Overview
The Mustaqel Program, launched in February 2024 by Qatar Manpower Solutions Co. (Jusour), is a significant initiative in Qatar’s rapidly evolving economy. This 5-year residency visa is designed to revitalise Qatar’s labour market.
Additionally, it also attracts a diverse array of global entrepreneurs, talents and skilled professionals to the country. The Mustaqel visa offers individuals the opportunity to establish a life and career in Qatar, thereby contributing to the country’s development and economic growth.
Categories of Mustaqel Visa
The Mustaqel programme is categorised into two classes: the Entrepreneur Visa and the Talent Visa. Let’s discuss them in detail below:
1. Entrepreneur Mustaqel Visa
The entrepreneur visa is designed for small to medium-sized business owners in Qatar. The owners must have their business models approved by a Qatar-based business incubator before applying for the process.
2. Talent Mustaqel Visa
Whereas, the talented visa targets skilled individuals in the arts, entertainment, sports and technology sectors. Similar to an entrepreneur visa, the applicants for talented visas also require an endorsement code from the relevant authorities to start the process.
These entities include:
- Recognised Qatari Authorities
- Qatari universities, such as Qatar University, or Research Institutions (for academics and researchers)
- Relevant industry bodies or organisations (according to your professional field)
Eligibility Criteria
As the Mustaqel visa is designed for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, Jusour has outlined the eligibility criteria for each category of applicants. So, let’s discuss them below:
1. For Entrepreneurs
Those starting a business in Qatar can apply for an entrepreneur’s visa after meeting the following eligibility criteria:
- Firstly, a Qatar-based incubator must approve the business plan. You can get approvals from the following entities:
- Qatar Science and Technology Park
- Qatar Fintech Hub
- Secondly, you must have a minimum investment of QAR 250,000 to establish or expand a business in Qatar.
2. For Talented Professionals
Trained professionals need a job offer in Qatar or sufficient funds to support themselves before applying for the Mustaqel visa. Also, they must be eligible as per the following criteria:
- The talented professionals must have approval from the relevant government authority to confirm their expertise in 13 designated fields, including:
- Sports
- Arts
- Education
- Scientific Research
- Innovation
- The applicant must provide evidence of financial self-sufficiency, with a minimum of QAR 36,500. This is to cover the costs associated with the immigration process or secure a job offer in Qatar.
Required Documents
The requirements for obtaining a Mustaqel visa are clearly defined. Here are all the necessary documents you have to submit to Jusour’s:
- Valid Passport
- Digital Photo
- Degree Certificate
- Police Clearance Certificate (Must be issued in the last three months, not more than that)
- No-objection Certificate from their current Qatari employer (if applicable)
- Previous employer’s employment contract or letter of experience
- New employer’s employment contract or job offer
- Current sponsor’s Qatar Identity Card or company establishment card
Note: Specific requirements can vary based on the applicant’s category and location.
Required Fees
The application process incurs an administrative fee, depending on the visa category. Here’s the fee breakdown for Jusour’s Mustaqel Visa application:
- Talent Visa Fee: QAR 4,000
- Entrepreneur Fee: QAR 5,000
Note: If your application is rejected, you will receive a refund of the administrative fee.
Application Process
Jusour offers online application procedures for both entrepreneurs’ and talented professionals’ visas, providing maximum convenience to its applicants. Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Get Endorsement
Obtain approval from a recognised Qatari authority or business incubator, depending on your category.
2. Fill Out the Online Application
After receiving the endorsement, you can submit your application via the Jusour website, attaching the required documents.
3. Pay the Administrative Fee
You will then get an online fee voucher for the administrative fee payment. The fee for talent visas is QAR 4,000, while the cost for entrepreneur visas is QAR 5,000.
4. Receive Preapproval
After reviewing your application and documents, you will receive an electronic preapproval, which will permit you to complete the process. The procedure further includes a medical test and getting a Qatar ID card.
Benefits
By applying for a Mustaqel visa in Qatar, you will get several benefits, including:
1. Residency Permit
You can renew your 5-year residency permit, which will enable you to maintain a stable and long-term presence in Qatar.
2. Self-Sponsorship
This visa will enable you to sponsor yourself, providing greater flexibility and independence.
3. Family Sponsorship
By obtaining a Mustaqil visa, you will have the opportunity to sponsor your family members, allowing them to live with you in Qatar.
4. Property Ownership
Another significant benefit of holding a Mustaqel visa is the right to own property in Qatar. This will offer a sense of permanence and provide investment security.
5. Business Growth
This visa opens doors to opportunities for business growth and innovation, especially for entrepreneurs with approved business plans.
6. Career Prospects
It also enhances career prospects in a thriving economy, particularly for skilled professionals in fields such as the arts, entertainment, sports and technology.
7. High Quality of Life
This visa provides access to a high quality of life, contemporary infrastructure and first-class amenities in a safe and secure environment.
8. Educational Opportunities
By receiving the Mustaqel visa, you can access various excellent educational opportunities for yourself and your family.
FAQs
1. How Many Types of Visas Are Available in Qatar?
Qatar offers an array of visas for both temporary and permanent residency, broadly categorised as:
- Tourist Visas
- Business Visas
- Gulf Cooperation Council Resident Visit Visas
- Family Visa
- Transit Visa
- Education Visa
- Mustaqel Visa
2. What is the Mustaqel visa in Qatar?
The Mustaqel visa is open to a diverse range of individuals, including entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and those with exceptional talent. With expertise in priority sectors such as healthcare, technology, engineering and others, they contribute to Qatar’s economy and society.
3. Can I Renew My Mustaqel Visa in Qatar?
Yes, you can renew your Mustaqel Visa in Qatar after every 5 years. However, the requirements and process for renewing the visa are the same.
With all the steps, requirements and essential details, you can now apply for your Mustaqel Visal in Qatar easily. Whether you are registering as an entrepreneur or a talented professional, the straightforward procedure helps you get your visa swiftly.
For more guides on visas, check out the Property Finder Qatar Blog!
