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.
Hi, My wife is already inside Qatar through Hayya with Me (C) as everyone knows this visa only valid upto Feb 24,2024. Now can i apply Tourist Visa (A1) especially when she’s inside Qatar is it possible ?
Hi Prakash, Those who applied for a Hayya Tourist visa while inside Qatar are getting rejected. So we are not sure if that would work. Since it is free, you can try it if you want.
hayya Tourist A1 visa Now available can i apply visa for my wife and son. Any chance to stop after Asia Cup Hayya Tourist A1 visa.For Indians need to book hotel or Accommodation(Villas or House) proof is enough. Please Tell about full details.
Hi Saba, You can apply Hayya Tourist Visa A1 for wife and children. A1 visa won’t be stopped after Asia Cup. Hotel accommodation is not compulsory. Instead, you can upload your tenancy contract or National Address Certificate on your Hayya account and add them as guests. While applying visa, apply from your wife’s account (there should be two Hayya accounts – one for host and one for guest).
Hi All,
I’m trying to extend my parents’ hayya A1 tourist visa. But I’m getting Unexpected error from the MOI website. Can you pls let me know how to proceed?
Hi Siva, This could be a system error. Retry again later or call 109.
Good day and happy New year, I actually read through your article and is inspiring, but I want to know whether applicant passport number is not visible on the Hayya tourist visa entering permit , like there’s Hayya number and there’s visa number. Just need little enlighten on this.
I will be grateful for your quick response.
Thanks
Oluwayemisi.
Hi Oluwayemisi, Happy New Year! You can scan the QR code on the Hayya Entry Permit. It would show more details like full name and passport number.
Hi.. This is Abdul.. I applied Hayya A1 Visa for Ma Wife & Son. Hayya A1 Visa Duration Mentioned in visa 30 days Stay. When they entered the Qatar, I Purchase the Health insurance for Upcoming month also. Once i purchase the Insurance for next 30 days, I checked in Visa validity in MOI portal, Visa valid extended automatically as per Health Insurance purchase. Now I got total 60 days validity Dec & Jan) 30 Free Stay + Extended 30 days !!!
Hi Abdul Khader, That’s great! Thanks for updating here.
Hello,
Can you advise that after 60 days can we extend more 30 days with Hayya A1 visa? is there is any way for that?.
Hi Nazimudeen, Currently you can only extend your A1 visa for 30 days. There is no option to extend again.
I am from Nepal and I have a visa of USA and I am traveling via Qatar on 31st decemeber. Is it possible to get layover visa in this short duration?
Hi Pradhum, You can check with your local Qatar Airways office to see if they can issue Transit Visa. Another option is the ETA Visa (Hayya A3) as explained here: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-eta-visa-online/. In either case approval within 2 days can be difficult, but you can try.
Hi, Iam Megh from Nepal
I bring my mom by Haya (A1 visa) and now I need to extend her 1 month more, but I require for that there have any selected countries for extended?
Hi Megh, Hayya A1 extension is available only for some countries. We are not sure if Nepal is included. Before buying insurance, please check with the Hayya helpline at 800 2022 or the Government helpline at 109.
Hi
I like to inform that to all Nepal and Philipsens has no extended days.
I went yesterday in Airport passport department of Qatar they didn’t allow to me extend more 30 days. I try from Visa Extension Service also but from there also not allow.
So, please do you have any other idea so I can extend more 1 moth in Qatar?
thank you.
Hi Megh, Unfortunately, the A1 extension only applies to countries with visa-on-arrival facilities. Other nationalities have to exit and re-apply for a new A1 visa.
Hi, Iam jithin , I tried to extend my father’s A1 tourist visa through moi website after taking insurance, but still facing some error like health insurance data not found. Can you help me in this matter
Hi Jithin, You need to take new insurance policy for one month (use visa number during purchase) and wait 24 hours for this to get updated in the system. If it is still showing error contact your insurance provider or call 109.
You got extension for your father??
Hello
I applied for A1 tourist visa
And after ten days it’s still pending
What i have to do ??
Hi Majid, Please contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hi , I applied for tourist visa ( haya A1) and issued. After entering Qatar can I extend that visa ?
Hi Muhammad, Yes, Hayya A1 visa can be extended for most nationalities. After entry you need to take health insurance for one more month and apply for renewal through Ministry of Interior website.
Dear Muhammad,
kindly advise how long take for your to approve A1 Visa
I am an Iranian citizen and I live in the Czech Republic. I applied for a tourist visa (A1) and the visa was issued. According to your articles, I should have applied for ETA Visa (A3). Now I will have trouble traveling?
