Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) is the official entry permit for people visiting Qatar for tourism, events, or short business trips. It’s easy to apply online through the Hayya Portal and you don’t need to visit an embassy. With quick steps and a user-friendly system. Getting your visa has never been easier.
The Qatar Tourist Visa allows you to stay for 30 days and you can extend it once for another 30 days if needed. Whether you’re coming to explore the city, visit loved ones, or attend an event, this visa gives you flexible access. In the next sections, you’ll learn how to apply, what documents you need, and more.
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What is a Hayya Visa?
The Hayya Visa is Qatar official e-visa system designed to welcome international travelers with ease. Managed through the Hayya website and mobile app, this digital platform allows users to apply, track, and receive their visas online. It supports several visa types, each tailored for different travel needs, from tourism to family visits.
Types of Hayya Visas
Qatar offers multiple Haya Visa categories:
- Tourist Visa (A1): Ideal for tourists and short-term visitors
- GCC Resident Visa (A2): For residents of Gulf nations like UAE and Saudi Arabia
- Visa with ETA (A3): For travelers who need pre-travel electronic authorization
- GCC Companion Visa (A4) : For those accompanying GCC nationals
- Hayya With Me Visa (C): Previously for invited guests, though now paused for some nationalities
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Recent Updates to Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1 Visa)
The Qatar Tourist Visa, also called the Hayya A1 Visa or Tourist Entry Visa, has been upgraded in 2025 to offer a faster and smoother experience for travelers. The Hayya platform now serves as the main portal for all visitor visa applications, including the A1 category. With the improved Hayya app, digital entry cards are easier to access, and visa processing has become more efficient than ever.
- Visa approvals now take 2–3 weeks, so it’s important to apply early and plan your trip in advance.
- The Hayya platform has added three new e-visa types, making the system more flexible for different travel purposes.
- Entry permits are now valid for 90 days from the date they’re issued, giving you extra time to finalize your travel plans.
- Since June 2024, visitors from countries like India and Pakistan are no longer able to extend their Hayya Tourist Visa.
- It’s highly recommended not to book your flight until you receive official visa approval to avoid travel issues.
Who Can Apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa?
Citizens from most countries across the globe are eligible to apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa, except for nationals of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, who don’t need a visa to enter.
Travelers from more than 102 countries can even enjoy visa-free entry on arrival, thanks to Qatar’s agreements.
To qualify, applicants must be genuine visitors with plans to return home, show proof of enough funds for their trip, and meet health and security requirements, including having a clean criminal record.
Qatar Tourist Visa Requirements
To get a Qatar A1 Visa, you’ll need to prepare a few key documents. Start with a valid passport that’s good for at least six more months. You must also fill out the visa application form, attach a recent passport-size photo, and provide proof of a return flight.
Accommodation details are required too, this could be a hotel booking or a letter of invitation if you’re staying with family or friends. For some, travel insurance and proof of funds might also be requested.
General Requirements
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Application Form: Fully filled out and accurate.
- Passport Photo: Recent and meets size guidelines.
- Return Ticket: Confirmed flight out of Qatar.
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking or host invitation with documents.
- Financial Proof: Evidence you can afford your stay.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended, sometimes required.
- GCC Residents: May need to show a valid GCC residence visa and ID.
- Visa Method: Some can apply online, others receive visa on arrival.
How to Apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa Online?
Applying for a Hayya A1 Visa online is simple and stress-free. Just head over to the Hayya Portal website or use the Hayya app, create your account, and follow a few easy steps.
This is the official system Qatar uses for all tourist visa applications. You’ll fill out the form, upload your documents, and pay the fee, all in one place.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Hayya Portal:
Go to www.hayya.qa or download the Hayya app.
If you are new, sign up and create an account.
- Fill Out the Application
After logging in, choose the “Tourist Visa (A1)” option from the list of visa types. Enter your travel details, like your expected arrival date and how long you plan to stay. Then, provide your personal information and passport details. You’ll also need to mention where you’ll be staying in Qatar and include an emergency contact.
- Upload Your Documents
Next, you’ll need to upload a scanned copy of your passport’s first page and a clear, recent passport-sized photo. You also have to upload proof of your accommodation. This could be a hotel booking confirmation or the name and address of a friend or family member you’ll stay with.
- Pay the Visa Fee
Once your application is complete, the system will ask you to pay the visa fee. The standard fee for a Qatar Tourist Visa is QAR 100, which is around $27 USD. You can pay it easily using a debit or credit card, Visa and Mastercard are both accepted.
- Submit and Wait for Approval
Before clicking submit, take a few moments to double-check all your details and documents. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, and you’ll receive email updates about its status. After approval, your Hayya Entry Permit will be sent directly to your registered email. You can also access it anytime from the Hayya app.
Things to Remember
Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months from the date you plan to enter Qatar. When you arrive in the country, immigration officials may ask to see your Hayya Entry.
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How to Extend Hayya A1 Tourist Visa (Process)?
To avoid late fees, make sure you apply for the extension before your visa expires. You can extend your visa either online or by visiting a Visa Extension Center that means to Hayya Visa Extension.
