Qatar offers a convenient visa-on-arrival system for travellers from many countries. It welcomes travellers from many countries with a visa on arrival, making it easier for tourists and business visitors.
In this article, you will find clear information on requirements, fees, duration of stay and key rules. From eligibility to application, we cover all the essential details to help you enter the country smoothly.
You will also find information on the validity of an arrival visa in Qatar, age limits and how to extend your stay if needed. Whether you’re visiting for tourism or transit, this guide will help you understand the complete visa-on-arrival Qatar clearly.
- Overview
- Requirements and Eligibility
- Validity and Cost
- How to Apply
- Eligible Countires
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Visa on Arrival Qatar – Overview
Qatar offers a visa-free entry to citizens of over 90 countries, allowing eligible travellers to enter without applying in advance. However, citizens of four countries can obtain a visa on arrival in Qatar, which includes India, Pakistan, Thailand and Iran.
The visa is typically valid for 30 days and may be extended once, depending on nationality. Requirements generally include a valid passport, a confirmed return ticket and proof of accommodation.
Some nationalities, such as those from India and Pakistan, are required to book hotels through the Discover Qatar platform and meet additional conditions, including providing financial proof.
The visa on arrival is issued at Hamad International Airport or other designated entry points, typically at no charge or for a small fee. This option is ideal for short visits related to tourism or business, but it does not permit employment or long-term stay in Qatar.
Visa on Arrival Qatar – Requirements and Eligibility
Qatar offers a visa on arrival to citizens of over 90 countries. To be eligible:
- Travellers must hold a valid passport for at least six months, have a confirmed return or onward ticket and provide proof of accommodation (such as a hotel booking or a host’s address).
- The standard visa on arrival allows a stay of 30 days, with the option to extend it once for another 30 days through Qatar’s Ministry of Interior.
For some nationalities, including those from India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and Ukraine, additional conditions apply. These include:
- Booking accommodation through the Discover Qatar website requires providing proof of funds (typically a valid credit or debit card and recent bank statements).
- Holding valid travel insurance.
- Pakistani travellers also need a polio vaccination certificate.
Visa Duration and Cost of Qatar Visa on Arrival
The Qatar visa on arrival is typically issued for 30 days, with the option to extend it online once for an additional 30 days. This extension can be obtained through the Ministry of Interior website, allowing a total stay of up to 60 days for most eligible nationalities.
Some countries, including Schengen states and the UK, may be granted a 90-day visa valid for up to 180 days, although this type is usually not extendable.
In most cases, the Qatar on-arrival visa fee is free of charge, especially for nationals from approved countries. However, if an extension is required, a fee of QAR 100 (around USD 27) is typically applied.
How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival for Qatar
Here is a step‑by‑step guide on the procedure for an on-arrival visa in Qatar:
1. Check Eligibility
- Most eligible countries allow entry with a 30-day visa, which can be issued at the airport for a fee of QAR 100.
- You must have a valid passport, a return/onward ticket and a hotel booking for your stay.
2. Book Accommodation (if required)
Some nationalities (e.g., India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand) are required to book through Discover Qatar before travelling. If needed, you must reserve a hotel through Discover Qatar. Immigration at Hamad Airport checks for this before issuing the visa stamp.
3. At the Airport – Visa on Arrival
On arrival at Hamad International Airport (or land entry):
- Go to the Visa on Arrival / Immigration counter.
- Please present your passport, return ticket and proof of accommodation.
- Pay the visa fee (QAR 100) via card or cash.
- Receive your visa stamp instantly if all documents are in order.
4. Via Hayya App / Portal
Rather than waiting for arrival, eligible visitors may apply for an entry permit (visa) on the Hayya Portal or the Hayya to Qatar App (A1, A3, or A2 categories, depending on nationality/status).
Hayya Application Process:
- Visit www.hayya.qa or download the Hayya to Qatar app.
- Sign up and verify your account.
- Click Start Your Hayya Journey, choose your travel method, nationality and select the correct visa type (e.g., Tourist Visa A1).
