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 09 November 2025
Since August 2017, Qatar has offered visa-free entry to citizens of more than 80 countries, making it one of the most open and welcoming destinations in the Middle East.
Today, travellers from over 100 countries can enter Qatar without applying for a visa in advance. This policy was previously known as “visa on arrival”, but the term has now been updated to “visa-free entry” — with no changes to the process or requirements.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Qatar’s visa-free entry, including eligible nationalities, entry requirements, step-by-step procedures, and answers to common questions.
- What is "Visa-Free Entry" to Qatar?
- Current 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
What is “Visa-Free Entry” to Qatar?
Visa-free entry is now the new term defining previously “visa on arrival”. According to Qatar Tourism, nothing changed except the name.
Current Requirements for Qatar Visa On Arrival
1. Citizenship
The visitor must be a citizen of an eligible country.
2. Passport Validity
The visitor’s passport must be valid for at least six months. In some cases, three-month validity is accepted/
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 a 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.
Discover Qatar Hotel Requirement
The Ministry of Interior (MOI) currently requires travellers holding passports from some countries to book a Discover Qatar Visa on Arrival (VOA) hotel package before travelling to Qatar.
- For nationals of India, although the official Visit Qatar website currently states only that “a hotel booking on arrival is required,” the Discover Qatar site explicitly includes India in the list of nationalities for which a hotel booking through Discover Qatar is mandatory. Therefore, please double‑check your eligibility before travelling.
- Nationals of Pakistan, Thailand and Iran 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.
- 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.
- Even if you book a hotel for a longer stay, the initial visa will be valid for 30 days only. To extend your stay, you must visit any MOI Service Centre or the Airport Immigration office, as online extensions may not be available for certain nationalities.
- This requirement is only mandatory for travellers coming on a visa on arrival and not for Hayya visas or family visit visas.
Please note that additional nationalities may be included in this requirement at the discretion of the State of Qatar. For the latest details on visa regulations and entry conditions, visit the official Visit Qatar website.
5. Health Insurance
Since February 2023, health insurance has been 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
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
- A visa waiver is valid 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 |
- IMPORTANT NOTE:
- The list of eligible countries are conditions of entry are subject to change by official authorities. Please check your eligibility on the official Visit Qatar website before travelling.
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) A confirmed hotel reservation is required.
- (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 Pakistani 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 citizens of Thailand 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 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.
5. 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.
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 (three months is acceptable for some nationalities) |
| Flight Tickets | Return / onward flight tickets |
| Confirmed Accommodation | Discover Qatar booking for India, Pakistan, Iran, and Thailand. Regular hotel booking or a clear address of the stay for other countries. |
| Proof of Fund | Only for India, Pakistan, Thailand, Iran & Belarus. An International Debit / Credit card should be under the visitor’s name (3 months’ bank statements are also needed for a 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 of QR 100 for nationals of some countries, such as Iran and Belarus.
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Procedure At the Immigration Counter
- During the check-in at 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
Health insurance is now mandatory for stays longer than 30 days. 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?
A 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 email 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 the verification code from the 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 a Qatar Tourist Visa.
Qatar Government Contact Centre
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 a 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 a hotel booking required for the 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 the 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.
- IMPORTANT NOTE:
- The list of eligible countries are conditions of entry are subject to change by official authorities. Please check your eligibility on the official Visit Qatar website before travelling.
Related Articles:
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Application Guide
- Visitors’ Guide To Doha Expo 2023
- Qatar Family Residence Visa Procedure
- How Can A Wife Sponsor a 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 – Unauthorised 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)
Can Travellers from india book accommodation on FIFA accommodation agency ?
Hi Rahul, Visitors from India need a Discover Qatar booking for a visa on arrival. FIFA accommodation is not acceptable now.
If you are asking about visiting during World Cup, the visa rules are expected to change at that time, and there is a chance that FIFA accommodation may be accepted.
Hello ,
Q1. As mentioned there for Indian visitors 1 Day quarantine is compulsory for Red health measures country , hotel to be booked by discoverqatar .
Ex: Flight arrival time is 03:00 local time 2nd december , when will be the check in time in hotel ? And is it 24 hours quarantine from the time of check-in?
Q2. For condition vaccines Serology antibody test is compulsory , is there any list of hopsitals or Test centres approved by MOPHC Qatar.
Q3. For hotel accommodation other than quarantine, can we book through FIFA accomodation agency.
Q4. For hotel checkout date and time , should we book return flight on the same day and what must be the time difference with flight?
Hi Rahul, Here are the answers:
Q1. You should check directly with your hotel as regular check-in times only start in the afternoon.
Q2. You can do a Serology antibody test from any center approved by ICMR.
Q3. For a visa on arrival, Indian nationals must book the hotel through Discover Qatar for the full duration of their stay. FIFA accommodation will not work.
