Qatar Visa on Arrival 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Qatar, ranked the safest country in the world by the Numbeo Safety Index 2023, is renowned for its stunning skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture. Are you planning a trip to Qatar? If so, you may be eligible for Qatar’s Visa on Arrival (VoA), available to travelers from over 102 nationalities.
Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or a stopover, Qatar ensures a smooth experience for visitors with its world-class airports and streamlined immigration procedures. If you’re planning to visit your loved ones in Qatar, navigate the Family Visit Visa Qatar, allowing family members to stay for an extended period.
With minimal paperwork, no pre-approval, and instant processing, the Qatar Visa on Arrival is a hassle-free way to enter the country. But what are the requirements, duration, and conditions? This guide covers everything you need to know!
What is a Qatar Visa On Arrival?
Since 2017, Qatar has been recognized as one of the most accessible destinations in the Middle East, welcoming people from more than 95 countries without a prior visa. Thinking about how to do so? A Qatar Visa on Arrival is a visa-free entry permit granted to eligible travelers from over 102 countries upon arriving at Hamad International Airport or other entry points in Qatar.
Unlike traditional visas, which require prior approval from Qatari authorities, a VoA is granted instantly at the immigration counter, provided the traveler meets the necessary requirements. It is a single-entry or multiple-entry visa depending on the traveler’s nationality and the duration of stay permitted.
During COVID-19, Qatar’s VoA service was temporarily suspended but reinstated in 2025 with updated requirements and advanced procedures. Before traveling Qatar for a family meetup, it’s essential to check the latest Qatar Family Visa Requirements 2025 to ensure a smooth entry process.
Key Benefits of Qatar Visa on Arrival:
- No Pre-Approval Required: Eligible travelers do not need to apply in advance; they can obtain the visa upon arrival.
- Fast and Convenient: Issued instantly at the immigration counter, saving time and effort.
- No Visa Fees for Many Countries: Nationals of certain countries receive a free visa on arrival, while others may need to pay a nominal fee.
- Multiple Entries for Some Countries: Depending on the traveler’s nationality, they may be eligible for multiple-entry visas, allowing them to leave and re-enter Qatar within the validity period.
- Easy Extension: Some visa-on-arrival holders can extend their stay online or through the Qatar Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal.
To verify your visa status, you can use the MOI Qatar Visa Check service, which provides real-time visa updates.
Eligibility Criteria For Qatar Visa on Arrival
The Qatar government has categorized visa-on-arrival eligibility criteria into two major groups:
- 90-Days Visa on Arrival (Multiple Entry)
Citizens of these countries can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This stay can either be a single visit or split into multiple visits within that period.
| Continents | States Allowed for Qatar’s VoA |
|---|---|
| Europe | Schengen countries, UK, Switzerland, Turkey |
| America | Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile |
| Asia-Pacific | Australia, New Zealand, South Korea |
| Others | Ukraine, Seychelles |
The validity of this VoA visa is 180 days (stay up to 90 days) and you cannot extend it further. For visitors who need a printed visa copy, the MOI Qatar Visa Inquiry and Printing service allows easy online access.
2. 30-Day Visa on Arrival (Extendable for Another 30 Days)
Citizens from these countries get a 30-day visa, extendable for another 30 days:
- GCC Countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE
- Asia: India, Pakistan, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia
- Africa: South Africa
- America: Mexico
- Others: Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan
| Continents | States Allowed for Qatar’s VoA |
|---|---|
| GCC Countries | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE |
| Asia | India, Pakistan, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia |
| Africa | South Africa |
| America | Mexico |
| Others | Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan |
This visa is valid for 30 days which is extendable to 60 days. There is no extension fee applied; it can be done online via MOI Qatar for free of cost. Looking for a unique natural getaway? Delve into the hidden beauty of Purple Island Qatar, a serene retreat near Al Khor.
Qatar Visa On Arrival Eligible Countries
Here’s the detailed list of eligible countries for Qatar’s VoA service. Have a look!
