Qatar has introduced a mandatory health insurance requirement for all incoming visitors. This policy aims to provide peace of mind for travelers by ensuring they have adequate medical coverage in case of unforeseen health emergencies. By implementing this regulation, Qatar seeks to enhance its healthcare system and prioritize the well-being of its visitors. This guide will delve into the details of this requirement, explaining its implications for travelers and providing a step-by-step process to acquire the necessary insurance.
Visitor insurance is essential for travelers to Qatar who lack coverage from their home country or employer.
Visitors requiring a pre-arrival visa must possess a valid health insurance policy before entering the country. The insurance policy is a mandatory requirement for visa issuance.
Visitors eligible for an on-arrival visa are exempt from health insurance for the initial thirty days of their stay. However, acquiring a health insurance policy becomes compulsory if they intend to extend their visit beyond this period.
The Ministry of Public Health strongly recommends that all visitors, including those with on-arrival visas, purchase a health insurance plan that covers emergency and accident care. This measure is designed to safeguard visitors from incurring substantial healthcare costs at both public and private medical facilities.
Note: Visitors are advised to retain their health insurance policy and present it when authorities or healthcare providers request it. It is important to note that health insurance does not apply to transit passengers or individuals with temporary entry permits.
The Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has announced that citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are exempt from the mandatory health insurance requirement for visitors to the country. This exemption took effect on February 1, 2023, with the implementation of the first phase of Qatar’s Health Insurance Scheme.
According to Dr Yousef Al Maslamani, Hamad General Hospital's Medical Director, the mandatory health insurance policy applies only to non-GCC visitors. Therefore, GCC nationals can visit Qatar without purchasing the required insurance coverage.
This exemption aligns with Qatar’s Law No. 22 of 2021, which mandates health insurance for all international visitors except GCC citizens. While non-GCC tourists must have basic emergency and accident coverage, GCC nationals are not subject to this requirement during their stay in Qatar.
Visitor insurance must be obtained from either a national insurance company registered with the Ministry of Public Health or an international insurance company approved by the ministry. Insurance from any other sources would not be accepted.
The following is a list of insurance companies authorized by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) / Health Facilities Financing Department (HFID). To explore insurance options and purchase a policy, click on the desired company name to access its official website.
Insurance Companies Approved By Moph For Visitor Insurance:
On-Arrival Visa Holders: Upon purchasing the Policy, you can apply to extend your visit visa on the Ministry of Interior's website or through the Metrash App.
All visitors to Qatar are required to purchase a mandatory health insurance policy. The standard policy comes with a monthly premium.
Visitors may opt for additional coverage beyond the standard policy by purchasing top-ups. The cost of these top-ups varies depending on the specific coverage and the insurance provider.
Qatar Visitor Health Insurance offers comprehensive coverage for essential medical services, ensuring peace of mind for travelers during their stay.
General Policy Information
Remember, visitors must possess a health insurance policy issued by an insurance company registered with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). Policies from MOPH-approved international insurance companies are also valid. Visitors must ensure that their international insurance policy meets the MOPH's acceptance criteria, which include:
Your travel health insurance policy for Qatar has some important validity guidelines:
MOPH Helpline: 16000 – Extension No. (1) Dedicated to health insurance
International Number: 0097444069963
Complaints: [email protected]
The premium will vary accordingly for other visa types and durations.
Yes, your insurance policy accommodates multiple-entry visas. It remains valid from the entry date until the policy's expiration date.
No, the Visitor Health Insurance coverage is exclusively restricted to the State of Qatar.
Unfortunately, insurance premiums are non-refundable. This applies even if the visitor's stay is shorter than the visa's validity period.
Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in October 2024, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.
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