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:
- Qatar Family Visit Visa Application Guide
- 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 I am an Indian national traveling from USA, I am trying to book a hotel on discover Qatar after oct 15th but it is not showing any availability. And the e-visa is also not showing up. Is there any other way that I can get a visa ?
Hi Nash, Please email to [email protected]
I am holding citizenship of India and currenlty residing in Germany. I will have transit flight via Qatar. does i Need to make a pre registration for travelling to Qatar. Because it is asking Visa number to enter in Qatar.
Hi Ashish, Pre-registration is not needed for transit passengers.
Hi Doha Guide,
I am Malaysian citizen and plan to have a short visit to Qatar in mid October. Am I allowed to do so as I heard that visit visa will be freeze due to upcoming FIFA World Cup. What are the requirements if it is still open for visitor?
Many thanks.
Illa
Hi Illa, You can come on a visa on arrival until 1 November. After that, only Hayya Card holders can visit.
Hi Doha Guide,
I am a Pakistani National, but I live in Belgium. I have a Belgian residence card valid till 31st Oct 2023. And I will be traveling from Bangkok to Brussels via Doha. I will stay in Doha for just 21 hours. Do I still need a hotel booking, as I will not stay for the night?
Hi Syed, Please call Ehteraz helpline on +974-4406 9999.
Hi Doha Guide Team!
I am a pakistani national but a UAE resident, I want to visit my Brother & family in Qatar
I am a house wife and have one infant,
Is it mandatory to mention hotel bookings on arrival or mentioning my brother’s address and his contact details will be enough please reply as i want to visit soon.
Hi Noora, It is better to book a hotel and cancel it after reaching. As this is an official requirement, your airline may not allow you to board.
Hi good day! I’m a Filipino citizen but currently working in Saudi Arabia as a Nurse. I’m planning to visit qatar on Oct.27- Nov.5. I have already all the above mentioned requirements. Am I eligible for the visa on arrival? I have been trying to get online e-visa but as per the site they are not releasing online visa. What to do now? Please help me with this problem.
Hi Ja, As a resident of KSA, you can get a GCC Resident visa on arrival. Please see this article for more details: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-for-gcc-residents/
Does Canadian citizens can enter Qatar in the month of October 2022?
what are the requirements?
Thanks
Bhavin
Hi Bhavin, Yes, As of now, there are no restrictions for entry in October. Just follow the above-mentioned requirements (Return ticket, Hotel booking, Ehteraz approval, Covid test etc).
Thank you for your reply, hotel booking is mandatory?
Hi Bhavin, Yes, It is mandatory for approval. But you can cancel after reaching.
Hi!
I’m an Indian citizen and a GCC resident(UAE). Do I need to travel from the country of residence in order to be eligible to avail the visa on arrival for GCC residents or can I travel from a third country and still avail the visa.
Regards,
Hi Rajiv, For a GCC visa on arrival, you should travel from a GCC country. Or else it would be considered a visa on arrival based on Indian nationality, and you would be required to book a hotel through Discover Qatar (which is not possible now).
I have apply for pre registration on ehteraz yesterday and till now no response recieved also I have my brother in law in qatar and my stay will be with him for 3 days than I will leave for UK and on 12 October from UK to paksitan ,plz let me know still hotel booking required ?
I have return ticket of qatar airways ,my flight will be on 1 October 2022 to qatar and 4 October to UK.
Hi Idrees, Please call the helpline on +974-4406 9999.
Hi, if the layover in Doha is less than 14 hours, I assume I will not need to book a hotel as I will be in Doha only for a few hours during the day. Hope that’s not an issue for visa on arrival? Please advise
Hi PG, Please confirm with +974-4406 9999 as these rules keep changing frequently. If they confirm, make sure to do Ehteraz registration and covid test.
I am in similar situation – can you share if they really need hotel for such short few hours stay? I have 9 hours stopover and will just go out for a few hours of sightseeing and meal. Do I still need to book a hotel?
Hi I am and indian national, a resident of Saudi Arabia with my family. I wish to travel to Qatar by road from Saudi Arabia with my family and parents in October first week. Parents are in visit visa and I am a professional. Could you advise if my parents can obtain an on arrival visa from the land port. Also advice on any additional requirements. All are fully vaccinated.