- Visa Permit Exemption (For 90-days)
Travelers from the enlisted countries can stay in Qatar for 90 days within the duration of 180 days through Qatar’s VoA.
| Antigua | 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 |
- Visa-Free Entry (For 30 days)
Here’s the breakdown of the eligible countries for a 30-days Qatari VoA which can be extended for further 30 days.
| Andorra | Australia | Azerbaijan |
| Belarus | Bolivia | Bosnia and 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 |
| Macao | Macedonia | Maldives |
| Mauritius | Mexico | Moldova |
| Monaco | Montenegro | New Zealand |
| Pakistan | Panama | Paraguay |
| Peru | Russia | Rwanda |
| San Marino | Singapore | South Africa |
| South Korea | Taiwan (China) | Thailand |
| United Kingdom | United States | Suriname |
| Uruguay | Uzbekistan | Vatican City |
| Venezuela |
Note: Expats moving to Qatar with children can explore some of the Leading British Schools in Qatar for quality education options.
Qatar Visa on Arrival Requirements
To be granted a Visa on Arrival, you must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship: Must be from an eligible country (complete list provided below).
- Passport Validity: Should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Return Ticket: Proof of a confirmed return ticket or onward journey ticket.
- Hotel Booking: For some nationalities, hotel reservation via Discover Qatar is mandatory. The chosen hotel must be booked for at least two nights and possible cancellation policies applied.
- Health Insurance: A valid health insurance policy (purchasable online at arrival). It is highly recommended for stays longer than 30 days. For shorter stays, it is not mandatory.
- QAR 50.00 (US$14 approximately) for stays over 30 days in Qatar.
- COVID-19 Restrictions: As of 2024, no mandatory testing is required.
- Sufficient Funds: Since March 2022, travelers from specific countries like India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran from India and Pakistan must show proof of financial funds upon arrival at Qatar airport.
- A valid debit card or credit card or cash in hand of QAR 5000 ($1,370 USD) bank balance.
- A three-months bank statement for debit card holders.
- For a single visit, the card must be named after the visitor. However, for a family visit, one card under the name of the family’s head is enough.
- Exceptionally, for Belarus nationals, a bank statement of US$ 1,000 is acceptable.
Suggestion: Experience Qatar’s vibrant culture by scouting about where to go and what to buy in Souq Waqif, a traditional market where you can shop for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Other Considerations While Applying For Qatar VoA
Given the global tourist landscape, it’s prudent to check some other considerations that you must keep in mind during your On-arrival Qatar Visa processing are:
Digitalize the VoA Application
You can now shift your VoA application to digital processing. How? Here’s the way to do so:
- Pre-fill your Visa application with complete and accurate information.
- Upload the required documents before your departure to Qatar.
In this way, you can save your time at the Immigration counters.
Traveling With Minors
In case of traveling with minors, you must be asked for some extra documents such as:
- Birth certificates
- Legal guardian documents
Make sure to have complete and authentic documents when you’re traveling with your children; specially as a single parent.
Multicultural Diversity and Ethical Compliance
Qatar respects its cultural roots and Islamic dignity. So, if you planning to visit Qatar, you must follow:
- Dress modestly
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Avoid alcohol consumption
Be aware of the local laws to make your tour a hassle-free journey for you. For beach lovers, Al Ghariya Beach offers a peaceful escape from the city with pristine waters and golden sands.
How to Apply for a Qatar Visa on Arrival? Step-by-Step Process
- Arrive in Qatar – Land at Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH). Continue as directed to the Immigration Desk, designated for VoA services.
- Show Documents – Mention your visa category as VoA and present your passport, return ticket, hotel booking and other credentials.
- Pay for Health Insurance – If required, buy it online before arrival.
- Get Your Visa – After reviewing your documents in detail, the immigration officer will stamp your Visa on Arrival in your passport for free. Say Hello to Doha – the gateway to Qatar.
Extending a Qatar Visa on Arrival
If your visa is extendable, follow these steps:
- Visit the MOI Qatar website: https://portal.moi.gov.qa
- Go to “Visa Services” and choose “Visit Visa Extension Service page”
- Enter your details including passport number and other personal information.
- Follow the instructions shown on screen to verify the input information.
- Click “Extend Visa” to fulfill the VoA extension request.
- After submission of application, you will receive a confirmation message of extension request.
Cost: Qatar VoA extension service is free of cost for those who qualify to it successfully.
Pro tip: Qatar’s cultural heritage is deeply tied to falconry. Learn about this ancient tradition at Falconry in Qatar
Consequences of Overstaying a Qatar Visa on Arrival
- QAR 200 (UD$55) per day of overstay.
- Payment must be made before leaving Qatar at the airport or online.
