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 August 2024.
What is Qatar Family Visit Visa?
Qatar Family Visit Visa is a type of short-term visa that enables expatriate residents to bring their spouse, children, father, mother, or other relatives of the first and second degrees to Qatar for a short visit. The visa is issued for one month and can be extended for another five months (in some cases).
This article explains the requirements, documents, application process, visa cost, and other details of the Qatar Family Visit Visa.
Please Note: This is a short-term visa for visiting purposes only. Foreign employees who wish to sponsor their families to live long-term in Qatar should refer to the Family Residence Visa Procedure.
- What is Qatar Family Visit Visa?
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Latest News And Updates 2024
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Requirements
- Documents Required for Qatar Family Visit Visa
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Fee
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Validity
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Application
- How To Apply For Qatar Family Visit Visa Online
- How To Check the Status of Family Visit Visa
- Applying Family Visit Visa Offline
- Family Visit Visa Rejected: What To Do
- How To Cancel Visa Application In Metrash
- Document Checklist for Family Visit Visa Travellers
- How To Extend Family Visit Visa
- Other Points To Note
- FAQ on Qatar Family Visit Visa
Qatar Family Visit Visa Latest News And Updates 2024
AUGUST 2024 STATUS
Currently, the Family Visit Visa also requires CEID verification for adults. This stage comes after the visa number is issued. The application status on Metrash will be “Under Process” with the visa number. On average this is taking 1-2 weeks.
Since September 2023, Family Visit Visa applications are being accepted for visitors aged 60 and above. Many recent applicants have already received their visa numbers.
Additionally, visit visa extensions of up to 6 months are permitted for spouses and children.
Applications for family visit visas can be submitted online using the Metrash app.
The new Immigration office at Al Duhail is now allowing entry for expatriates who want to make changes to their Visit Visa or Family RP applications or resubmit documents. However they may not allow follow-up visits. You can park your car in the basement and proceed to the first floor.
04 December 2023 Update
The Ministry of Interior has clarified the eligibility criteria for Family Visit Visa as follows:
1. Applicant should have a minimum salary of QR 5000.
2. The profession should be a non-labour category.
3 The applicant should have family accommodation duly accredited by relevant authorities.
4. The visitor must have health insurance.
5. The visitor must be a relative of the applying resident within the allowed degrees of relation.
Please note that the information provided above is not based on any official announcement but rather on the recent experiences of applicants who visited MOI Centers. Individual outcomes may vary depending on various factors.
Health Insurance For Family Visit Visa
Health insurance is now mandatory for a Family Visit Visa. Once your visa is approved, you will receive an SMS with a link to purchase the health insurance online.
Applicants can buy health insurance for QAR 50 per month from any of the registered insurance companies listed on the MOPH website. More details about visitors’ insurance are available here.
Attestation For Marriage Certificate
Until recently, most visit visa applications for spouses were approved without an attested marriage certificate. However, nowadays attestation is compulsory for marriage certificates.
For a Family Visit Visa, attestation is not mandatory for children’s birth certificates. It is mandatory for a Family Residence Visa.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Requirements
Expatriate residents in Qatar can apply for a family visit visa subject to meeting minimum salary and professional requirements.
Minimum Salary For Family Visit Visa in Qatar
The minimum salary required to apply for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar for spouses and children is QR 5,000 per month.
A minimum monthly salary of QR 10,000 is required to apply for Family Visit Visas for other relatives.
Visa Type | Minimum Salary Required |
---|---|
Family Visit Visa – Spouse and Children | QR 5,000 |
Family Visit Visa – Other Relatives | QR 10,000 |
Profession Requirement for Family Visit Visa in Qatar
Most expatriates with the required minimum salary are eligible to apply for a family visit visa. However, some applications may be rejected if the applicant’s profession on Qatar ID is labour-type.
Even if an application is rejected due to an ineligible profession, the Captain at the MOI Service Center has the power to change the decision.
Family Members That Can Be Hosted
- First Degree: Wife, Children, Father, Mother
- Second Degree: Brother, Sister, Grandfather, Grandmother, Grandchildren
- Third Degree: Children of brother or sister, Paternal uncle or aunt (brother or sister of father), Maternal uncle or aunt (Brother or sister of mother)
Documents Required for Qatar Family Visit Visa
If applying for a visit visa for wife and children
While applying through Metrash, the following documents should be uploaded:
- Visitor’s passport copy (minimum validity of 6 months)
- Proof of relationship (Wife: Marriage Certificate / Children: Birth Certificate)
- Round-trip flight tickets
Employment details are not required when applying through the Metrash app, as currently labour contracts are linked with the Metrash system.
