Here’s a simple guide to how the process works.

What Is a Family Visit Visa?

A Family Visit Visa allows close family members of a Qatar resident to visit the country for a short stay. It is generally issued for 30 days initially.

If more time is needed, eligible visitors can apply to extend their stay, subject to approval by the Ministry of Interior.

Can the Visa Be Extended?

Yes. Immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents may be eligible for extensions for a total stay of up to 180 days (six months), subject to MOI approval.

Other relatives, such as siblings or extended family members, may have shorter maximum stay periods, often up to 90 days, depending on the visitor’s relationship with the sponsor and the applicable regulations.

Approval depends on several factors, including:

• The sponsor continuing to meet MOI eligibility requirements, including profession and minimum salary where applicable.
• The visitor’s relationship to the sponsor.
• Submission of all required documents.
• Compliance with any medical and insurance requirements.

When Should You Apply?

Apply for the extension before the current visa expires. Submitting the application several days in advance is recommended to allow enough time for processing.

Overstaying a visit visa may result in a fine of QR 200 per day and could affect future visa applications.

Documents Commonly Required

Requirements may vary depending on the application, but you will generally need:

• Visitor’s passport copy (valid for at least six months)
• Copy of the current visit visa
• Sponsor’s valid Qatar ID
• Proof of relationship (such as a marriage or birth certificate, where applicable)
• Valid health insurance covering the extension period
• Medical examination certificate, if required for the extension
• Proof of accommodation, if requested
• Any additional supporting documents requested by the Ministry of Interior

Always check the latest requirements before applying, as documents may vary depending on the visitor’s circumstances.

Medical Examination

Visitors staying beyond the initial one-month period are generally required to complete the required medical examination before the extension can be approved.

The medical check should be completed before submitting the extension request if applicable.

How to Apply Online

You can apply through the Ministry of Interior’s online services or the Metrash app.

The general process is:

1. Open the MOI portal or the Metrash app.
2. Select Visa Services and choose Visit Visa Extension.
3. Enter the required visitor details.
4. Upload the requested documents.
5. Pay the applicable fee online.
6. Once approved, download or print the updated visa. You may also receive an SMS notification.

Applying at an MOI Service Center

If online services are unavailable or additional verification is required, sponsors may visit an MOI Service Center.

Bring all required original documents for verification, submit the application, and pay the applicable fee.

Processing times vary depending on the application and whether any additional checks are required.

Extension Fee

The visa extension fee is QR 200 per month of extension.

Fees are subject to change, so confirm the latest amount through the official Ministry of Interior before applying.

If the Extension Is Not Approved

If the extension request is refused, the visitor must leave Qatar before the current visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.

If eligible, the sponsor may apply for a new Family Visit Visa in the future, subject to the Ministry of Interior’s requirements.

If needed, the sponsor may also contact the Ministry of Interior to understand the reason for the decision.

Helpful Tips

• Apply before the visa expires.
• Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and complete.
• Keep the sponsor’s Qatar ID valid.
• Complete any required medical examination before applying.
• Maintain valid health insurance throughout the visitor’s stay.
• Track your application through the MOI portal or the Metrash app.
• Always check the latest rules and fees before submitting your application.

This article is intended for general information only. Visa rules, eligibility requirements, fees, and procedures may change. Always refer to the official Qatar Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or visit an MOI Service Center for the latest and most accurate information before applying.

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