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.
Dear DG Team,
I am waiting in the past 3 weeks for cancellation of my application to reapply HAYYA A1 visa, which is pending for 2 months, still it’s not cancelled. I sent many emails and acknowledgments with good manners and with proper way, but it’s still not canceled. Can you please help me with any other option to cancel it.
HAYYA helpline team again only telling me to wait.
Anticipating for your favorable response.
Hi Ibrar, Unfortunately the only option is to contact Hayya helpline by phone or email. There is no other option because there is no physical office for service.
I applied for Hayya A1 and received the confirmation within a day, there were no Visa fees, I didn’t pay QAR 100.
Hi Salman, Some nationalities are exempted from visa fee.
Hi Doha Guides Team,
While extending Hayya tourist visa I got error about health insurance then I purchased health insurance for additional 1 month but it is still showing same error & not getting extended. Please guide what should I do on this?
Hi Shahrukh, The health insurance needs to be updated in the system. Usually takes around 24 hours. Please retry later.
Hi
I have applied for my Father and Mother ‘ s A1 visa on Sept. While my fathers visa got approved but mother’s visa is still pending in hayya platform. According to the 90 day entry rule last entry date of my father is 6th Dec. But without my mother’s approved visa they cant travel. I have sent them email, but they are just asking to wait. Please help me in this situation. What should I do? Your early response is highly appreciated.
Hi Rahul, Unfortunately only Hayya team can help you. Since your father’s visa is already approved, there is nothing wrong with your application or there are no restrictions on your nationality. Hopefully your mother’s visa will be approved soon.
Hi! Do holders of A1 tourist visa need to pass through immigration officer or they can just use the e-gate?
Hi gee, According to Hayya officials, Hayya visa holders can enjoy e-gate entry at Hamad International Airport.
IS A1 EXTENSION POSSIBLE AFTER 2 MONTHS ALSO ??
Hi Rahul, No, 2 months is the maximum for Tourist Visa.
Hello Doha Guides.
My name is Ayesheh and I live in Republic of Iran
Can I apply for a tourist visa (A1)?
And another question, is the visa free or with a fee?
And another question, how long does it take for the visa to be issued?
please guide me.
Thank you
Hi Ayesheh, As per the official Visit Qatar website, Iranian nationals can apply for Hayya Tourist Visa (A1). The fee is QR 100.
Hello again. I applied on October 30 and still under review.
I heard from my friends that tourist visa and HayyaCard are not issued for some nationalities, including IRAN.
Is this true?
Hi Ayesheh, There is no official announcement about restriction on any nationality. Usually, if there is a restriction they will remove that nationality option from the Hayya portal. Since it has been only 4 days since you applied, that may not be the case. You can check directly with Hayya helpline.
Dear DG Team,
Good Day!!
My Hayya A1 Visa application pending since more than one month, I sent an email 3 days ago to cancel this application for Re-Apply, but still I haven’t received any reply from them for cancellation of my application.
How long it’ll take again for cancellation?
Please reply!!
Thank-You.
Hi Ibrar, Unfortunately there is no standard time. Earlier Hayya Support was asking applicants to send request for cancellation. Now they are saying they cannot cancel, so applicants should wait. Kindly contact Hayya Support at (+974) 4441 2022.
Good day,
The hayya visa for my family is approved. Is there any problem if I change the hotel accomodation? I need to cancel my previous hotel booking and change for new one.
Thanks for the help❤️
Hi Abby, If it is same type of accommodation it should be OK. You can double check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
hello dohaguides,
I made a call to hayya helpline regarding the application for my husband for tourist A1 visa. The agent said that if the application is pending you can cancel it after 14 days and resubmit it. He said that some applicants have had success in getting approvals earlier this way. Is it true? if we cancel it and resubmit there are higher chances of getting approval earlier.
Also i want to know can the application go on pending for like a month or above? Can it go pending till even two months?
