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 16 January 2024.
Residents and visa holders of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Schengen countries can now avail of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through the Hayya portal and stay in Qatar for up to 30 days. Whether you’re visiting Qatar for business or leisure, having a valid ETA visa will ensure a hassle-free entry into the country.
Applying for an ETA visa is a straightforward process, but it’s important to know the requirements and procedures to ensure a smooth application process. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to apply for a Qatar ETA visa online, including the necessary documents, fees, and processing time.
What is Visa With ETA Qatar
Visa With ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a pre-approval system that allows eligible travellers to visit Qatar for tourism or business purposes.
Usually, ETAs are available only to travellers from nations that have established a Visa Waiver Program with the host country. The application is done over the internet and the approval is linked to the passport number.
Qatar launched an ETA system in September 2017, under which citizens of all nationalities who hold valid residence permits or visas from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America can obtain an ETA for up to 30 days.
Currently, ETA for Qatar can be applied through the official Hayya portal. You only need to upload your documents, enter the required information, and pay the visa fee (if applicable).
Qatar ETA Visa Eligibility Requirements
- Qatar ETA Visa is available to nationals of all countries, who hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand visa or residency.
- The visitor’s passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of entry.
- The visitor should have confirmed accommodation. This can be “Family and Friends Hosting” or “Other Accommodation” (hotel booking).
- The visitor should have a return flight ticket.
- The visitor should have health insurance (as per MOPH guidelines) if staying for more than 30 days.
Please note that nationals of more than 90 countries are eligible for a free visa on arrival in Qatar. Even if you are eligible for a visa on arrival, you can still apply for an ETA visa through the Hayya portal.
Qatar ETA Visa Cost
Qatar ETA Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27).
Qatar ETA Visa Validity
The ETA Visa you receive through the Hayya platform is valid for 30 days from the entry date.
Entry Permits are valid for 30 days from the date of issue, so visitors must enter within those days.
How To Apply For Qatar Visa With ETA (A3) Online
Follow these steps to apply for a Qatar ETA Visa via Hayya Portal:
Step 1: Visit 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 “Visa With ETA (A3)” 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, heritage tourism, friend visits, 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: Upload Visa or Resident Card
Upload your valid Schengen, US, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand visa or resident card. Click “Save”.
Step 11: Select Your Accommodation Type
If you are staying with family or friends, your details should have already been added by your host in Qatar. 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 ETA Visa Processing Time
As of December 2023, there is a delay in approvals. Some applications are taking up to 3 weeks, while most are being approved in one week.
NOTE: If you are eligible for an ETA Visa, there is a chance that you are also eligible for a visa on arrival using ETA. If your travel dates are near and your visa application still is pending, you can contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected] to check about your eligibility for visa on arrival.
Additional information
- The Hayya Entry Permit is valid for 30 days. So applications should be made around 30 days before travel.
- The passport should be valid for at least three (3) months from the date of entry in Qatar.
- For each adult family member, a separate Hayya account is required to apply.
- You can add children as dependents to your Hayya account, but all details should be filled in. You can also apply separately for children. Children also must have a Visa or Residency from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen, Australia, or New Zealand.
- Visa holders are not allowed to work in Qatar during their stay.
Documents Needed For Travel Using ETA Visa
While travelling using the Hayya ETA Visa, you will need the following:
- Passport
- Hayya Entry Permit
- Return Flight Tickets
- Health Insurance
- Accommodation Details
- Visa or Resident Card that makes you eligible for ETA
Currently, COVID-19 vaccination, PCR testing and Ehteraz pre-registration are not required for visitors to Qatar.
FAQ on Qatar ETA Visa Procedure
How many days is Qatar ETA Visa valid for?
Qatar ETA Visa holders can stay in Qatar for up to 30 days in one trip.
How much does a Qatar ETA Visa cost?
Qatar ETA Visa costs QAR 100 (USD 27).
How much is the fine after the Qatar ETA Visa expires?
The fine for an expired ETA 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 children must have a Visa or Residency from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen, Australia, or New Zealand.
Is there any age limit to apply for ETA Visa?
There is no age limit to apply for ETA Visa. As long as you meet the listed requirements, you can apply.