If applying for a visit visa for other relatives
Only married expatriates with family in Qatar can apply to sponsor other relatives.
While applying through Metrash, the following documents should be uploaded:
- Visitor’s passport copy (minimum validity of 6 months)
- Proof of relationship (Birth Certificate, Passport, etc.)
- Round-trip flight tickets
Qatar Family Visit Visa Fee
Qatar Family Visit Visa fee is QAR 200 for 30 days. The entry visa can be extended by paying QAR 200 per month.
- Medical check-up: A medical check-up for a visa extension costs QAR 100.
- Fine for overstaying: The fine for overstaying beyond the allowed period is QR 200 per day.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Validity
Qatar Family Visit Visas are initially issued for one month (30 days). After the visitor enters Qatar and undergoes a medical test, the visa can be further extended for another five months for spouses and children (total 180 days) and two more months for other relatives (total 90 days).
Health insurance needs to be taken for the additional period.
As the rules may change from time to time, an extension beyond 90 90-day stay is not guaranteed. If you are planning to extend for 5 more months (after one month) please confirm with the Immigration Department before purchasing additional insurance.
Number of Days To Enter Qatar After Visa Approval
Once the visa is approved, it will have the “visa valid till” date printed on the top. This is the last date for entry to Qatar (not the last date of stay in Qatar). Currently, it is 90 days from the date of visa approval. Visitors cannot use this visa after this date.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Application
Traditionally, applying for a family visit visa was to visit any Ministry of Interior (MoI) Service Centre and submit copies of the documents along with the printed application form.
In 2018, Qatar introduced an online system where residents can apply for family visit visas through the Metrash2 mobile.
Through this service, you can upload all the required documents in the specified fields. You can also track the application status and pay the fees electronically once approved.
How To Apply For Qatar Family Visit Visa Online
Below are the steps to apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa using the Metrash mobile app.
Step 1. Open the Metrash2 app on your mobile and log in
If you haven’t registered for Metrash2, see our comprehensive Metrash2 User Guide.
Step 2. Click on the “Visa” icon
Step 3. Click on the “Issue Visa” icon
Step 4. Click on the “Family Visit” icon
Step 5. Select “Family Visa Application”
Make sure to select “Family Visa Application”, not “Family Resident Application”.
Step 6. Click on “New Application”
Step 7. Fill up the details of the visitor
The details to fill up include Gender, Relation, Nationality, Date of Birth, Passport Details etc.
Step 8. Click on the “Validate” button
Step 9. Upload the required photos or scans of the documents
- Document scans/photos must be clear and readable.
- For documents with multiple pages, you must combine both photos/scans to create one JPG file.
- When uploading passports, photo and bio pages should be on the same side.
- For “Marriage Certificate (Others)”, you can upload the attested backside of the marriage certificate.
- Often a birth certificate is asked to prove your relationship with the visitor. If this is unavailable, you can also use any other document proving the relationship.
Step 10. You will receive an update after a few days
If there are any missing or mismatched documents, you will be notified to make the required changes. After verifying and approving the application, you will receive an application number.
The application status will change to “Under Process”, “Under Review” and again to “Under Process” before getting approved.
Step 11. Pay the required fee
Once the visa is approved, you have to pay the visa fee (QR 200) online via Metrash. To make the payment, go to the “Visa Fees Payment” icon on the “Visa Operation” page.
Step 12. Buy health insurance
From April 2023, health insurance needs to be taken after the visit visa is approved (not during application).
Once your visa is approved, you will receive a message to buy the insurance. While buying the insurance, enter the visa number and it will be updated in the Metrash system. The visa can be printed only after insurance has been purchased.
After this, you can download the visa copy and send it to the visitor for travel.
How To Check the Status of Family Visit Visa
You can see the status on your Metrash app itself.
You can also check the family visit visa status on the Ministry of Interior website under Inquiries >> Visa Services >> Visa Approval Tracking (link).
Enter the application number and application date or sponsor’s QID number. Make sure all the required details are filled in correctly, and you’ll be able to check your visa status.
Applying Family Visit Visa Offline
The Ministry of Interior (MOI) no longer entertains offline applications for family visit visas. You are required to apply via the Metrash mobile app.
Family Visit Visa Rejected: What To Do
There may be several reasons why your family visit visa application is rejected. Often it is due to submitting wrong or insufficient documents.
If the document photo is not clear or not attested (in the case of a marriage certificate), you can do the attestation and resubmit again. However, it is imperative to understand the reason and fix it before applying again.
Applications can also be rejected if the applicant (a Qatar resident) does not comply with the required conditions (salary or profession). If the application is rejected due to the applicant not meeting the salary requirement, it would be difficult to get approved again.
