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.
Dear Doha guides,
When I’m trying to extend the visa for my wife and child it shows ” The remaining period for extend is 0 days”
Hi
My family arrived in Qatar on 27.03.2024 on an A1 visa from India. The Moi shows the last date as 26.04.2024. If I am going to extend my stay, do I have to take insurance for 30 days from 26.04.2024 or 27.04.2024.
Hi
My family arrived in Qatar on 27.03.2024 on an A1 visa from India. The Moi shows the last date as 26.04.2034. If I am going to extend my stay, do I have to take insurance for 30 days from 26.04.2024 or 27.04.2024.
Hello Doha Guides,
Can Filipino extend A1 tourist visa for another 30 days?
Hi Neil, We don’t think so (did not work for others). You can double check with 800 2022.
Currently on Business Visa Indian National. Planning to bring wife during vacation with A1 visa. Indians needs either host or hotel accommodation. My doubt is if I booked a hotel through Discover Qatar for 2 days or 1 week and apply for A1 visa, will the visa will be valid for the booking period only or will be as normal like 30 days. ?
Hi Jithin, Discover Qatar booking is only required for Visa On Arrival. For an A1 tourist visa, you can book any hotel. You or any Qatar resident can also host. Usually, the A1 visa is issued for 30 days (irrespective of the hotel booking period). However, we suggest the hosting option as it will be easier to extend (if you want to).
Hai
I am Qatar with Hayya A1 tourist Visa, While I am trying to extend my visa via Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal it shows error as the “Visa is no possible for Extension. You have reached Maximum on your Stay” even though my visa valid for another 12 more days . Also I have purchased the 30day Insurance in regard of extension
Hi Firoz, The A1 Visa extension is not possible for some nationalities. If you are Indian, Pakistani etc. you may be eligible. Call 800 2022 to check your eligibility. If they say you are eligible, but you can’t do it online, try visiting the Airport Immigration Office with the insurance printout.
Could you please assist me with these doubts?
1. My wife and baby currently hold valid Hayya A1 visas. Can I apply for a family residency visa for them before or after they arrive here? I have all the required documents ready. The visit visa process is getting delayed, and the MOI service centers are not allowing visit visa applications.
2. What steps do I need to take to change their visas? Do they need to leave the country to change to a family residency visa, or is it possible to do it from here?
Hi Muhammed,
1) Yes, you can.
2) Once RP is approved, you can try visiting the Airport Immigration Center. Sometimes they will allow by paying QR 500. If not you will have to exit to the Saudi border and re-enter.
Dear Team,
Can I apply for A1 tourist visa multiple times by exiting Qatar? Is there a time frame between to issuing the visa?
Thank you for your guidance.
Hi Anas, You can apply immediately after exit. So far, there is no time limit between two Tourist visas.
Hi,
i have extended my mom A1 hayya visa in MOI its shows validity for extra 30days, but I am not able to take any printout of it, how can I confirm it is extended
Hi Hezia, You can print from here: https://portal.moi.gov.qa/wps/portal/MOIInternet/services/inquiries/visaservices/enquiryandprinting
hayya already sent me invitation letter.also I have proof of address of my family’s stay.so what should I take to airport.print out of email or hotel booking.Do they need same mode of accomadation or any confirmed authorised acvomadation
Hi Alia, You should show the same mode of accommodation that you have been approved for. If you got Hayya approval with hotel accommodation, show the hotel booking details.
I got A1 visa through travel agencies.they shown hotel booking as accomodation and I got visa.but I have plan to stay with family.so I got invitation email through hayya but after getting entry permit.so will it cause any problem
Hi Alia, If you want to change accommodation type after approval, then you have to contact Hayya helpline and the application will be under process again. This means it should be approved again. The easiest way is not to make any change, collect the hotel booking confirmation from the travel agency and enter Qatar. You are free to stay anywhere after entry.
Hi, I am a srilankan. Now I am currently in qatar. My A1 Tourist Visa expire on 6th of march. Can I extend my visa online?
Hi Mohamed, A1 visa extension is not available for some nationalities. So please call 109 or 800 2022 to confirm this before purchasing medical insurance.
Update on Extending Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) in Qatar
Hi DG and all,
I wanted to share some good news regarding extending Hayya Tourist Visas (A1) in Qatar. As of now, it’s possible to extend the visa for an additional 30 days.
My niece’s family, including children, applied for their Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) in December 2023 and received it within a few days. They arrived in Qatar during the second week of February 2024 and recently successfully extended their visas for another 30 days i.e., in Total 60 Days Stay in Qatar.
