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.
Since August 2017, the State of Qatar has been allowing visa-free entry for citizens of more than 80 countries, making it the most open country in the Middle East.
After it was briefly suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19, Qatar’s visa-on-arrival service has resumed with some conditions. As of 2024, citizens of 90+ countries are eligible for a free Qatar Visa On Arrival.
This article explains all the requirements, eligible nationalities, application procedures, and visa renewal procedures, and answers the frequently asked questions about the free visa on arrival in Qatar.
- Visa-Free Entry
- Qatar Visa On Arrival New Rules & Updates
- Requirements for Qatar Visa On Arrival
- Nationalities Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to Qatar
- Special Conditions For Some Nationalities
- Visa Waiver For GCC Citizens
- Documents Checklist For Visa On Arrival Passengers
- Qatar Visa On Arrival Cost
- Procedure At the Immigration Counter
- How to Extend Qatar Visa On Arrival?
- FAQ on Qatar Visa on Arrival
Visa-Free Entry
Visa-free entry is now the new term defining previously “visa on arrival”. According to Qatar Tourism, nothing changed except the name.
Qatar Visa On Arrival New Rules & Updates
JANUARY 2024 STATUS
Nationals of India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand, and Ukraine are still required to book hotels through the Discover Qatar website. The hotel reservation should be for the entire duration of the stay. Hotel reservations from other websites are not accepted. Citizens of other countries may book their hotel through any website.
Purchasing a visitor’s health insurance is now required for an extension of visa on arrival.
Requirements for Qatar Visa On Arrival
1. Citizenship
The visitor must be a citizen of an eligible country (the list of countries is given below).
2. Passport Validity
The visitor’s passport must be valid for at least six months.
3. Confirmed Return Tickets
The visitor must have a confirmed return or onward ticket.
4. Accommodation
The visitor should have a confirmed accommodation (clear address and contacts of the local host) or hotel reservation for the duration of the stay. This can be a regular hotel booking for travellers from most countries. For hotel booking, we recommend TripAdvisor as it has the largest database of hotel reviews.
However, for citizens of India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and Ukraine, the hotel booking for the entire duration of the stay should be through the Discover Qatar website. Staying with a Qatar resident or booking directly with a hotel is not accepted for these nationalities (to avail visa on arrival).
A minimum of 2 nights should be booked through the Discover Qatar website. Cancellations within 48 hours of arrival are subject to a 100% cancellation fee.
Please note that even if you book the hotel for a longer duration, the initial visa issued will be for 30 days only. You need to extend that by visiting any MOI Service Center or the Airport Immigration office. The online extension may not be possible for these nationalities.
This requirement is only mandatory for travellers coming on a visa on arrival and not for family visit visas.
5. Health Insurance
As per the new law launched in February 2023, health insurance is mandatory for visitors who are staying for more than 30 days. Insurance is highly recommended even for visitors staying less than 30 days, but it is not mandatory.
Visitors can buy basic health insurance for QAR 50 (for 30 days) from any registered insurance company listed on the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) website.
6. Proof of Funds
From 10 March 2022, visitors from countries like India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran (using a visa-on-arrival facility) are required to have a valid international credit card or debit card. Cash of QR 5,000 will no longer be accepted (Belarus nationals can show USD 1,000 in cash).
- For debit cardholders, a three-month bank statement is also required. There should be a minimum balance equivalent to at least QR 5,000 in your local currency.
- The card should be under the name of the visitor. If you are travelling together as a family, one card (under the family head’s name) is enough.
- This rule applies only to nationalities that require proof of funds (like India, Pakistan, Thailand, Iran, etc.)
Nationalities Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to Qatar
The countries under this facility are divided into two categories as below:
Category 1: Visa waiver for 180 days
- Visa waiver valid is for 180 days from the date of entry.
- Visitors can stay for a total of 90 days, either during a single trip or multiple trips.
- The stay is not extendable beyond 90 days.
- Requirements are a passport (with 6 months validity), return/onward flight tickets, confirmed accommodation (local host details or hotel booking), and health insurance (if staying for 30 days).
