Qatar Visa on Arrival 2025 Guide: Eligible Countries Requirements Process

Qatar has established one of the most accessible visa systems in the Middle East, allowing travelers from 102 countries to enter with visa-on-arrival (visa free entry) privileges. This comprehensive guide details which nationalities can benefit from this system in 2025, what requirements they must meet, and any special considerations for specific nationalities.

Qatar Visa on Arrival Duration Categories

Qatar’s visa-on-arrival system is divided into two main categories based on the duration of stay permitted:

90-Day Stay Countries (180-day visa waiver)

Citizens from the following countries receive a visa waiver valid for 180 days from issuance, allowing stays of up to 90 days either in a single visit or across multiple trips:

30-Day Stay Countries

Nationals from these countries receive a 30-day visa waiver that can typically be extended for an additional 30 days:

Learn more about the Qatar Visas available to US Citizens.

General Requirements for All Visa-on-Arrival Applicants

Even though nationals of over 100 countries are eligible for a visa on arrival, there are still certain requirements that must be met for entry into Qatar. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Qatar. This is a standard requirement for all travelers, regardless of their nationality.

2. Return or Onward Ticket

You must have a return ticket or a ticket for onward travel. Immigration authorities want to make sure that visitors are not staying longer than permitted.

3. Proof of Accommodation

For the duration of your stay, you must provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or an invitation from a host in Qatar. Travelers coming through Qatar Airways are often required to book through Discover Qatar for smoother processing.

4. Health Insurance

Since February 2023, Qatar requires all travelers entering the country to have travel health insurance that covers the duration of their stay. You can either purchase insurance before your trip or at the airport (typically costing around QAR 50 for 30 days of coverage).

5. Sufficient Funds

Although not always requested, it is advisable to show proof of sufficient funds or a credit card as immigration officers may ask for evidence that you can support yourself during your stay.

Special Requirements for Specific Nationalities

While the visa-on-arrival policy applies broadly, certain nationalities have additional requirements:

Country-Specific Requirements

Pakistani Citizens

• Entitled to a 30-day free visa on arrival
• Must book hotel through Discover Qatar website
• Need an international debit or credit card as financial proof
• Required to present a polio vaccination certificate

Indian Nationals

• Eligible for a 30-day free visa
• Hotel reservation must be through Discover Qatar
• If traveling with family, one credit card is sufficient as financial proof

Learn more about the Qatar Visas available to Indian Citizens.

Thai Nationals

• Can obtain a 30-day free visa extendable for another 30 days
• Hotel reservation through Discover Qatar required
• International debit/credit card needed

Iranian Citizens

• On-arrival visa available for 30 days (minor fee may apply)
• Hotel reservation through Discover Qatar required
• International debit/credit card needed

Learn more about the Qatar Visas available to Iranian.

GCC Residents Special Provisions

Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) with valid residence permits can obtain a visa on arrival under these conditions:

• Residence permit must be valid for at least six months
• Must be traveling from a GCC country
• Must have a profession on the approved list of eligible occupations
• Visa valid for 30 days, extendable for up to two more months
• Return ticket and hotel booking required

How to Get a Visa on Arrival in Qatar (Step-by-Step)

The process of obtaining a visa on arrival in Qatar is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you land at Hamad International Airport in Doha:

Before You Travel

Make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Passport with 6-month validity
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Hotel booking (or accommodation details)
• Travel health insurance (if applicable)

Arriving at the Airport

Once your flight lands at Hamad International Airport, follow the signs for Visa on Arrival or Foreign Nationals. There are dedicated counters where you will get assistance.

At Immigration

• Present your passport, return ticket, hotel booking, and insurance proof.
• Answer any questions immigration officers may ask about the purpose of your visit or the length of your stay.

Visa Issuance

• If you meet the requirements, the officer will stamp your passport with a visa that indicates the allowed stay (either 30 days or 90 days).
• If needed, you will be directed to purchase health insurance at the airport (for around QAR 50).

Collect Your Luggage

After immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area, collect your luggage, and you’re free to enjoy your stay in Qatar.