Hi Rabia, Yes, there is a delay in approvals since the last week of September. Some of them were approved after 3 weeks, while some are still pending. Recently some applicants were able to cancel old application and get new application approved. If you want, you can do as per their suggestion. To cancel the application you have to send an email request to [email protected]. Once cancelled you can apply again. [NOTE: We suggest that you do this only if your application has been pending for 14 days or more].
hello dohaguides.
are there any recent news of approvals of A1 visas? my husband (pakistani) has applied for it on 7th october and hasnt recieved any confirmation yet. can you please confirm if there is any news of recent approvals for pakistanis?. Also what is the maximum time in which we recieve any confirmation. One month? or will it be pending even after that? he is suppose to travel on 7th november and we dont have any other option.
Hi Rabia, Many applicants who applied in September last week were approved this week. We are not aware of any restriction for any nationality. You can call Hayya helpline.
Hello DG Team.
Sorry, I don’t know the meaning of delay. Does this mean that after two or three weeks, the visa will finally be issued? Or it will remain pending and the visa will not be issued
Between late September and now, have you received any reports that someone’s visa has been issued after two or three weeks?
Hi Yousef, Yes, we’ve seen several cases in which individuals who applied last month were approved this week. Our assumption is that there is currently an intensified security check for visa approvals which is causing delays.
Respected DG TEAM,
Good day!!
It is almost a month, but my wife’s Hayya A1 visa still on pending.
Please let me know how to resolve this issue. as Hayya Customer care only telling a repeated answer (it’s under review).
Next week her flight, and I don’t have her visa.
Please I request for kind help.
Hi Ibrar, Unfortunately most applicants are facing this issue since last month. Some of them who applied last month have been approved this week. Only Hayya Team can do something.
pl guide how to speeden up the status of pending A1 visa applications. don’t see any reason why applications are delayed. three applicants applied for visa on 9 Oct and got the visa where applications of 28 Sept are yet pending! is it a glitch?
Hi Rosy, Unfortunately there is a delay in most approvals since the end of September. The only option is to contact Hayya Customer Care.
Are you received your visa??
My visa still pending from 24th September.
I tried to extend hayya a1 visa (India) in MOI asked for insurance. I purchased and tried for extension but still shows the insurance required. pls advise urgent
Hi Ragul, Make sure you have added the passport or visa number when you purchased health insurance. If you have added and it is not updated in the system please contact your insurance company.
Hayya A1 if I applied for this visa and for example it is approved. My question is is it multiple e
ntry or single entry. Please advise.
hi i have applied for A1 visa but no reply and helpline telling to wait. i am from pakistan can i get visa on arrival instead?
Hi Manzoor, You can get visa on arrival only if you have Discover Qatar hotel booking. More details: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/
Hi Feroze, Hayya A1 is single entry. Only Hayya With Me is multiple entry.
Hi I have applied A1 tourist visa for my father last week it has not yet approved can I apply for family visit now when A1 visa status is pending
Dear Team,
Please dont wrong information to people, we checked with Hayya team about applying visit visa when A1 status is still pending. They clearly said no !
Both the application will get rejected
Hi Mariyam, When another reader (lstan) contacted Hayya Helpline they told it would be rejected.
On 24 September 2023 – I have applied hayya A1 visa for my wife and daughter, and daughter’s visa got approved instantly next day, but my wife’s visa it’s showing still pending. I contact hayya support team many times, but they are telling me to wait.
And I already booked the nonrefundable flights for them.
Please help me in this critical situation.
Hi Ibrar, Unfortunately there is a delay in A1 visa since last 2-3 weeks. Only Hayya helpline can do something.
Dear DG,
Many thanks for your reply.
I contact Hayya helpline several times, but they are not telling more than (it is under review and pending) which is already we can see in HAYYA App. I am not understanding about it how resolve this issue and from whom I can get help to fix it.
Hi Ibrar, Unfortunately there is no physical office to follow-up this. Most people are facing this issue now.