The following are the countries included under this category:
| Antigua and Barbuda | Argentina | Austria |
| Bahamas | Belgium | Bulgaria |
| Croatia | Cyprus | Czech Republic |
| Denmark | Dominican Republic | Estonia |
| Finland | France | Germany |
| Greece | Hungary | Iceland |
| Italy | Latvia | Liechtenstein |
| Lithuania | Luxembourg | Malaysia |
| Malta | Netherlands | Norway |
| Poland | Portugal | Romania |
| Serbia | Seychelles | Slovakia |
| Slovenia | Spain | Sweden |
| Switzerland | Turkey | Ukraine [4] |
Category 2: Visa for 30 days
- The initial visa is issued for 30 days from the date of entry.
- For most countries, the stay can be extended for another 30 days.
- This is a single-entry visa.
- Requirements are a passport (with 6 months validity), return/onward flight tickets, confirmed accommodation, and health insurance (if staying for 30 days). Discover Qatar hotel booking and proof of funds will be required for some nationalities (explained below).
The following are the countries included under this category:
| Andorra | Australia | Azerbaijan |
| Belarus [6] | Bolivia | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Brazil | Brunei | Canada |
| Chile | China | Colombia |
| Costa Rica | Cuba | Ecuador |
| Falkland Islands [7] | French Guiana [7] | Georgia |
| Guyana | Hong Kong | India [1] |
| Indonesia | Iran [5] | Ireland |
| Japan | Kazakhstan | Lebanon |
| Macao [7] | Macedonia | Maldives |
| Mauritius [7] | Mexico | Moldova |
| Monaco | Montenegro [7] | New Zealand |
| Pakistan [2] | Panama | Paraguay |
| Peru | Russia | Rwanda |
| San Marino | Singapore | South Africa |
| South Korea | Taiwan (China) [7] | Thailand [3] |
| United Kingdom | United States | Suriname |
| Uruguay | Uzbekistan | Vatican City |
| Venezuela |
Special Conditions For Some Nationalities
In addition to the general conditions (passport valid for 6 months, round-trip flight tickets, confirmed accommodation, and health insurance), there are some special conditions applicable only to some countries, as explained below:
1. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Indian Nationals
A free on-arrival tourist visa is granted to Indian nationals for a maximum period of 30 days, or according to hotel reservation.
- (a) Confirmed hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
- (b) A credit or debit card per family is required. Proof of fund requirement is explained above.
2. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Pakistan Nationals
A free on-arrival tourist visa is granted to Pakistan nationals for a maximum period of 30 days, or according to hotel reservation.
- (a) Confirmed hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
- (b) A credit or debit card per family is required. Proof of fund requirement is explained above.
- (c) A polio vaccination certificate is required.
3. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Thailand Nationals
A free on-arrival tourist visa is granted to Thailand nationals for a maximum period of 30 days, or according to hotel reservation.
- (a) Confirmed hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
- (b) A credit or debit card per family is required. Proof of fund requirement is explained above.
- (c) Extension of stay possible for an additional 30 days.
4. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Nationals of Ukraine
A free on-arrival tourist visa is granted to Ukrainian nationals for a maximum period of 90 days, or according to hotel reservation.
- (a) Confirmed hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
- (b) An initial visa is issued for 30 days or as per the hotel booking. Visitors can apply to extend their stay up to a total of 90 days after obtaining health insurance upon arrival.
5. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Nationals of Iran
On-arrival tourist or business visa is granted to Iranian nationals for a fee, of up to 30 days or depending on hotel booking.
- (a) Confirmed hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
- (b) A tourist visa is valid for a maximum of one month for a fee of QR 100.
- (c) A credit card per family is required for a tourist visa.
- (d) Business visa for a period of one month and a maximum of six months for a fee of QR 200 per month. A business visa is granted if there is an invitation letter from a company that is certified by the Government of Qatar.
6. Qatar Visa On Arrival For Nationals of Belarus
On-arrival tourist or business visa is granted to Belarus nationals for a fee.
- (a) A tourist visa is valid for a maximum of one month for a fee of QR 100.
- (b) Business visa for a period of one month and a maximum of three months for a fee of QR 200 per month.
- (c) Possession of an amount of cash equivalent to 1,000 US Dollars or a valid credit card.
- (d) Hotel reservation in one of the hotels in Qatar during the visit period.
7. Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa-On-Arrival
Nationals of these countries can get Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa-On-Arrival. There may be a fee of QR 100 for 30 days.
Visa Waiver For GCC Citizens
In addition to the above countries, citizens of the GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) do not require a visa to enter Qatar.
