Qatar’s booming tourism industry reached new heights in 2023, as the nation witnessed a record-breaking influx of international visitors. Figures reveal an astounding 4.05 million tourists graced Qatar’s shores, marking a staggering 58% increase compared to the previous year.
This remarkable surge in arrivals culminated in December 2023, which welcomed an impressive 519,000 visitors alone. Underscoring this phenomenal growth, room-night demand for the entire year soared to an unprecedented 8.2 million, setting a new benchmark for Qatar’s flourishing hospitality sector.
Consider this guide as your reliable ally, steering you through the complex procedure of securing the much-desired Qatar tourist visa, also known as the Hayya A1 Visa.
In a bid to enhance the tourism experience and attract global visitors, Qatar has introduced several exciting updates to its visa policies. As of October 2023, applicants for Hayya Tourist visas may experience delays, with some waiting 2-3 weeks for approval. To stay informed and address any inquiries, travelers can reach out to Hayya Support at [email protected] or (+974) 4441 2022.
Moreover, three new e-visa categories have been introduced to the Hayya Platform, further streamlining the visa application process and catering to diverse travel needs. The Qatar Tourism Visa, previously suspended, has now been reactivated, enabling visitors to submit their documents, complete the necessary information, and pay the applicable visa fees seamlessly through the Hayya portal.
Eligibility and Requirements for the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)
The Qatar Tourist Visa (A1) is accessible to nationals of all countries, with the exception of GCC citizens, who can enter Qatar visa-free. To embark on your journey with confidence, ensure you meet the following requirements:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of admission into Qatar.
Return Flight Tickets: If traveling by air, you must have a confirmed return or onward ticket.
Hayya Entry Permit: This permit serves as your electronic visa and is obtained through the Hayya portal.
Accommodation Information: You must provide details of your confirmed accommodation, whether staying with family and friends or booking a hotel or apartment. Residents from around 90 countries are exempt from this requirement (see the list below).
Health Coverage: Travelers must possess valid health insurance that meets the requirements set by the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) in Qatar.
Cost of a Tourist Visa in Qatar
The cost of a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) is QAR 100 (approximately USD 27). However, citizens of around 90 countries are exempt from paying visa fees, making their travel to Qatar more affordable. You can find the list of visa-exempt countries at the end of this guide.
Validity of the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)
The Hayya Tourist Visa (A1) obtained through the Hayya platform is valid for 30 days (approximately 4.5 weeks) from the date of entry into Qatar. Visitors must arrive within 30 days of receiving their entry permit, which is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Applying for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) Online
The application process for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Follow these steps to navigate the process seamlessly:
Select “My Hayya” from the top right corner of the website or click “My Hayya” directly. If you’re a new user, click “Sign Up” and enter your email address to create an account. You will receive a verification code via email to complete the registration process. Once registered, log in using your email and password.
Step 3: Initiating the Application Process
Select “Apply for Hayya” from the central section of the page. Choose “Tourist Visa (A1)” from the visa category drop-down menu. Specify your visit purpose, such as leisure, sports activities, job search, business meetings, weddings, shopping, medical care, cultural tourism, visiting friends, attending conventions and events, or others, and provide a brief description.
Step 4: Providing Personal and Travel Details
Upload a recent passport-sized photograph, adhering to the specified guidelines. Submit your passport details by uploading the first page and ensuring the machine-readable zone (MRZ) is clearly visible.
Your information will be automatically extracted, but if it’s unreadable, you may need to enter it manually. Provide your residency details, including your birth country, current residency country, and any previous nationalities.
Select your accommodation type, either “Family and Friends Hosting” or “Other Accommodation” (if booking a hotel or renting an apartment). Enter your contact information, including phone number and emergency contact details.
Step 5: Submitting and Processing the Application
Review and submit your application. Upon approval, you will receive an email with a payment link to complete the visa fee payment of QR 100 (if applicable) using a credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard accepted).
Step 6: Receiving the Hayya Entry Permit
Once your application is finalized, the Hayya Entry Permit will be emailed to you. You can also access it through the “Hayya To Qatar” mobile app.
Important Documents for Traveling to Qatar on a Tourist Visa
To ensure a smooth travel experience, make sure you have the following documents ready:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in Qatar.
The completed visa application form for the Hayya Entry Permit.
A recent passport-sized photograph.
A confirmed return ticket or onward travel arrangement.
Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host in Qatar.
Valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Qatar.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Requirements
As of the latest updates, COVID-19 vaccination certificates and PCR testing are not currently required for travelers to Qatar. However, it’s advisable to check for any changes closer to your travel date.
Visa Processing Time for the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)
The visa processing time for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) is typically 10 working days. However, this duration may vary depending on the time of year and the number of applications received.
Frequently Asked Questions
To address common queries, here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1):
Q: How do I apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)?
A: You can apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) online through the Hayya portal. The application process is straightforward and involves providing the required documents and personal information.
Q: How long does it take to get a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)?
A: The visa processing time for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) is typically 10 working days, but this may vary depending on the time of year and application volume.
Q: What are the visa fees for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1)?
A: The visa fees for a Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) are QAR 100 (approximately USD 27) for adults and QAR 50 (approximately USD 13.5) for children under 18. Citizens of around 90 countries are exempt from paying visa fees.
Q: What are the prohibited items for bringing into Qatar?
A: Prohibited items for bringing into Qatar include alcohol, pork products, weapons, drugs, pornography, and materials considered offensive to Islam.
Q: What are the customs regulations for Qatar?
A: Customs regulations in Qatar include a maximum allowance of 2 cartons of cigarettes, 4 liters of alcohol, and QAR 5,000 in cash. You are also required to declare any valuables you’re bringing into the country.
Q: Who needs a Qatar Tourist Visa?
A: All visitors to Qatar, except GCC citizens, require a visa, including tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family or friends.
Conclusion
Qatar’s allure lies in its captivating blend of modernity and tradition, offering travelers a gateway to unparalleled experiences. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can seamlessly navigate the process of obtaining the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1), ensuring a hassle-free journey from start to finish.
Unlock the wonders of Qatar, immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of cultural treasures, and create lasting memories that will forever etch themselves into your wanderlust-fueled soul. With the Qatar Tourist Visa (Hayya A1) in hand, the world’s possibilities unfold before you, beckoning you to embrace the thrill of adventure and exploration in this extraordinary Middle Eastern destination.
Hey there, I’m Hamza Al-Abdullah, the brains and heart behind Qatarvisacheck.qa. Proudly rooted in the bustling city of Doha, Qatar, I’ve made it my mission to untangle the visa web for fellow travelers. My website isn’t just a hub for visa info; it’s a personalized journey through the often confusing world of travel documents.