However, in case of rejection due to profession, you can try to meet the Captain at the Immigration Office in Duhail, and request for reconsideration. Sometimes he would approve if the profession is acceptable.
How To Cancel Visa Application In Metrash
If your application is still under review or process, you can cancel it by clicking on the right arrow on the status page. If this option is not available, you will have to visit any MOI Service Center.
Document Checklist for Family Visit Visa Travellers
- Passport (minimum validity of 6 months)
- Visa printout
- Two-way flight tickets
- Health insurance
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How To Extend Family Visit Visa
As the initial visa is issued for one month only, the sponsor has to extend it within the first month to avoid any penalties.
Relatives wishing to stay beyond one month must undergo a medical test within a few days. Here is the detailed process of the medical test for a visit visa extension.
Once the medical examination is passed, the visit visa can be extended online using the Metrash mobile app (Visa –> Visa Services –> Extend Visa) or by visiting any MOI service centre.
Other Points To Note
If the return ticket is after 30 days, some airlines may not allow visitors to board the flight since the initial visa is only for 30 days. So make sure to book a flight ticket that can be modified with a minimum change fee. In this way, once the visitor reaches Qatar, the ticket dates can be modified.
As this is an online visa, some airlines may require an “OK to Board” status in their system before departure. You can get this status by showing the visa copy to the airline’s Doha office.
“Null” Status on Visit Visa Application Receipt
Some of our readers have raised concerns that the receipt they received after application submission shows “null” in most fields.
Please note that this is normal for all applicants. This document is only an acknowledgement that they received your application. Your application details will be in the system.
Visit Visa Application “Under Process” and “Under Review” Status
Applicants often get confused about changes to their visit visa application status. It is normal that each visit visa application moves through “Under Process” and “Under Review” statuses multiple times before approval.
If your application status changes between these two, you do not have to do anything. In most cases, the application will be approved within days of a status change.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Approval Time
As of 2024, the average approval time for a Family Visit Visa is 1-4 weeks. Please note that applications are processed in batches and may not be on a first-come first-serve basis.
Here is a video explaining the Family Visit Visa application process:
You can also watch the same video with Malayalam and Hindi audio. Please subscribe to the Doha Guides YouTube channel for more videos.
READ NEXT: How To Convert Family Visit Visa To Residence Visa
FAQ on Qatar Family Visit Visa
What is the salary requirement for a family visit visa in Qatar?
To apply for a family visit visa for your spouse and children, a minimum salary of QR 5,000 is required; for other relatives, a minimum salary of QR 10,000 is required.
What is the cost of a family visit visa in Qatar?
A Qatar family visit visa costs QAR 200 (USD 55) per month.
How can I apply for a family visit visa in Qatar via Metrash?
You can apply for a family visit visa online by filling in the visitor details and uploading document scans or photos. Step-by-step instructions can be found on this page.
How can I extend my Qatar family visit visa?
You can extend the one-month visit visa after a medical check-up. There is a renewal fee of QAR 200 per month for each additional month.
Can I convert my family visit visa to a residence visa in Qatar?
Yes, if you are eligible to sponsor your spouse and children, you can convert your family visit visa to a residence visa.
Is Qatar Family Visit Visa multiple entry?
No, the Qatar Family Visit Visa is a single-entry visa.
I cannot find the option to upload health insurance in Metrash. What to do?
From April 2023, health insurance need not be uploaded on Metrash. You have to buy the insurance after the visa has been approved. While buying insurance, add your visa number and it will be automatically updated in the system.
READ NEXT: Visa Changing Process via Abu Samra Land Border
Related Guides:
- Qatar Family Residence Visa Procedure and Requirements
- How Can A Wife Sponsor Husband in Qatar
- Medical Test For Family Visit Visa Extension
- Qatar Visa On Arrival: Complete Guide
- Qatar Visit Visa Types, Requirements, and Procedure
- Medical Test For Family Residence Permit in Qatar
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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.
Hi DG Team,
My family arrived on a visit visa on February 3, 2023, but I now have a Hayya entry permit for them. How can I switch from a visit visa to a Hayya entry permit for them? and where I can do this.
Hi Mohamed, We don’t think that is possible as they are already inside Qatar. They can re-enter using Hayya when they leave (after visit visa expiry). You may double check with Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999.
HI
DG my family (wife & daughter) here is on visit visa, can i go for UMRAH Toghether since there visa status enter is Single.
please advise.
Hi Aftab, Normally you will not be allowed to come back if it is single entry visa. You can recheck with the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-44069999.
Hi DG
You’re giving 100% correct details .thank u !!!!!
Family visit visa approved now and waiting for update about RP
Hi Arun,
When did you applied for family visit visa?
And when did you get the approval?
