Qatar currently doesn't offer a visa-on-arrival program in the traditional sense. In the past, travelers from many countries would get a visa upon reaching immigration. However, Qatar has transitioned to a more streamlined visa-free entry system for over 102 nationalities. 

Visa-free entry is essentially the new term for what was previously known as "visa on arrival." Think of it as the same concept with a new name! This simplifies the process, although there might be requirements like pre-booked accommodation. If you need clarification on eligibility, checking the Qatar VisaPolicy page is an excellent first step.

There is no denying that Qatar's Visa-free entry streamlines airport entry for eligible travelers. While convenient, consider applying for an e-Visa beforehand to ensure a smoother arrival process and avoid potential wait times.

Qatar Visa-Free Entry: Explore Qatar Free on Arrival Visa

Qatar offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 102 countries, making it a welcoming destination for travelers. Here's a breakdown of this program:

What it is: The visa-free entry program allows eligible nationalities to enter Qatar and stay for a specific duration without obtaining a visa beforehand. 

Technicalities:

• Eligibility: Check the Qatar Visa Policy page for the latest list of visa-free countries.

• Duration: The visa-free stay period varies depending on your nationality. It can be either 30 days or 90 days.

• Requirements: Prepare to show a valid passport with at least three months remaining validity, a confirmed departure or return ticket, and any additional documents required for your nationality upon arrival. (check Qatar Visa Requirements for details).

• Validity: The visa waiver is issued upon arrival and is valid for a single entry.

Important Notes:

• Always confirm your eligibility and any additional requirements before your trip.

• Ensure your passport has sufficient validity (usually 3-6 months).

• Possess a confirmed onward or return ticket.

Requirements for Qatar Visa-free Entry

To be eligible, travelers must meet specific requirements, including:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months from arrival.
• Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a return or onward journey is required.
• Sufficient Funds Evidence: Provide bank or credit card statements showing enough funds for the stay.
• Accommodation Evidence: Show confirmation of accommodation arrangements in Qatar.
• Business Documents: Business visitors must provide relevant documents, such as an invitation letter or business license.

Not Eligible for Visa-free entry? Qatar has got you covered, too

Travelers of all other nationalities (Check Non-Eligible Nationalities) will be required to pay a fee to obtain entry, or they can apply for a tourist eVisa before traveling. 

Qatar On Arrival Visa Programs 

Qatar provides a visa upon arrival to some selected nationalities; here is an overview of the visas available. 

Free On-arrival Tourist Visa for 90 Days Non-extendable for (43) Countries

List of countries covered by this visa:

Conditions and Requirements:

• Passport must be valid for a minimum of three months.
• A confirmed return ticket is required.
• Hotel booking in Qatar for the duration of the visit or a precise address from a friend or relative.
• Health insurance from a recognized insurance provider.

Free On-arrival Tourist Visa valid for 30 days (extendable) for 39 countries 

The following nationalities are eligible for a complimentary 30-day visa on arrival, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.

Conditions and Requirements:

• Passport must be valid for a minimum of three months.
• A confirmed return ticket is required.
• Hotel booking in Qatar for the duration of the visit or a precise address from a friend or relative.
• Health insurance from a recognized insurance provider.

Qatar-Oman Joint on-Arrival Tourist Visa for 30 days, for 6 countries, extendable:

The ‘On-arrival Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa,’ valid for 30 days with a possible extension, is currently available to citizens of the following 6 countries.

Conditions and Requirements:

• Passport must be valid for a minimum of three months.
• A confirmed return ticket is required.
• Hotel booking in Qatar for the duration of the visit or a precise address from a friend or relative.
• Health insurance from a recognized insurance provider

Free On-arrival Tourist Visa for a maximum of (30) days (Pakistani, Indian and Thai nationalities)

Pakistani, Indian, and Thai nationals are eligible for a free on-arrival tourist visa valid for up to 30 days or potentially matches their booked hotel stay (whichever is shorter).

Terms and Requirements:

• Passport must be valid for a minimum of three months.
• A confirmed round-trip ticket is required.
• Hotel reservations must be confirmed through the official website; reservations from other sites are not accepted.
• Health insurance must be from an accredited insurance provider.

Free On-arrival Tourist Visa for a maximum of 90 days (Ukrainian nationality)

Upon arrival, Ukrainian nationals receive a free tourist visa valid for up to 90 days or the entirety of their hotel reservation, whichever is shorter.

Terms and Requirements:

• Passport must be valid for a minimum of three months.
• A confirmed round-trip ticket is required.
• Hotel reservations must be confirmed through the DiscoverQatar website; reservations from other sites are not accepted.
• Health insurance must be from an accredited insurance provider.