Hello DohaGuides
I am Ayesheh and I applied for a tourist visa and luckily the visa was issued. And then I wanted to apply for my little son, but the system gave an error that the last name can be a maximum of 20 characters, while my child’s last name is 21 characters! When I upload the passport, the system automatically records the name and surname, and it is not even possible to edit it. I contacted Hayya support but they couldn’t help me. Do you have a solution for this issue?
Hi Ayesheh, You can enter the first 20 characters. Usually, this is accepted during travel as the authorities know this.
Thanks for replying
When I upload my passport, the system automatically saves the name and surname and unfortunately does not allow me to edit it. Is there a solution to this issue?
Hi Ayesheh, If your passport is machine-readable the system automatically feeds the data. Even if you enter manually you can enter 20 characters only. You can contact Hayya customer care for more assistance.
HI DG
My nephew is on Haya A1 Visa and i have bought the insurance from QIC for one more month to extend the visa. Even after 3 days it is shöwing “NO HELATH INSURANCE DATA FOUND FOR THE REQUESTED EXTEND DURATION,PLEASE PURCHASE THE INSURANCE”. When i enquired with QIC they informed me that they have done the needful from their side. They also advised me to approach Airport Immigration office for the extension.
Hi Ranjith,
Do you find any solution for this? I’m also facing the same.
Hi Ranjith, Usually it gets updated within one day. We are unsure if this is a system error or a new update. As QIC suggested please visit Airport Immigration with proof of insurance purchase.
Dear DG
Good Afternoon! I’m pleased to share that I received my mother’s tourist visa within a day. Initially, the application was rejected yesterday due to an issue with father’s name. However, I promptly uploaded the last page of the passport along with the first page, and this morning, the visa was approved.
Regarding the payment, I haven’t received the link yet. Could you please provide details on where and when the payment needs to be made?
Additionally, I’d appreciate information about the required health insurance. Kindly clarify whether it needs to be obtained immediately or at the time of extension for another year.
Thank you in advance for your assistance
Hallo, wie kann ich denn im Haaya Portal eine bestehende Bewerbung löschen um einen neuen Visa Antrag zu stellen?
Hallo, Sie müssen sich an die Hayya-Hotline wenden, um die Anwendung zu löschen.
Hi,
My A1 visa was issued 13-11-2023 and the last day of entry is on 13-12-2023, my date of visit or entry to Qatar is on January 9, 2024 to January 13, 2024, is my visa still valid on that date or do I need to extend or apply again for my visa.
Hi Noel, With this entry permit your airline will not allow you to board after 13 December. You need to contact Hayya helpline and get new entry permit (if they can change this).
Hi Team
My Mothers hayya application got rejected and reason for rejection: passport photo copy is not clear. Is this for passport or personal photo?
My Father application is pending as it show upload booked accommodation. What should i upload?
Hi Saba, For mother’s application upload a clear passport copy. For father’s application if you have selected “other accommodation”, you should upload hotel booking under the “Accommodation” tab. If the plan is to stay with family, you should add him as a guest under your Hayya account first and select “Family and Friends” option for accommodation. Here is how to add guests: https://www.dohaguides.com/host-family-and-friends-hayya/
My family is in Qatar on Hayya A1 Tourist Visa and We would like to go Umrah and come Qatar Back again.
May I apply Hayya A1 visa again or on arrival visa can be obtained?
Hi Ali, Hayya A1 can only be applied after exit. If your new visa is approved quickly you can come back. If your nationality is eligible for visa on arrival you can get that. We suggest that you confirm with the Qatar Government Helpline at 109 or [email protected].
Hello DohaGuides Team
I applied for a tourist visa (A1) in October and it is still under review. Now I can apply a new application using the hayya with me (C) option?
Hi Soltan, Please contact the Hayya helpline and remove the old application before applying again. Note that Hayya With Me is valid until January only.
Anyone facing problem with Hayya A1 extension ? Already purchased another month of insurance, from the date of the expiry of last insurance, bought it twice from different companies, still showing “health insurance not found” when I tried to extend in the website 😓
Hi Deena, It takes some time to update in the system. Please retry after 24 hours. If you can’t renew even after 24 hours, please contact your insurance company.
Hi Deena,
Same issue happened to me as well. unable to extend and showing the insurance error. have you checked the validity of the visa ? I can see the visa validity is extended however I am still not sure it’s not extended or not.
let me know if u get any resolution.