Hi Ashraf,
Applied date :31st Jan
Approved date :08th Feb
Please go to Gharafa immigration
Hi Arun,
I applied on 1st February. Today my husband went to Gharaffa immigration and they told “ if you didn’t get approval within February 15th please come back then”
Hope it will approved soon
Thank you Arun. Congratulations!
Hi, if someone has left the country before 23rd January and now Hayya entry permit is available. Can the person come on family visit instead of hayya ? Will they approve family visit ?
Hi Sanjeewa, Yes, you can apply. Once the family visit is approved, he/she can come.
Hi DG ,
is it is possible to apply and get aproval for family visit within 180 days of time limit ?
Hi Shaal, As far as we know (from the experience of others) Metrash doesn’t allow that now. You can check on your Metrash.
Can i extend my family visit visa upto 6. Months??
Hi Isha, Those who tried until last week were only given 3 months. If your still have visa validity, you can try later.
Good morning
Dear sir,
how to apply visit visa in qatar, because i have to bring my relative, it’s possible, can u you explain to me, how can i do.
thanks.
Hi Thilina, For family visit visa, if your relative is spouse or children, you need a salary of QR 5000. If it is parents, siblings or in-laws you need a salary of QR 10000. If you meet the requirements you can apply through Metrash. Please read the article and follow the steps for application.
Hi Doha Guide,
My family visit visa was “Deferred” status since January 2023, I have visited Gharaffa MOI office last Sunday ( 05/02/2023) and got approved on same day.
Now they started to allow for follow up.
Thank you DG I have followed your website last 2 months and you given clear and latest updates for family visit visa.
Hi Ameer, Congratulations and thanks a lot for sharing your experience.
My husband applied for family visit visa last Jan 27 but until now its under process (FEB 7). What should we do?
Hi Le, It is normal. It would be approved soon.
Did you get approval?
Guys Visit visa is extended till 3 months…
U mean total 3 months ..?
Yes
Hi Shoaib, Thanks for sharing.
Family visit visa on Metrash2 is showing rejected! How to apply again?
Hi Vidya, If the application is still showing, you may need to remove the old application by visiting MOI Service Centre.
I applied for family visit visa for my husband on 10th January still it shows under process when it will get approval? Anyone knows
Hi Kavya,
Same for me. I applied on 14th Jan and was showing under process till yesterday. I visited Gharafa immigration today (05th Feb) and they approved my visa. My wife’s still under process, but Visa number is generated. Please go directly and check. Hope you get the approval soon.
Please Are private company employees allowed inside the Gharafa MOI now for Visa purpose?
Hi,
For visit visa, I think they are allowing now. I went today and there was no problem with the entry. For residence visa, my colleague came with me to check, the answer is still “check back after 2-3 weeks”.
Hi,
How many days will be taken to get approval for family visit visa?
I have applied on 1st February. If anybody got approval last week please reply me.
Thanks…
Visit Pearl immigration office, I did the same
Did they approve?
If possible family visiting visa extended up to 6 months
Hi Kanakalingam, You need to check directly at MOI Service Center (when you are going for renewal).
Is there any possibility to extend( 6 months) family visit visa
Hi Dhanya, You need to check directly at MOI Service Center (when you are going for renewal).
They said no! It’s still same max 3 months!
Hi Joan, Thanks for sharing.
IS THE TRACEL INSURANCE TAKEN AT THE TIME OF VISIT VISA APPLICATION AND THE MANDATORY HEALTH INSURANCE SAME OR WE NEED TO TAKE BOTH FOR ENTERING AFTER FEB 1
Hi Hari, Normally travel insurance comes with health coverage. If the travel insurance is from any of the 10 approved insurance companies in Qatar, you can show that. More details are here: https://www.dohaguides.com/health-insurance-for-visitors-to-qatar/
Hi DG & All,
Please advise if the visit visa extension will be for 5 months like before or if it will still only be for 2 months.
Thank you.
Hi Karthik, We are not sure as we don’t know anyone who extended for five months recently. Hope someone else will answer.
Applying for family visit visa on metrash but its only asking for marriage certificate insurance and return ticket and not asking for salary certificate or noc..is it ok?
If applying online no need of salary certificate and noc.
Hi Saira, Salary certificate and NOC is not needed for Metrash as it is linked with Labour contract now.
Hi All, 180 days gap rule from last visit visa is still available or removed, please update if anybody applied within 180 days for 2nd time and got approval or under process. Please update. Thanks
Hi. Good day! Is visit visa for my sister can be available thru offline application? Thank you!
Dear All
Please tell me what are the documents i need for my spouse visit visa.
should the following documents required?
1-no objection letter from my company
2-work contract
3-photocopy of company registration card