- Enter your visit purpose (e.g., leisure, business), upload your passport scan and personal photo as specified.
- Provide contact and residency information, such as host or hotel details. If you are staying via Discover Qatar, you can skip the manual upload of your booking.
- Once approved, you’ll be prompted to pay QAR 100. After payment, you receive the entry permit by email or through the app.
- Show the printed permit upon arrival instead of waiting in the VOA queue.
Countries Eligible for a Visa on Arrival in Qatar
The following are the eligible Qatar visa on arrival countries:
| Stay Duration | Eligible Countries |
| 90 days (within 180 days, no extension) | Antigua & 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 |
| 30 days (extendable once) | Andorra, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Georgia, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Macau, Macedonia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, UK, US, Uruguay, Vatican City, Venezuela |
| GCC nationals (no visa needed) | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates |
Key Takeaways
- Qatar offers a visa on arrival to citizens of over 90 countries, typically for a period of 30 or 90 days, depending on the nationality.
- The basic requirements include a valid passport, a confirmed return ticket and proof of accommodation.
- Some nationalities, such as those from India and Pakistan, are required to book hotels through Discover Qatar and provide proof of sufficient funds.
- The visa can be extended once for 30 days online for most eligible travellers, usually for a fee of QAR 100.
- Visitors can also apply in advance using the Hayya app or portal to avoid airport queues and delays.
FAQs
1. How to Renew Qatar On-Arrival Visa?
The Qatar visa on arrival can be renewed once for an additional 30 days (only for eligible nationalities). You must apply for the extension online through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) e-services portal. A valid passport and visa number are required.
2. How to Extend An On-Arrival Visa in Qatar?
To extend your visa on arrival, visit the MOI website or use the Metrash2 app. Log in, choose “Visa Services” > “Extend Visa”, enter your visa number or passport details and pay the QAR 100 fee. Extension is only available once and for select countries.
3. How Much Is Qatar Visa On Arrival?
For most eligible nationalities, the visa on arrival is free of charge. However, if an extension is needed, a QAR 100 fee applies. Some nationalities (such as those from Pakistan or India) may be required to meet specific booking or documentation conditions, but there is no visa fee at the initial entry.
4. How Can I Get a Visa On Arrival in Qatar?
To get a visa on arrival in Qatar, you must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country
- Have a passport valid for at least 6 months
- Carry a return or onward ticket
- Show proof of accommodation (some nationalities must book via Discover Qatar)
- Present health insurance if staying over 30 days
- You’ll receive the visa stamp at Hamad International Airport or another official entry point upon arrival.
5. How to Apply for An On-Arrival Visa for Qatar?
You do not need to apply in advance if you’re eligible. Just arrived in Qatar with all required documents. Alternatively, some travellers prefer to apply online through the Hayya portal or app for pre-approval and ease of entry.
6. Can I Get a Qatar Transit Visa On Arrival?
No, Qatar’s transit visa must be applied for in advance. It is not available on arrival. You can apply online through Qatar Airways’ website if your layover is between 5 and 96 hours and you meet the airline’s terms.
7. How to Extend An On-Arrival Visa in Qatar for Indian Citizens?
Indian passport holders eligible for the 30-day visa on arrival may extend their visa once for another 30 days via the MOI portal. They must have booked their hotel through Discover Qatar and provide proof of funds (an international debit/credit card with a minimum balance of QAR 5,000).
8. How to Extend An On-Arrival Visa in Qatar for Pakistani Citizens?
Pakistani citizens must also book hotels through Discover Qatar and may extend their visa for an additional 30 days online, provided all conditions are met. A valid polio vaccination certificate is also required. The extension is completed via the MOI website and costs QAR 100.
Qatar’s visa-on-arrival system makes it easier for travellers from many countries to enter without prior paperwork. By understanding the eligibility, requirements and extension process, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.
Always check the latest rules before travelling, especially if you are from a country with specific travel conditions. With proper preparation, visiting Qatar becomes a straightforward and welcoming experience.
