Qatar Visa Options for GCC Residents [2024]

As Qatar solidifies its position as a regional hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange, the nation has unveiled a series of visa facilitation measures tailored specifically for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

These progressive policies aim to foster closer ties with neighboring nations, streamline travel procedures, and provide a seamless experience for GCC residents exploring the rich tapestry of experiences Qatar has to offer.

For inquiries regarding your visa status, please visit our homepage at Qatar visa check.

What is The Unified GCC Tourist Visa?

In a groundbreaking initiative announced during the 40th Meeting of GCC Interior Ministers, Qatar has joined forces with its regional counterparts to introduce a unified GCC tourist visa. This innovative visa scheme, slated for implementation in the 2024-2025 timeframe, will grant seamless entry and movement across the six GCC member states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures, traditions, and attractions of the Gulf region, this unified visa promises to be a game-changer. Gone are the days of navigating complex visa application processes for each individual country, as this initiative streamlines the entire journey, allowing visitors to explore the region with unparalleled ease.

Types of Visas for GCC Residents

Qatar has implemented three distinct visa options tailored specifically for GCC residents and their companions, catering to their diverse travel needs and preferences:

1. Visa On Arrival: GCC residents meeting specific eligibility criteria can obtain a 30-day single-entry visa upon arrival in Qatar, subject to a fee of QAR 100 (approximately USD 27).
2. Hayya Visa (GCC Resident Visa A2): This online visa application system allows GCC residents to secure a 30-day visit visa in advance, providing greater certainty and convenience for their travel plans.
3. Visa for Companion of GCC Citizen (A4): Designed for those traveling with a GCC citizen sponsor, this visa enables companions to explore Qatar alongside their hosts.

Option 1: Qatar Visa On Arrival For GCC Residents

Requirements For GCC Residents Visa On Arrival

To be eligible for the 30-day Qatar visa on arrival, GCC residents must meet the following requirements:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should have a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of arrival in Qatar.
• Valid Residence Card: Your GCC residence card should have a minimum validity of three months from the intended date of arrival.
• Approved Profession: Your profession listed on the residence card must be among the 206 approved professions outlined by Qatar (see the list below).
• Confirmed Round-Trip Ticket: You must provide evidence of a confirmed round-trip airline ticket, or this requirement can be waived if traveling by land border.
• Accommodation Confirmation: Proof of a hotel reservation or a valid address of a friend or relative where you will be staying during your visit.
• Health Insurance: It is mandatory to have visitor’s health insurance from an accredited company, as required by Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health.

List of Professions Eligible for Visa on Arrival

Qatar has outlined a comprehensive list of 206 approved professions eligible for the visa on arrival. Some notable professions include:

• Accountant
• Advisor (All kinds)
• Air Safety Controller
• Analyst (Financial)
• Archaeological Researcher
• Astronomer
• Auditor (Financial – Accounts)
• Author/Writer
• Aviation Trainer
• Bank Manager
• Broadcasting Director
• Captain of a Ship/Cruise/Ferry/Tanker
• CEO/Executive Director
• Chief Justice
• Chemist (All Specializations)
• Consultant (All Specializations)
• Diplomatic (Members of Diplomatic Mission)
• Director
• Economic/Financial Expert
• Engineer
• Geologist (General)
• Hospital Manager
• Hotel Manager
• Information System Expert
• Judge
• Lawyer/Advocate
• Marine Fire Inspector
• Media Director
• Media Person
• Ministry Undersecretary
• Museum Director
• Physician (All Specializations)
• Physicist
• Pilot
• Professor
• Programmer
• Prosecutor
• Referee (Sports)
• Regional Director
• School Manager
• Scientist
• Surgeon (All Specializations)
• Television Director
• Theater Director
• University Professor
• University Rector/Chancellor
• Veterinary Doctor

Option 2: Hayya Visa For GCC Residents (Hayya A2 Visa)

Eligibility Criteria

Here’s what you’ll need to be eligible for a Hayya visa (GCC Resident Visa A2):

1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned arrival date in Qatar.
2. Residence Permit: A valid residence permit in a GCC country is required, with at least three months validity remaining from your entry date into Qatar.
3. Return Ticket (if applicable): A confirmed return flight ticket is necessary if you’re traveling by air. This requirement may be waived for those entering Qatar via land borders.
4. Accommodation: Proof of confirmed accommodation is mandatory. This can be a hotel booking, a rental agreement, or a letter from family or friends confirming your stay with them.
5. Travel from Residence Country: You must travel directly from the GCC country where you hold residency.
6. Health Insurance: You’ll need health insurance that meets the coverage requirements set by Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health.