Please note that attempting to extend your Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website may result in an error message stating that your insurance is not linked to the visa. In this case, you need to visit the Airport Passports Department in person to complete the extension process. You can find their location by searching “Airport Passports Department” on Google.
I hope this information is helpful!
Hi Mohammed, Thank you very much for sharing this.
Hi
tourist A1 visa After 30 day extension we need medical
for example my family staying 42 day , need medical
Hi Alpesh, For an A1 tourist visa extension, you only need health insurance. A medical test is only required for a family visit visa extension.
Hi
My family arrived in Qatar on 27.03.2024 on an A1 visa from India. The Moi shows the last date as 26.04.2024. If I am going to extend my stay, do I have to take insurance for 30 days from 26.04.2024 or 27.04.
Hi I have applied A1 visa friend visit on 2023 December 25 but still in process I am a srilankan and called and asked but they said still under process that should wait can you please reply me
Hi Riza, Normally it wouldn’t take 2 months. Please double-check if there is any issue with the application, or call the helpline again to confirm.
I plan to bring my wife on an A1 visa on 7th March. However, it has been reported that the A1 visa period ends on February 24. Let me know if you can bring it.
Hi Beldone, Only Hayya With Me (C) category ends on 24 Feb. Other types of Hayya visas will continue. You can apply for A1 visa now.
Hi,
My wife visa application is still pending and it has been nearly 4 weeks, I applied on (17 Jan), I leave next week with my wife to Doha, will need the visa to come this week, Im really hoping it does. Do you think it will come this week, are there cases where people recieved them 4 weeks later or a month later. In Sha Allah it comes, I am really hoping so, please advise if you can, called and email the support team over 10 times, they said to wait, are these delays normal?
Hi Shakib, This happens in some rare cases. Most applications are approved in one week.
Hello Doha Guides Team. Good Time.
Excuse me, I have a question.
My friend has Iranian nationality and resides in Oman
Can he apply for a tourist visa (A1) and travel from Iran to Qatar?
Or should he apply for a tourist visa (A2) and travel from Oman to Qatar?
I got a little confused
Thank you for guiding me
Hi Hadi, Both are fine. A2 will be easier to get approval (as GCC Resident).
Thanks for your answer, but one more question:
Can my friend travel to Qatar from Iran as a GCC resident?
Hi Hadi, If it is an A2 visa, his airline may not allow travelling from a non-GCC country. In that case, it is better to apply for an A1 visa.
Hi Doha Guides ,
Is A1 visa is multiple entry to Qatar or not. My mom wants to visit Saudi after and come back to Qatar. So is that possible with the A1 visa.
Please let me know.
Hi Fazav, A1 visa is a single entry. You will need to apply for another visa if you exit the country.
Hi doha guide team,
I’m from Pakistan and planning to visit Qatar for 1 month visit visa by A1 visa if I get approved my application do I still need health insurance for 1 month visit visa or no. Please details and help me to guide me how can get approved my visa thanks
Hi Muhammad, If you are staying for 1 month you will need health insurance during travel (not during application).
Hello,
Thank you so much for the information, I just wanted to ask 2 questions.
01) What is the last date to enter Qatar under a Tourist A1 visa?
02) If the visitors stay 3 to 5 days, do they need travel insurance?
Thank you 🙂
Hi Muhammadu, (1) The last date to enter will depend on when the visa was issued. The last date will be printed on your visa as validity.
(2) As per the Qatar Government Helpline, insurance is only compulsory for those staying above 30 days. It is recommended for all visitor (but not compulsory). However some airlines are asking this even if you visit for short period because this is not clearly written on official websites.
Hi, I want to apply MOPH for my mom for A1hayya visa, I want to extend it to 30 more days as well, totally 60 days. In this case, should I purchase the insurance for 60 days?
Please help me on this
Hi Hezia, The standard procedure is that you buy insurance for 30 days and then another insurance for 30 more days during visa renewal. The price is same even if you buy at once or separately.
Dear DG
I am here in Qatar , i have Hayya Portal in my phone can i apply for tourist Visa A1 for my Wife and a baby from my Portal at the same time also is it possible to extend A1 Visa for more 60 Days after arrival time.
Thanks and Kind Regards
Bija y Siwa
Hi Bijay, This is a two step process: (Step 1) You should register as a host from your Hayya account (upload Tenancy Contract or National Address Certificate) and add wife and child as guests. (Step 2) Create a new Hayya account for your wife (using another email id) and apply for both visas from that account.