- Overstaying can affect future visa approvals.
Special Case-I: Indian and Pakistani Travelers
Travelers from India and Pakistan must meet extra conditions:
- Hotel booking through Discover Qatar
- QAR 5000 ($1,370 USD) minimum bank balance
- Valid debit/credit card in their name
Pakistan: visitors need a valid polio vaccination certificate.
Special Case-II: GCC Residents
Residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates do not need a visa to enter Qatar. What you actually need is:
- A valid passport
- A bank statement (proof of financial funds)
- A health insurance (covering your medical charges if required during your stay in Qatar)
- A round-trip ticket
- A profession enlisted among 206 approved categories only.
This shows the mutual relationship and understanding of movement in the Gulf.
Special Case-III: Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa
VoA Qatar-Oman Joint travel permit is applicable for 6 countries at the moment; valid for one month. It may extend up to 6 months depending on the conditions and visa requirements. However, the extension is not confirmed.
- Falkland Islands
- French Guiana
- Macau
- Mauritius
- Montenegro
- S. China (Taiwan)
For this visa, you must have a hotel reservation or an authentic address of a family member or a friend. Also, health insurance will be compulsory for this VoA service.
Special Case-IV: Iranian Tourist or Business Visa
For Iran, a 30-days Qatar VoA visa costs QAR 100.00 (approximately US$28). However, business visas are available to stay in Qatar for up to six months. For extended stay, you must pay an extension fee which is different from the VoA fee.
Special Case V: Ukrainian 90-Days Visa
For Ukrainian nationals, the VoA Qatar offers a free visitor visa for up to 90 days or the entirety of your stay. However, hotel booking must be done beforehand and a valid Ukrainian passport must be available to achieve this opportunity.
Special Case VI: VoA Service For Belarusian Nationals
Belarusian citizens can receive the tourist or business visa by paying the fee upon arrival at the Hamad International Airport. For this purpose, they must have:
- A valid Belarusian passport
- Bank statement of US$ 1,000 in a credit card/ debit card/ in cash.
- Accommodation booked through Discover Qatar.
Following the Ministerial Decision No. (19) of 2007, you can obtain Qatar VoA as a Belarusian:
- Tourist Visa for a duration of one month (paid) without any extension possible.
- Business Visa (ranging from one month to three months) which will be paid accordingly and an invitation letter from Qatari company is required for this visa service.
Recommendation: Food enthusiasts can explore the 10 Best Restaurants in Qatar to experience world-class dining options
Can You Perform Umrah with a Qatar Visa on Arrival?
No, you cannot use a Qatar Visa on Arrival to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia. However, you can transit through Qatar if you have a separate Saudi visa.
Best Time to Visit Qatar
- Best Season: November to April (pleasant weather)
- Avoid: June to August (hot and humid)
Alternative Entry Options for Non-Eligible Travelers
If your nationality is not eligible for a Visa on Arrival, you can apply for:
- Qatar eVisa – Apply via the Hayya platform.
- Transit Visa – Free for stopovers longer than 5 hours.
- Family or Business Visa – Requires sponsorship.
Qatar Immigration Contact Details
- Ministry of Interior (MOI) Qatar: https://portal.moi.gov.qa
- Hamad International Airport Helpdesk: +974 4010 6666
Beyond visa and entry requirements, Qatar is a land of endless experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, there are countless 17 incredible things to do in Qatar that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
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Final Thoughts on Qatar’s VoA
Qatar’s Visa on Arrival is a gateway to an unforgettable journey, offering seamless entry for travelers from around the world. With its hassle-free process, minimal requirements, and quick approvals, visiting this vibrant Gulf nation has never been easier.
Just make sure to check your eligibility, prepare the required documents, and you’ll be all set to experience Qatar’s blend of tradition and modernity. From the golden dunes of the desert to the lively souqs and futuristic skyline, Qatar welcomes you with open arms. Safe travels and enjoy every moment in this extraordinary destination.
| Does Qatar have online visa services? Yes, you can apply for a Qatar eVisa or extend a Visa on Arrival online via the MOI Qatar website. |
| Which is the top airline to fly to Qatar? Qatar Airways is the best airline for direct flights to Qatar. |
| How long does a Qatar Visa on Arrival processing take? Qatar’s VoA usually takes 10-15 minutes at the airport. |