Documents Checklist For Visa On Arrival Passengers
| Passport | Minimum six months validity |
| Flight Tickets | Return / onward flight tickets |
| Confirmed Accommodation | Discover Qatar booking for India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and Ukraine; Regular hotel booking or clear address of the stay for other countries. |
| Proof of Fund | Only for India, Pakistan, Thailand, Iran & Belarus. International Debit / Credit card should be under the visitor’s name (3 months bank statements also needed for debit card). One card per family. Cash is accepted only for Belarus nationals. |
| Health Insurance | Health insurance from a MOPH-approved provider (if staying for 30 days). |
Qatar Visa On Arrival Cost
Visa on arrival is granted entirely free of charge for most nationals, and there will be no charge for the extension. There may be a fee for nationals of some countries such as Iran and Belarus.
Travelling To Qatar
Procedure At the Immigration Counter
- During the check-in from your departure country, inform the airline staff that you are visiting on a visa on arrival. They may check your accommodation details. If you are staying with a relative, it is good to have their contact details, address, and QID copy.
- At the immigration counter in Doha, mention that you want a visa on arrival.
- Give the hotel’s / host’s contact details (name, contact number) if you are asked.
- Show credit or debit card if required (for some nationalities only)
- When asked, look at the camera for an iris scan (eye scan). A green light would blink to confirm this.
- A fingerprint scan may be required for some passengers.
- The immigration officer would fix a small sticker on your passport. That’s it. Welcome to Doha!
How to Extend Qatar Visa On Arrival?
If you are a citizen of a country eligible to extend the 30-day visa-on-arrival, you can do the renewal online.
Health Insurance For Visa Extension
Before purchasing the policy, make sure you are eligible for an extension by following the steps below. If you encounter an error message stating that “valid health insurance is not found,” you can proceed to purchase the policy.
To ensure eligibility for an extension, please follow the instructions below:
Purchase a health insurance policy from any MOPH-approved provider.
Add your visa number to the policy to ensure it is linked in the system.
Then proceed with the steps explained below.
Here is how you can extend your visa through the Ministry of Interior website:
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. Or else you can enter your passport number.
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.
Is there any fee for a Qatar visa on arrival extension?
Qatar visa on arrival can be extended free of cost.
How many days after arrival can I renew the visa?
You can renew any day after arrival. Make sure you do it before the expiry to avoid complications.
I did not get any message or e-mail after renewal. How can I check the validity?
You can check the validity of your visa on the Ministry of Interior website. Here is how to check the validity of a Qatar visa.
- Go to the MOI website Visa Inquiry & Printing page.
- Enter the visa number (available on the sticker in the passport) or passport number.
- Select nationality from the drop-down list.
- Enter verification code from picture or audio.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
- The details, including visa validity, will be shown.
- Click on the print icon to save or print a copy for future reference.
Do I need the renewal receipt while going back?
A receipt is not needed as the renewal date will be updated in the immigration system. However, you may keep a copy for your peace of mind.
Are GCC residents eligible to get a Qatar visa on arrival?
If you’re a resident of a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council), you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. The visa will only be issued if your residence permit is valid for at least three months and if your profession (as mentioned on your residence permit) appears on the list of eligible professions. You can see the list of eligible professions here.
What can I do if my nationality is not eligible for a visa-on-arrival?
Nationals of countries not eligible for visa-on-arrival can apply in advance for other types of visas such as tourist visas. You can check our detailed guide on how to apply for Qatar Tourist Visa.
Qatar Government Contact Center
Please note that even as we strive to keep this page updated, official policies are subject to change without prior announcement. For any query, travellers are advised to contact the Qatar Government Helpline at +974-4406 9999 or email [email protected] for any inquiries.
FAQ on Qatar Visa on Arrival
How can I get a free visa for Qatar?
You can get visa-free entry to Qatar if you hold a passport from any of the 90+ eligible countries. You can see the full list of countries on this page. There may be additional requirements for some countries.
Is there any age limit on visas on arrival?
There is no specified age limit for visas on arrival. However, airlines may refuse to board minors not accompanied by an adult. If a minor is travelling alone, please check with your airline.
Is a medical check-up needed to extend visa-free entry
A medical check-up is not needed to extend visa-free entry. A medical check would be required for renewing a family visit visa only.
Are Indians eligible for a Qatar visa on arrival?
Indian citizens are eligible for 30 days of visa-free entry to Qatar if they meet some conditions such as Discover Qatar hotel booking and proof of funds.