On-Arrival Tourist or Business Visa for 30 days (Iranian nationality) for a fee

Iranian citizens can obtain a tourist or business visa upon arrival for a fee. This visa is valid for up to 30 days or the length of their hotel reservation, whichever is shorter.

Terms and requirements:

• Passport valid for at least three months.
• Confirmed round-trip ticket.
• Confirmed hotel reservation through the official website only. Hotel reservations from other sites are not accepted.
• Health insurance from one of the accredited insurance companies.
• Following Ministerial Decision No. (19) of 2007, visas are available to expatriates:

• Tourist Visa: Valid for 1 month (non-extendable) for a fee.

• Business Visa: The visa is valid for 1 month, with a paid extension possible for up to 6 months. It requires an invitation letter from a Qatari company.

On-Arrival Tourist or Business Visa for 30 days for a fee (Belarus Nationals)

Belarus citizens can obtain a tourist or business visa upon arrival for a fee, valid for up to 30 days 

Terms and requirements:

• Passport valid for at least three months.
• Confirmed round-trip ticket.
• Applicants should have US $1,000 in cash or a valid credit card for entry.
• Confirmed hotel accommodation for the duration of your stay in Qatar.
• Following Ministerial Decision No. (19) of 2007, expatriates can obtain visas:

• Tourist Visa: Valid for one month (not extendable) for a fee.

• Business Visa: Valid for one month, with extensions possible up to 3 months in total, for a fee. (An invitation letter from a Qatari business is mandatory for securing a business visa).

Single Entry On-arrival Visa for GCC Residents for (30) days, extendable

Residents of the GCC countries can get a visa upon arrival for a single 30-day visit with the possibility of an extension.

Requirements:

• Passport valid for at least 3 months.
• Confirmed round-trip ticket.
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or verifiable address of a host in the country.
• Valid health insurance from an approved provider.
• Profession listed among the 206 approved categories.

Single Entry on-Arrival Visa for those accompanying GCC Citizens for a fee, for (30) days, extendable

Visa on arrival is available for a specified fee for accompanying individuals of GCC citizens for a single trip. It is valid for 30 days and is extendable.

This visa is issued to servants accompanying their GCC citizen employer or a close relative (parents, children, spouse) on their visit to the country.

However, the servant cannot leave the country independently while the employer or relative is present.

Requirements:

• Make sure your passport has a minimum of 3 months validity from the time you arrive.
• Residence permit valid for at least six months.
• Confirmed round-trip ticket.
• Valid health insurance from an approved provider.

How to apply for a visa upon arrival in Qatar

Steps for Qatar Visa on Arrival:

• Check Eligibility: Verify if you're eligible for a Visa on Arrival by reviewing Qatar's entry requirements.

• Prepare Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, including a valid passport, return ticket, evidence of sufficient funds, and details of your booked accommodation.

• Arrival in Qatar: Enter Qatar through Hamad International Airport or another entry point.

• Fill Out Application form: Complete the Qatar visa application form provided by immigration upon arrival.

• Document Submission: Present your passport and supporting documents to immigration officials.

• Visa Fee Payment: Cash or credit card are generally accepted payment methods for the visa fee, should one be required.

• Visa Issuance: After approval, receive a visa stamp in your passport detailing the visa's validity and any conditions.

What is the cost of a Qatar On-arrival visa?

While Visa-free entry to Qatar can be impressive, the cost of a Qatar Visa on Arrival varies depending on your situation. 

Keep in mind that several factors can affect the final Visa-on-arrival fee.

• Visa Type and Duration: Different visa categories and their validity periods have different fees. Generally, extended visas cost more.
• Length of Stay: The planned duration of your visit affects the cost. Longer stays typically require a more expensive visa.
• Nationality: The fee may differ depending on your home country due to agreements between nations.
• Additional Features: Multiple-entry visas, which allow for re-entry during the validity period, often have a higher fee than single-entry visas.

How Long Does a Qatar Visa on Arrival Take?

Getting a Qatar Visa on Arrival is usually a quick process at Doha's Hamad International Airport (DOH) or other entry points. Typically, stamping your visa takes just a few minutes, allowing you to enter Qatar shortly after landing.

However, processing times can fluctuate depending on the number of travelers arriving and the time of day, which may occasionally lead to queues or waits. We recommend allowing ample time for visa processing and checking our website for the latest information before your trip to avoid delays.

Qatar Visa on Arrival vs. Qatar eVisa: What's the Difference?

Qatar offers two primary visa options for international visitors: Visa on Arrival and eVisa. Each has its own advantages and is tailored to different travel needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Qatar without a visa beforehand? My country isn't visa-free. How much does a visa on arrival cost? Is a visa on arrival faster than applying for a visa beforehand? Should I get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-Visa beforehand? My hotel isn't listed on Discover Qatar. Does that affect my visa-on-arrival eligibility?

Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in July 2024, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.