Duration of Stay and Extension Policy

How Long Can I Stay with a Visa on Arrival?

The length of stay granted upon arrival depends on your nationality:

• Citizens from most countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and others, will receive a 30-day visa.
• Nationals from certain countries, like those from the European Union, Canada, Australia, and others, are eligible for a 90-day visa.

Extension of Stay

• If you were granted a 30-day visa, you can usually extend it for another 30 days for a total of 60 days.
• 90-day visas cannot be extended further. If you wish to stay beyond the initial period, you will need to exit Qatar and re-enter after a specified period.

To extend your visa:

1. Visit the Ministry of Interior’s website or go to an Immigration Office in Doha.
2. Pay the extension fee (approximately QAR 100).
3. Ensure you have valid health insurance for the extension period.

Benefits of Qatar Visa on Arrival

Qatar’s visa on arrival program offers several advantages:

• Convenience: No need to apply for a visa in advance
• Time-Saving: Eliminates lengthy pre-travel visa application processes
• Cost-Effective: Free for most eligible nationalities
• Flexibility: Option to extend stay for many nationalities
• Simplicity: Streamlined process with minimal documentation requirements

Qatar Visa on Arrival vs. Other Visa Types

Visa on Arrival vs. Visa-Free Entry

In 2025, Qatar Tourism rebranded “visa on arrival” as “visa-free entry” for many countries. Despite the rebranding, the process remains largely the same – eligible travelers can enter Qatar without applying for a visa beforehand, instead receiving entry permission upon arrival.

In addition to the visa on arrival and visa free entry, Qatar offers several other types of visas:

e-Visa (Tourist Visa)

If you are from a country not eligible for visa on arrival, you can apply for a Qatar e-Visa online. The e-Visa is suitable for tourists, business visitors, or those attending events. The process is straightforward, and it’s typically processed within 48 hours.

GCC Residents

Citizens of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait) do not require a visa to enter Qatar. GCC residents can also avail of the visa-on-arrival service if they meet certain conditions.

Transit Visa

Qatar also offers a transit visa for travelers who have a long layover (more than 5 hours) in Doha. This visa allows you to explore the city during your transit and is valid for up to 96 hours. This can be obtained through Qatar Airways or the Qatar Visa Center.

Recent Updates for 2025

The Qatar visa-on-arrival system has seen some notable updates in 2025:

• Health insurance is now mandatory for visa extensions or stays beyond 30 days
• The visa process has been rebranded from “visa on arrival” to “visa-free entry” in many official communications, though the process remains essentially the same
• Hotel booking through Discover Qatar is strictly enforced for the specified nationalities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Countries Are Eligible for Qatar Visa on Arrival?

Citizens from over 100 countries are eligible, including nationals from the United States, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and many Asian and African countries. Check the official list for the full list of eligible nations.

2. Is Qatar Visa on Arrival Free of Charge?

Yes, for most nationalities, the visa on arrival is free. However, travelers will need to pay for health insurance if staying for more than 30 days.

3. Can I work in Qatar with a Visa on Arrival?

No, the Visa on Arrival is strictly for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Employment requires a work visa sponsored by a Qatari employer.

4. What happens if I overstay my visa?

There is a fine of QAR 200 (USD 55) for each day you overstay beyond the permitted duration.

5. Can I Extend My Qatar Visa on Arrival?

Yes, you can extend your 30-day visa for another 30 days, but 90-day visas cannot be extended. You can extend your visa at an Immigration Office or through the Ministry of Interior’s website.

6. Can I Get Qatar Visa on Arrival If I Am From India or Pakistan?

Yes, Indian and Pakistani citizens can get a visa on arrival for 30 days, but they must meet additional requirements such as hotel booking and travel health insurance.

Conclusion

Qatar’s visa-on-arrival policy makes it one of the most accessible destinations in the Middle East for international travelers. With over 95 countries eligible for simplified entry, Qatar has successfully positioned itself as a global tourism and business hub. Travelers should verify the most current requirements before departure, as visa policies may undergo periodic updates. For nationalities not listed among the eligible countries, pre-arranged visas through Qatar’s embassies or the Hayya platform remain necessary.