How much is the fine for an expired visit visa in Qatar?
If the validity of your visit visa has expired, you will be charged a penalty of QAR 200 per day.
Is hotel booking required for Qatar on-arrival visa?
A confirmed accommodation (hotel booking or local address) is required for all visitors to get a visa on arrival. Discover Qatar hotel booking is required for citizens of India, Pakistan, Iran, Ukraine, and Thailand.
Should I use only Qatar Airways for my travel?
You can use any airline to Doha. There are no restrictions on the mode of travel. If you travel via another airline, ensure your airline knows about this Visa On Arrival facility. Some airline staff unaware of this facility may refuse to board you without a visa.
Should I show proof of funds/credit cards?
Proof of funds may be required for some nationalities. Please carry an International Credit / Debit card under your name with at least a QR 5,000 balance (one card per family).
Should I show the salary certificate or tenancy contract of my host?
The host’s salary certificate or tenancy contract is not required for a visa on arrival. There is no minimum salary requirement for anyone to host a visitor. However, you are advised to keep your host’s contact information ready to show if officers request it.
Related Articles:
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- Visitors Guide To Doha Expo 2023
- Qatar Family Residence Visa Procedure
- How Can A Wife Sponsor Husband in Qatar
- How To Change Passport Number in Qatar ID
- Check Qatar Visa Status Online
- Drinking Alcohol in Qatar: Important Rules To Know
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.
Sources: Qatar Ministry of Public Health, Qatar Airways, Qatar Tourism Authority (Visit Qatar)
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 DOHA GUIDE TEAMS,
As I am Cambodian and have plan to visit my boyfriend ( Australian) who is working there with my 2 small kids (1 year and 2 years old).
– Can We get the multiple visa on arrival ?
– Full stay booking hotel required ( As we will stay in the apartment of my boyfriend)?
– International Debit/Credit card under my name required?
Thanks for your kindly and time to read and reply back to my comments.
Hi Pachada, Please call the helpline on +974 4406 9999 to check as Cambodia is not in the list of visa on arrival. You can also check about the credit/debit card as it is required for some countries only. If you are eligible, hotel booking for the full duration will be required.
Can I give my wife my credit card for on-arrival visa requirements?
Hi Arsal, If the wife is travelling alone (without the cardholder) this may not be approved.
The Hotel booking cancel return the amount for it.
Hi, is full stay hotel booking required for Azerbaijan nationals? or i can show my relative’s address? also 5 years old child need hotel booking if he travels with father who is a Qatar resident?
Hi Kamran, Your application may be rejected if there is no hotel booking for the full duration of the visitors’ stay. You can make a booking and cancel after arrival.
Hello,
Im a resident of Germany but holding a Morocco passeport.
Does the ETA still apply?
do you have any idea what is the alternative to go to Qatar? on which visa.
thank you
Hi Maria, ETA website is not working now. You can try a visa on arrival by applying for Ehteraz pre-approval. Now they are approving even for countries that were earlier eligible for ETA.
Hello,
I am a GCC resident and among the list of accepted professions (university professor).
Please let me now what papers i need to carry for visa on arrival. There is no explicit information about this. I have an Indian passport and I will stay at my brother’s place in Qatar.
Thank you
Hi Team,
I am an indian, already in qatar on arrival visa and visa valid till may. Now i have to go to dubai for a few days visit, so can i come back from dubai to qatar with same on arrival visa. Is etheraz pre registration,pcr test required or not. what will be the quarentine policy. Kindly let us know the details.
Thanks
Hi Shijo, Since you are not a GCC resident you cannot claim Registration & PCR exemption. You will need Ehteraz pre-travel registration and RT-PCR test. Hotel quarantine is not needed as UAE is not on the Red List. But you will need a normal hotel booking for Ehteraz approval (You can cancel this booking later). Also, you need a return flight ticket or flight ticket to India within 1 month.
DEAR SIR
i am an indian want to bring my 2 years daughter visa 8n arrival with her mother ..mother is holding work visa is it ok my daughter can come visa on arrival and what is the requirements
Thanks
Hi Obedullah, Your daughter will need Ehteraz pre-approval. Please check this link.
Once I am visited qatar in on arrival visa.if I can again visit the on arrival visa after 3 years.
Hi Adithya, Of course, you can.
hi team,
As per MOI website, Indians cannot extend their on arrival visa and Visa is valid only for 30 days. Is it correct ?