GCC Residents Visa Fees

The cost of the GCC Residents Visit Visa is QAR 100 (approximately USD 27). The fee payment should be made using a credit or debit card, and the fees are non-refundable regardless of travel status or arrangements. It is important to note that overstaying beyond the authorized visa validity period can result in a substantial fine of QAR 200 (approximately USD 55) per day.

Visa Validity

The Hayya visa for GCC residents is valid for 30 days. However, this validity can be extended for two additional months by paying QAR 200 (approximately USD 55) per month.

How To Apply For GCC Resident Visa Through Hayya Portal

Step 1: Visit the Hayya Portal

Head to the Hayya Portal website at www.hayya.qa.

Step 2: Click on “Apply For Hayya” and Sign In

Click on the “Apply For Hayya” button, then sign up and log in to your account.

Step 3: Select Visa Category and Purpose

Choose the “GCC Resident Visa (A2)” category from the drop-down menu, and specify the purpose of your visit.

Step 4: Upload Photo and Passport

Upload your photo, ensuring it meets the specified requirements. Then, upload your passport information, making sure the machine-readable zone (MRZ) is clear.

Step 5: Enter Residency Information

Provide your country of birth, country of residence, and any previous nationality (if applicable).

Step 6: Select Job Title

Select your job title from the list of professions, or enter it manually if it’s not listed.

Step 7: Upload GCC Resident Permit

Upload a clear copy of your valid GCC resident permit.

Step 8: Provide Accommodation Details

Enter your accommodation details, whether you’ll be hosted by family and friends or staying at a hotel or rented apartment.

Step 9: Enter Contact Information

Provide your contact information and emergency contact details.

Step 10: Review and Submit Application

Carefully review all the details you’ve entered and submit your application.

Step 11: Pay Visa Fee

Once your application is approved, pay the visa fee of QAR 100 using a credit or debit card.

Hayya Entry Permit

Upon successful payment, you will receive your Hayya Entry Permit via email, which is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.

Option 3: Visa for Companions of GCC Citizens (A4)

In addition to the visa options for GCC residents themselves, Qatar has implemented dedicated visa categories to enable a seamless and hassle-free travel experience for their accompanying family members.

This visa is tailored for individuals traveling to Qatar as companions of GCC citizens who are sponsoring their visit. It allows companions to explore the country alongside their GCC citizen hosts. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Possess a valid passport with a minimum validity of three months from the intended date of entry.
2. Pay a visa fee of QR100 upon approval of the application.

Additionally, the following documents may be required:

• A copy of the GCC citizen sponsor’s residence permit or an official document stating their profession and residency validity.
• A recent passport-style photograph with a white background.

It’s important to note that while accompaniment by the GCC citizen sponsor is generally expected, authorities at the port of entry may make exceptions to this requirement on a case-by-case basis.

Visa for Non-GCC Resident Dependents (Tourist Entry A1)

For family members who aren’t GCC residents themselves, fear not! A separate Tourist Entry (A1) visa application is available. Open to citizens of over 90 countries, this visa allows them to join you in exploring Qatar’s wonders for tourism purposes.

Visa On Arrival or Hayya Visa for GCC Residents?

The choice between the visa on arrival and the Hayya visa depends on individual circumstances and preferences. If you are a GCC resident who meets the eligibility conditions for a visa on arrival and are comfortable with the potential risk of entry refusal, the visa on arrival option may be suitable. However, if you prefer the assurance of having your visa approved in advance or are uncertain about your eligibility, applying for the Hayya visa (GCC Resident Visa A2) through the online portal is the recommended route.

FAQs

To further assist GCC residents in navigating Qatar’s visa options, here are some frequently asked questions and their respective answers:

Q: Can I apply for the Qatar visa if I am a GCC citizen?

A: GCC citizens can enter Qatar freely using their national ID cards and do not require a separate visa.

Q: What if my profession is not listed among the approved professions for the visa on arrival?

A: If your profession is not among the listed approved professions, you will need to apply for the Hayya visa (GCC Resident Visa A2) through the online portal.

Q: Can I extend my stay in Qatar beyond the initial visa validity period?

A: Yes, the Hayya visa for GCC residents can be extended for an additional two months by paying a fee of QAR 200 (approximately USD 55) per month.

Q: What happens if I overstay my visa validity period?

A: Overstaying beyond the authorized visa validity period can result in a substantial fine of QAR 200 (approximately USD 55) per day.

Q: Can I apply for the Qatar visa while already in the country?

A: No, both the visa on arrival and the Hayya visa must be obtained before your arrival in Qatar. These visas cannot be applied for or extended while already in the country.

Q: Do I need to have a confirmed return ticket if I’m traveling by land border?

A: If you are entering Qatar by land border, the requirement for a confirmed return ticket can be waived.

Q: What if my accommodation arrangements change during my stay in Qatar?

A: You should update your accommodation details on the Hayya portal to ensure compliance with the visa regulations.