Q4. A visa will be issued only for the days you booked through DQ. The check-out should be on the day of your departure.
Hi,
I am traveling to Oslo, Norway but I have two separate tickets one from Islamabad to Doha and another from Doha to Norway and the duration between the two flights are 3 hours and 10 mints. I aneed to check out and collect my luggage at Doha airport and then check-in for my next flight. Do I need to go through immigration to collect my luggage and do I نیٹ pcr test Just for these 3 hours?
Hi Saderq, Departure and arrival are on two different levels of HIA airport. If you are leaving through the arrival area (to check in from the departure area), you still need to complete all formalities of visa on arrival. This includes PCR testing and Ehteraz approval.
hi, my daughters are under 12 and travelling with their grandmother to visit their father in Doha – are they eligible for visa on arrival as they are not yet vaccinated but their grandmother is?
Hi Alexandra, unvaccinated children would be eligible for visas on arrival when they are traveling with vaccinated family members. You can call Govt Contact Center on +974-4406 9999 to confirm this.
Thanks, could you also direct me to the MOPH/MOI guidance where it says you have to be fully vaccinated to get visa on arrival as I cannot find this written on any of their websites or policies, only on your webpage. Can you direct me to an official document that states this?
Hi Alexandra, Unvaccinated visitors from Standard health countries can get visas but need to book five days of hotel quarantine. Unvaccinated visitors from Red health countries are not eligible for visas on arrival. This information is available on the Qatar MOPH website. We have rewritten our article to avoid confusion and make it more clear.
Thanks – to be aware I was turned away at LHR despite having Etheraz, hotel quarantine booking and negative PCR because QR were also claiming that visa on arrival would not be given to unvaccinated travellers from the UK. I have raised a formal complaint because this is articulated in no official policy or indeed Qatar Airways’ own guidance but its a warning to travellers that they are imposing this restriction despite there being no official statement to that effect.
Hi Alexandra, Sorry to hear that. We had this doubt and sent an email to the government helpline this week. They confirmed by email that unvaccinated travelers from standard health countries could get visas on arrival by booking five days hotel quarantine. Sometimes the rules are not well communicated, and officials are also confused. Anyways, thanks for sharing your experience. Let us know if you get any feedback on your complaint.
Today my father came on onarrival visa form India with 30days discover qatar booking. But he got only 15 days stay visa. I tried to extend through MOI website but it says it is not extendable. Is there any other way to extend. The visa validity is 30 days but 15 day stay only.
Hi Feroze, Please visit Airport immigration with his passport, return ticket and hotel booking.
Hi I have on arrival visa and now over stay here . Now i want to pay fine and want to get some relaxation in fine also? where I can go for fine relaxation?
Hi Rabia, You can visit the airport immigration office and request.
I want visit visa from india to qatar
Hi I am a permanent resident in Ireland and I am a Filipino and I have a Philippines passport. Am I eligible to have the visa free entry as I am considered an EU resident? Thanks
How can I renewed again my visa on arrival after 90days?thank you
I have received a Sputnik light (requires only one dose).
Is it accepted as conditional vaccination, requiring Antigen test?
If i get a visa on arrival, will i have to take a new covid test to get back into the Airport?
dear Doha guide,
I m planning to visit doha next month …. regarding the Vaccine :
i have 2 doses of Pfizer 2nd dose in June 2021 …. it will be ok ???
my son 8 years will be there also with me … need any PCR (Not vaccinated)??
Hello, I am from Uzbekistan. I want to visit Qatar as a tourist. But here is no info about traveling for Uzbek citizens. How can i get more info related to Uzbek visitors?
I am a malyasian. I have 20 hours transit in Doha. Barcelona – Doha – transit 20 hours – Kuala Lumpur.
Can I go out during transit?
Did you find the answer to this. I need to travel as well with my GCC resident visa and an Indian passport. Is the hotel booking still required ?
Are they still issuing GCC Resident Visa on arrival based on profession? This visa is different from free visa on arrival for Indians right and does not require hotel booking?
I am coming from Pakistan -to- UAE -to- Qatar, kindly advise about documents for visa on arrival as I have relative there and residence is arranged and will not stay in Hotel.
hi
Can I get visa on arrival with Nigerian passport resident in UK with indefinite leave to remain.
thank you
I m algerien with permit residence in uk can I get visa in arrival
I would like to invite my family to visit Qatar, on a visa-on-arrival basis. Do I need to book a hotel or they can stay with me on my accommodation during the visit?
Hello sir
How are you I have pakistani passport and I have also Ukrainian permanent residence permit but now I am in Pakistan I visit moldova Embassy in Doha but I have no bank account in Pakistan I have Ukrainian debit card can I travel with out bank account or pakistani credit card please help me I have money in cash