Planning a holiday from Qatar to Istanbul’s lively streets, Ephesus’ ancient ruins or the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia? Turkey is a well-known among Qatari residents and citizens, with its rich history, culture, food and natural wonders. But before you start packing your luggage, you need to know the visa procedure.
Do Qatari Citizens Need a Visa for Turkey?
No. Qatari citizens living in Qatar do not need a visa to enter Turkey for tourism or business purposes. They can stay in Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. However, their passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date of arrival in Turkey.
Do Residents of Qatar Need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes, expatriates and residents of Qatar who are not Qatari citizens will typically require a visa to enter Turkey. The type of visa and the application method are based on your nationality.
Turkey Visas for Residents in Qatar
Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may be eligible to apply for a:
- Tourist Visa: For leisure or visiting family
- Business Visa: For attending meetings or conferences
- Student Visa: For educational purposes
- Work Visa: For work in Turkey
- Transit Visa: For transit layovers at Turkish airports
Step-by-Step Process to a Turkey Visa from Qatar
Decide Which Type of Visa You Need for Travel
- You might need the tourist, business, study or another type.
- Then you see if you meet the requirements for an e-Visa, which is only available to some nationalities.
E-Visa Eligibility:
You may qualify if you:
- Hold a passport from an eligible country (e.g., India, Philippines, Pakistan with a valid Schengen/UK/US/Ireland visa or residence permit.
- You are visiting for tourism or business only
Choose Your Visa Application Method (E-Visa or Sticker Visa)
Depending on your nationality and travel purpose, you’ll either apply online for an e-Visa or go through the traditional process for a sticker visa at the embassy or Visa Application Centre (VAC).
A woman giving her passport and documents for a visa
| Criteria | E-Visa (Online) | Sticker Visa (Embassy/VAC) |
| Who Can Apply | Citizens of select countries with a valid UK/US/Schengen/Ireland visa or residence permit | Most other nationalities are not eligible for the e-Visa |
| Purpose | Tourism or business | Tourism, business, study, work or other purposes |
| Where to Apply | Official Turkish e-Visa website | Turkish Embassy in Doha or the Gateway Management Visa Centre |
| Required Documents | Passport, valid visa/residency (for eligibility), basic info | Passport, Qatar ID, photos, bank statement, insurance and NOC. |
| Processing Time | Instant to a few hours | 5 to 10 business days |
| Visa Delivery | Download immediately | Visa stamped on passport |
| Important Note | Print a copy of the e-Visa for travel | Carry all originals to the appointment |
Book an Appointment
Go to the official VAC website to schedule your visa appointment:
- Choose the service and preferred date
- Receive confirmation email/SMS
Gather Required Documents
You’ll need the following documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Qatar ID Card copy
- Two recent passport-size photos
- 3-month bank statement
- Hotel booking
- Return flight ticket
- Travel insurance
- NOC from sponsor/employer (for some applicants)
Attend the Appointment
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early
- Submit your documents
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints)
- Pay the visa fee (cash or card)
Wait for Processing
The processing time for a sticker visa typically takes 5 to 10 business days. During this period, you can track the status of your visa application online through the VAC portal or receive updates via SMS notifications, depending on the service you selected during your appointment.
Collect Your Passport
- You will be notified when your passport is ready. Pick it up from the VAC or opt for courier delivery (if available).
- Your visa will be stamped in your passport and you’re all set to fly!
Turkey Visa Fees from Qatar
The Turkey visa fee from Qatar depends on your nationality, visa type, and application method
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee (QAR) |
| Tourist E-Visa | 120 to 180 |
| Sticker Tourist Visa | 300–500 |
| Business Visa | 400–600 |
| Student/Work Visa | 500+ |
FAQs
How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for a Turkey e-Visa from Qatar?
Eligibility for the e-Visa depends on your nationality and whether you hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen or Ireland. You can check eligibility on the official Turkish e-Visa website
Can I Track the Status of My Turkey Visa Application?
Yes! If applying through the VAC, you can track your application status online via their portal or opt for SMS updates during your appointment.
Where Is the Turkish VAC Located in Qatar?
The Gateway Management Visa Application Centre is located at Al Jazeera Tower, Doha. It handles Turkey visa applications and appointments.
Qatari passport holders can enter Turkey visa-free if their passport is valid for at least 150 days. Expatriates living in Qatar need a visa, either an e-Visa (if eligible) or a sticker visa through the Turkish Embassy or Gateway VAC.
Besides that, you can also explore the guide to UAE visa for Qatar residents on the Property Finder Blog.