Will the validity of my UK, Schengen or US Visa/Residency affect my applications? And can I enter Qatar if it has expired?
To apply for Entry with ETA, your US, UK, Canada, Schengen, Australia, and New Zealand visa residency must be valid at the time you receive your entry visa and your passport should be valid for the next three (3) months from your arrival date in Qatar.
READ NEXT: How To Host Family And Friends On Hayya
Related Articles:
- How To Apply Tourist Visa Through Hayya
- How To Apply Hayya Visa For Children
- Hayya Card Photo Requirements
- Hayya Card Guide & How To Apply
- Visiting Qatar: The 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.
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,
I have applied for the ETA two days ago and now my status is pending payment. However, my actual arrival will be in more than 2 months. If i pay the fee now, the ETA visa will run out ny the time I come there. Should I wait for the current visa application to be canceled (due to not paying the visa fee) and resubmit another one after that? Will this act have some bad impact on my next application? Could you kindly advise? Thank you so much
Hi Mai, You can ignore this if you are not ready to travel now. It won’t affect your next application. You can double check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hello Doha Guides
My name is Ali and my nationality is Iran. Now I live in the Czech Republic. I applied for a tourist visa (A1) and luckily it was approved. But I read on your website that people with my conditions should choose the ETA Visa category. Does this mean that I got the wrong visa and will have trouble traveling to Qatar?
Hi Ali, Nothing to worry about. If you have approved an A1 visa, that is enough. An A3 visa may be easier to get approval (because it is based on residency), but A1 is also fine.
My friend from India (with Indian passport & US Visa) is planning to visit us in the 2nd week of January on A3 Visa. He plans to stay with us in Doha for few days and then together the two families plan to go for umrah by road on 19th January and return to Doha on 27th January.
My query is since A3 is a single-entry visa, is he allowed to apply for A3 visa immediately upon leaving the Abu Samra border which will allow him to re-enter Qatar after performing umrah and take the return flight to India from Doha itself.
Hi Syed, Usually you are allowed to apply for new visa once you leave the country. However please confirm this with Hayya Support at [email protected] or 800 2022.
What do I have to get to the airport other than my passport and my Hayya entry permit?
Hi A, For A3 visa you need to show the residence permit or visa of the qualifying country (if it is in passport, passport is enough). You will also need details of your accommodation in Qatar.
I already have my Hayya A3, round trip ticket, accomodation proof as I will be residing at my friend’s house, my passport, and my residence card. Do I need anything else?
Hi A, That should be enough. If your airline insists on travel insurance you may have to purchase that (some airlines ask for that even for short stay). You can do it online on your mobile from the airport itself.
Hello, I inquired earlier about the delay I have, my visa’s status has finally moved to Pending Payment! Now, what happens? If I have paid, is there a possibility for my visa to still be extra delayed after the payment? If you have an idea, how long would it take to receive my visa once I have paid? In addition, my trip is on Dec 21st and I am applying to the eTA, do you recommend me to wait until Nov 21 to pay?
Hi Al Zokari, Once you pay it will be automatically approved. There will be no delay because it does not require manual checking. A3 visa is usually valid for 30 days. If you are travelling after 30 days, it is better to contact Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022 before making payment.
So, it is valid for 30 days from the date of approval or “date of payment” is this right?
Hi Al Zokari, Usually 30 days from the date of issue. So it is better to contact the helpline directly and check if they can change the date or extend the validity.
Thank you for the information! I will contact them, but just so I know, even if I paid the fees on Friday night or anytime in the weekend, I will recieve my visa the moment I pay, and the validity of that visa will start from the date of the payment.so if I got approved in Nov 20, paid my visa on Dec 1, I will still be able to enter Qatar before Dec 31. this correct?
Hi Al Zokari, Unfortunately we cannot confirm that because normally everyone pays the fee the same day as approval. So we are not sure if the day is counted form approval or the payment date,
I’m an Australian citizen stopping over en route to South Africa in Doha for a couple of days, hotel booked but I’m really keen to stop on my way back again after 6 weeks and stay at my friends. It will be after 30 days and my nationality (Australian) doesn’t qualify for a multiple entry visa. Do I apply for another 30 day visa on my way back?