Steps to Extend Your Hayya A1 Tourist Visa:
- Go to the Qatar Ministry of Interior website or visit a local Visa Extension Center
- Fill out the extension application form
- Upload the needed documents, including:
- A copy of your passport
- Accommodation confirmation
- Health insurance, if required
- A copy of your passport
- Pay the extension fee (usually QAR 200 for an extra 30 days)
- Submit everything for review
- Once approved, you’ll get a confirmation through the portal or at the center
- Always apply on time to avoid extra charges or rejection.
Qatar Tourist Visa Cost and Validity
The Hayya tourist visa (A1) for Qatar is typically valid for 30 days from the date of entry into Qatar. It is a single-entry visa and can be extended for an additional 30 days, allowing for a maximum stay of 60 days.
A Qatar tourist visa usually costs around QAR 100 for a single entry, which lets you stay in the country for up to 30 days. If you’re looking for a multiple-entry visa, the cost goes up, around QAR 200 or more, and it stays valid for 6 months.
Good news for Pakistani passport holders, you can enter Qatar without a visa for tourism and stay up to 30 days. Just remember, once your visa is issued, the countdown starts. You’ll need to travel before it expires or it won’t be valid anymore.
Documents Needed for Travel
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 more months from your travel date.
- Hayya Entry Permit: This is your visa, which you’ll get by email after approval.
- Return Flight Ticket: You need to show proof that you’ll leave within 30 days.
- Accommodation Details: Have your hotel booking or your host’s address ready.
- Health Insurance: Not always required, but highly recommended. It’s mandatory if you’re staying more than 30 days.
How to Extend Your Qatar Tourist Visa?
If you want to extend your Qatar tourist visa, you have got two main ways to do it, either online through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal or by visiting the General Directorate of Passports in person. You’ll need to provide your visa and passport details, fill out the extension form, and pay the fee.
Online Visa Extension
You can use the MOI website, Metrash2, or Haya e-visa app to start. Once there, go to the visit visa extension section and enter your passport number, visa number, and nationality.
Follow the instructions carefully. If the system asks for health insurance data, make sure to renew or extend your health insurance before continuing. The fee for the extension is usually around QAR 500.
Visit the Passport Office
If you had rather do it face-to-face, go to the General Directorate of Passports. Ask for the extension application form, fill it out, and attach any required documents like your passport copy and Hayya Entry Permit.
Then, hand everything over to the officer in charge and pay the visa extension fee there.
Qatar Visa Processing Time
Qatar visa processing time depends on the type of visa you’re applying for. Some visas get approved quickly, while others may take a bit longer.
Tourist Visas
If you are applying for a tourist visa, the wait time is usually short. In many cases, single-entry visas or visas for GCC residents can be processed in just 2 to 3 days. For standard online tourist visas, it typically takes around 3 to 5 working days to get approval.
Important Rules for Visitors
- No job hunting: You can’t work in Qatar while on a tourist visa.
- Overstay fines: If you stay longer than your visa allows, you’ll be fined QAR 200 (around $55) per day.
- Respect local culture: Qatar follows Islamic traditions, so dress modestly and act respectfully.
- Avoid banned items: Don’t carry alcohol, pork, weapons, drugs, or anything that might offend religious values.
- Cash limit: You can bring up to QAR 5,000 in cash without needing to declare it.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Apply early: Begin your visa application 3 to 4 weeks before your trip to avoid last-minute stress.
- Check your details: Always double-check your information. Even small mistakes can delay or reject your visa.
- Use clear documents: Make sure your passport scan and photo are sharp and easy to read.
- Wait before booking: Hold off on booking non-refundable flights until your visa is officially approved.
- Download the Hayya app: It’s handy to keep your Entry Permit on your phone while you travel.
Difference Between Hayya A1 Visa and Visa on Arrival
The Hayya A1 visa and Visa on Arrival are both used for visiting Qatar as a tourist. However, the Hayya A1 visa is applied for online through the Hayya platform, making the process easier, especially if you’re visiting for events or planned stays.
On the other hand, the Visa on Arrival is the regular tourist visa that travelers from eligible countries get when they land in Qatar. In short, the Hayya A1 visa is a more modern, digital option that simplifies things and may come with extra perks for attending events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa at the airport?
Yes, travelers from certain countries, like Pakistan, can get a Qatar tourist visa directly at the airport when they arrive.
Q: Do children need a Qatar Tourist Visa?
Yes, everyone visiting Qatar, even infants and children must have a valid visa. There are no age-based exceptions, as confirmed by official visa guidelines.
Q: What if I change my passport after receiving my visa?
You’ll need to update your Hayya application with the details from your new passport. Once that’s done, you’ll get a new entry visa within 48 hours.
Q: Can I start a new application if mine is taking too long?
No, you can’t submit a new application if your current one is still marked as “Pending.” You’ll need to wait for it to be approved or rejected first.
Q: Is health insurance mandatory?
If you’re staying in Qatar for more than 30 days, health insurance is a must, as required by the Ministry of Public Health.
Q: Can I work with a Qatar Tourist Visa?
No, a Qatar tourist visa does not permit you to work. It is specifically for tourism purposes, according to a Qatar Tourist Visa Guide. To work in Qatar, you need to obtain a work visa sponsored by an employer.
Q: How much cash can I bring to Qatar?
When bringing local currency (Qatar Riyal-QAR) and all other foreign currencies amounts equal to or higher than QAR 5,000 must be declared on arrival.
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