”.
But after booking, Hayya didn’t check my application. They kept it pending for a very long time.
Then, if you try to contact them by email, they will send you an automatic reply. They will keep asking you to wait until you lose the flights.
Dears, I visited European countries like Belgium and Austria. They are very disciplined and on time. But a Qatar visa is not easy, and they are no clear.
Guys, if anyone needs to hear what happened with me, please contact me:
Phone: +201101641694
email: [email protected]
Dear Ayman, Sorry to hear about your experience. Regarding the processing time have only shared what the government officials are saying. They say average processing time is 48 hours. While we mentioned that, we have also added that in some cases this may take longer. From the experience of other readers, we have seen that most applications get approved within one or two days. Regret that it was not so in your case.
[Other comments you posted on our website were marked as spam due to sharing of email id. So we have manually approved this one.]
If my daughter will visit in Qatar using Hayya A1 on December can she apply the visa now?
Hi Marilou, Earlier the entry permit was issued for only 30 or 60 days (means you have to enter within that period). Recently we have seen some entry permits with 90 days validity. So we are not sure if they have changed policy. You can double check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or or 800 2022. If the validity is 30 days, it is better to apply exactly 30 days before travel.
How can we extend Hayya A1 visa online?
Hi Ashutosh, It is already explained in the article (towards the end).
Is discover Qatar hotel booking compulsory for Indians in A1 tourist visa?pls clarify
Hi Begam, DQ booking is not needed for A1 Tourist Visa.
Hi! For Philippine passport holder applying for A1 tourist visa, do I need to make the hotel booking through Discovery Qatar or I can use other sites like agoda or booking.com.
Hi Gee, Any hotel booking is allowed. Even you can have “Host Family and Friends” option.
Hi hayya A1 visa is open for pakistanis or not?
And how long it will take time in approval?
Hi Zainab, Yes, it is open. Average approval time is 1-5 days. Sometimes it may take more than a week also.