Hi Liz, Australian citizens are eligible for visa on arrival. You won’t even need to apply in advance. You can double check this with Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999 or [email protected]. Here is more info on VOA: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/
Hi,
I applied for the ETA visa last month and was only given 30days to enter but my actual trip is early december, so the A3 visa will run out before the actual trip. i plan to reapply when it expires on the 9th of november, Do you think me not using the first visa for the trip will hinder my next application.
Hi Ayo, Usually this won’t be an issue. You can double check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
What is the current approval duration? Is it even longer?
Hi Al Zokari, It is faster than last month, but still taking 1-2 weeks for most applicants. You can check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
I have applied in end of September. When I contacted the support team, they just told me to wait and I do not know why. What can I possibly do? My trip is going to be in late December and I already have booked everything, but they are making me anxious with this much of time to process my Eta. Please note that I have received a pop-up message that is asking for my date of arrival and date of departure a week ago, I do not know if this is a good sign that my application is not being ignored or what.
Hi,
From what I see on Visitqatar.com platform, there is visa check tool, when I choose that I am Egyptian and I have valid visa from US, it says “You can enter visa free or get haya visa with ETA”
I am trying to get confirmation from hukoomi qatar or haya; however, they know nothing about this and they keep saying you need to get visa first.
Any help who can I contact as I have already booked the flight from the US to Doha?
Thanks
Hi Mohamed, As per Visit Qatar tool, applicants who are eligible for A3 visa are also eligible for visa on arrival. However as per the experience of other travellers, if you are from an Asian country, it is better to apply for A3 visa in advance. This is because this rule is not clearly defined and there is a possibility your airline will not allow to board without visa. We suggest that you apply for A3 in advance and travel with a confirmed visa.
Thanks for the reply. We are Egyptian and we have applied for the Visa with ETA, the kids got approved and my wife’s application is still for a month now. Haya does not seem to have a solution for this. It is very clear on the VisitQatar tool that we can get visa on arrival; however, it is confusing to hear differently from other sources. We already booked the flight tickets and hotel on Discover Qatar even.
Hi Mohamed, Adults’ visas get delayed because there is a security clearance process. It’s good that you have booked Discover Qatar. Let’s hope things go well. If possible please comment back to let us know how it went. Best wishes.
Hi,
Good Morning..
I am staying in Qatar. My sister family want to visit Qatar on ETA (A3) Hayya visa since they have US visa. Actually they are coming from Colombo then stay in Qatar two days then travel to US from Doha. Not going back to Colombo. IS it allowable.
Hi Ilanko, This is accepted. Try to apply soon before 30 days as there is a delay in approvals.
Hi, Will the ETA A3 visa allow multiple entry in those 30 days? For example : If I land in Qatar stay for a day and then go to Dubai for 3 days and return to Qatar and stay for 5 days. I’m Indian Passport with USA Green Card.
Hi Fatima, As far as we know, ETA A3 visa is single entry. You can double check with Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Hi,
I mistakenly choose the wrong visa purpose. Is it possible to withdraw application and resubmit as its been more than 48hours bit we haven’t heard anything back yet.
Hi Waleed, Check if the “Edit Application” option is active. If yes, you can edit the existing one. Or else you can contact Hayya Customer Care.
My Brother from India has a valid US visa and he is planning to visit Qatar to me in September and then from here he will go to US.. But he will again return from US to Qatar and then from here to India..so is multiple entry allowed in this ETA visa and if not what other options do we have?.. Thanks in Advance
Hi Shahnawaz, This is not multiple entry visa. He will have to apply again after leaving Qatar.
Hi, I only have 12hours in Doha for a lay-over. 1PM to 1:30AM. Do I still need to have a hotel to apply for the visa? Thank you
Hi Chet, If you are applying online, they may reject your application because the rule is that accommodation should be confirmed. We advise that you book a hotel and cancel after arrival.
Dear DG,
How can we extend visitor stay in Qatar with ETA (A3) entry visa.
Hi Ruel, Currently they haven’t announced any option to extend A3 visa. You can double check with Hayya helpline.