Travelling to Qatar? Your entry requirements depend on your nationality and, sometimes, whether you hold residency or a visa from another country. Some visitors qualify for visa-free entry, others may be eligible for a visa on arrival, and others need a Hayya electronic visa before travel.
Qatar’s tourism authority increasingly uses the term visa-free entry for arrangements once commonly called visa on arrival. These categories should not be confused with one another.
Who qualifies for visa-free entry?
Many nationalities can visit Qatar without applying for a visa in advance, but permitted stay lengths and conditions vary. Rather than relying on an older fixed list of countries, check the official Visit Qatar visa checker for your passport nationality and circumstances.
Do GCC nationals need a visa?
Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates generally do not need a visa to enter Qatar. GCC citizens and foreign nationals residing in GCC countries are different categories. Expatriate GCC residents should check their own entry eligibility and any relevant Hayya option.
What is the Hayya visa?
Qatar’s Hayya portal facilitates visitor applications, including categories such as A1 tourist visas and qualifying entry options for GCC residents or certain holders of other visas and residency permits. The applicable category and documents depend on the applicant.
Does Qatar charge a visa-on-arrival fee?
Some visitors are admitted free, while certain paid entry categories may involve a fee, including QAR 100 for some categories. Check the amount shown for your own eligibility rather than assuming the same fee applies to everyone.
Passport, ticket and accommodation rules
Passport validity, return or onward travel, and accommodation requirements depend on the entry category. Some categories list a minimum of three months of passport validity, while others may have different conditions. Certain visitors may need a booking made through Discover Qatar; other visitors may qualify under different accommodation rules. Always verify the details before buying tickets.
Is visitor health insurance required?
Qatar has health insurance requirements affecting certain visitors. The applicable conditions depend on your entry circumstances and length of stay. Check the relevant official guidance and ensure your coverage meets the requirements.
How to check before departure
- Open the official Visit Qatar visa checker.
- Select your nationality and answer any additional questions.
- Check your applicable entry type and stay duration.
- Review passport, accommodation, insurance and return-ticket requirements.
- Apply through Hayya before travelling if required.
For additional travel planning, see our Qatar visitor guide and guide to getting a SIM card at Doha Airport.
Official sources
Always check the latest requirements through Visit Qatar, Hayya and the Ministry of Interior before travel.