Hi Swathy, Please check the requirements here: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-for-gcc-residents/
Note that your parents will only be allowed if they are under your sponsorship. Normal visa on arrival for Indians requires Discover Qatar hotel booking, which is closed now. For more details, please call the government helpline at +974-4406 9999.
Egyptian national with UAE residency is eligible to enter Qatar and get A visa at the airport and what are a special list for Egyptian professions
Hi Hassan, The above list is common for all nationalities. You can call +974-4406 9999 to check about GCC residents visa for Egyptians.
hello
I come from Iran and My ticket is for 21 October 2022 to doha destination. Thicket was confirmed on qatar airways and It is supposed to issue visa on arrival, but now It is impossible to book a hotel on discover qatar booking while this booking is a pre-requisite for getting visa on arrival.
What should I do?
Hi Maryam, Please call Discover Qatar at +974 4423 7103 or Ehteraz helpline at +974-4406 9999.
This is with regards to visa on arrival.
Visitor From India, Travelling on 20th September 2022 and Returning on 27th September 2022. I Applied for Ehteraz pre registeration and returned for action mentioning upload Visa on Arrival hotel booking.
As per Discover Qatar September 15th is the last check in date. What is the option for the visitor to travel.
Hi Santo, Please call Discover Qatar at +974 4423 7103 or Ehteraz helpline at +974-4406 9999.
Why is our working Visa’s delaying?
Hi,
I am visiting a relative (cousin) who is a resident in Qatar, could I give their details and address instead of hotel booking for visa on arrival?
Hi Tanya, What is your nationality?
Hi,
UK Nationality
Hi Tanya, You can book any hotel with free cancellation and cancel once you reach Qatar.
Hi Doha Guide Team,
Kindly advise, if anyone wants to come on 18th Sep22 and Discover Qatar is not taking checkin after 15th Sep2022. how can an india citizen visit to Doha. However, MOI is clearly saying that there is no restriction from their end and Discover Qatar is saying that it’s from MOI policy and they can’t do anything.
Please Advise.
Hi Vinod, There is still some confusion regarding this. Please call +974-4406 9999.
Dear Doha Guide Team, I called the above number, but they are saying they don’t have any update and why discover Qatar is not taking any Hotel Booking for month of September. There is a lot of ambiguity on the on arrival visa process.
Would appreciate if you can clarify.
Hi Syed, We received the same reply when we checked about this.
I am a Filipino citizen residing and working in Saudi Arabia. I am planning to have a short visit to Doha, Qatar this coming October. I’m going to travel by land through Abu Samra border, but I am not eligible for a visa on arrival as my profession (physiotherapy) is not on the list eligible for visa-on-arrival. How and where to apply a pre-approved tourist visa?
Hi Nanie, Tourist visa service is currently suspended. You can check with +974-4406 9999.
Why Bangladesh is not there in the list can you explain ? Thankyou !
Hi Afsar, The list is announced by Qatar Government and updated from time to time.
Can a USA citizen cruise passenger get a visa waiver upon arrival in the port of Doha?
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is telling us that there is a $99/pp charge!
Hi Sue, Normally visa waiver is issued free of cost to US citizens. Maybe your Cruise company is processing a tourist visa. You can call the Government helpline on +974-4406 9999 to confirm about visa for cruise passengers.
Hello,
what happens if Indian nationals need to travel to Qatar in the period between October 15 (latest checkout date for VOA hotels) and November 1 (Hayya card)? Are they eligible for visa on arrival? Or whom should I contact to get information?
Thank you in advance.
Hi Kristyna, We are awaiting more announcements on this subject. You can call the Government helpline on +974-4406 9999.
Did you get any news or update on this? please share as I am in similar situation.
Sir I have done my bechelar degree in geology
I want to Qatar sir I have required visa
I love qater
Hello! I am a Philippine National holding a resident visa here in Germany. Actually I came here in Germany since January 31, 2022 and currently working here as a Nurse. My flight was on October 10, 2022 and I booked my hotel already. But Philippines is not stated above as one of the eligible countries. Is it possible for me to enter Qatar or can I get a Qatar Visa upon arrival? I look forward for your early reply. Thank you.
Hi Cerenessa, Please email [email protected] to see if there is an option.