Hi Sai, That’s not correct. That page on the MOI website has not been updated for several years. Several Indians have extended their visas this week.
Is prepaid forex card allowed as proof of funds?
Hi Jibran, If the card has your name and you have a bank document to prove the balance, it should be approved.
Hello
I am an Indian and planning to bring my wife to Qatar in On Arrival Visa for a period of 30 days. Here i have few queries, if you can provide me with a response will be thankful.
1) Is Hotel booking compulsory for my wife with on arrival visa, as she is going to stay with me during her stay in Doha. Except fulfilling hotel qurantine for 1 day, as is requirement.
Hi Muthukkumar, You need a hotel booking for the entire duration of the stay. You can cancel the booking once your wife has reached Qatar.
Which countries require ‘proof of funds’?
Hi Poppie, As per the circular from some airlines, a Debit/Credit Card is needed for travellers from India, Pakistan, Belarus and Iran. Not sure if there is any other country. Please check with your airline.
HI,
I am Qatar Resident, I want to bring my wife to Qatar on arrival visa she don’t have a bank account debit card or credit card, i am her husband and I have a debit or credit so and I am tha head of family for my wife and I am staying in Qatar she is traveling alone , I can upload my bank details like debit card with three months bank statement or credit card with bank statement on behalf of her , can you plz reply me as soon as possible .,
Note: what is the duration for visa on arrival we can extend more 30 days also ??
Hi Mohammed, the head of family rule is only applicable when you are travelling together as a family. However, you can try to convince the approving officer of your situation by uploading your QID and marriage certificate along with card details. This may or may not work. Regarding the extension, it depends on your nationality. We have seen that visas for Pakistani nationals are not being extended nowadays.
Due to US Sanctions on Iran, Iranians cannot get Visa or Mastercard. Mandatory credit card effectively mean Iranians cannot get visa on arrival. Other visa routes including family visit visa also gets rejected most of the time. So effectively with this policy from March 10 most Iranians are not allowed in Qatar.
My mother has booked a ticket since weeks ago to visit me and my children but if this is not fixed, we may be forced to cancel our plans and refund the ticket and pay charges to Qatar airways.
Also I asked MOI and they said visa on arrival is not extendable.
I am a Pakistani passport holder I have been to passport department many times but I am not extending visa for another 30 days just to Pakistani passport holders
Hi Matloob, Yes, this is a recent update.
i have booked ticket for my wife on march 24th for on arrival but she doesn’t have credit card or debit card so i dont know what to do now
1)is it okay if she travel with my uncle as a family member and uncle’s debit card with statement or
2) i have cbq debit card is it okay if i go and travel back with her here using my debit card and statement as a family head
please kindly help
thank you
Hi Rakesh, If you are applying for Ehteraz approval together (as one application), your uncle’s debit card with bank statement may be enough. You can add a note that you are one family.
I am from Pakistan and want to extend visiting visa for 30 day i try this online but zero daya extend message display now what is the process to extend visa for 30 days. Kindly guide
Thanks
Hi Sadaqat, We have seen that visas for Pakistani nationals are not being extended nowadays.
Are Pakistanis are eligible to extend the on arrival visa for another 30 days?
Hi Abdul Wahab, We have seen that visas for Pakistani nationals are not being extended nowadays. You can check with the MOI helpline for confirmation.
Hello,
I am an Indian and planning to bring my Mother to Qatar in On Arrival Visa for a period of 60 days. Here I have few queries, if you can provide me with a response will be thankful.
1) Is Hotel booking compulsory for my mother with on arrival visa, as she is going to stay with me during her stay in Doha. Except fulfilling hotel qurantine for 1 day, as is requirement.
2) Do she have to show her financial status (International Debit or credit card with more than QAR 5000? or is enough with my financial state?
Hi Rajdeep,
1) Hotel booking is compulsory for the full duration of stay (apart from 1-day hotel quarantine). You can cancel the booking once she arrives.
2) As per the latest update, a bank card under the traveller’s name is compulsory.
Hi Doha guide team. Is debit card needed for Azerbaijan people? Also what does it mean bank statement for last 3 months? If i get a new debit card and put 5000 QR in it it will not accepted? my card should be older than 3 months? and what you mean by last 3 months statement?
Hi Ali, We are not sure if this is needed for Azerbaijan nationals. Please check with your airline.