Having a layover at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport might require a Qatar Transit visa. Depends on a number of factors, including the airline you’ve chosen, the kind of tickets you’ve booked, and whether or not you intend to leave Qatar airport.
What is Transit Visa?
A transit visa is a temporary travel authorization that allows passengers to pass from one country to another through a foreign country. When traveling from country A to country C via country B, you might need a transit visa.
In most cases, transit passengers travelling through Qatar (who do not plan to leave Doha Airport) do not need a Transit Visa.
It is possible to need a visa in certain cases (for instance, when you have two separate airline tickets and need to collect your baggage to check in for the connecting flight).
Qatar Transit Visa Updates
- Qatar offers free transit visas for travellers with layovers between 5 hours and 96 hours at Hamad International Airport since 2016.
- A Qatar visa can be obtained on arrival by citizens of more than 101 countries.
- As long as you don’t intend to leave the Qatar airport, you don’t need a transit visa.
- We would like to inform you that Qatar Airways’ Online Transit Visa Service has been suspended at present.
- In accordance with the requirements, GCC residents can obtain an on-arrival visa for Qatar.
- Nationalities not eligible for Qatar Airways can contact the Qatar Airways office or apply through the Hayya website for an Online Tourist Visa.
Qatar Airport has updated its transit system to improve the transit experience for travellers.
How To Apply For Qatar Transit Visa?
Qatar Airways recommends following the application process outlined on its website in order to obtain a Transit Visa. Currently, the online transit visa application service is unavailable. Ticketing assistance is still available to non-eligible nationalities through the Qatar Airways ticketing office.
The stopover package offered by Qatar Airways includes hotel accommodations and city tours in addition to the transit visa. There is no fee for the transit visa, and it is valid for 96 hours. You can check the status of your visa application using the visa request number or by sending an email to ([email protected]).
Qatar Transit Visa Requirements
The following conditions must be met in order to qualify for a Qatar Transit Visa:
Passport Requirements
- Passports are required for all passengers (including infants).
- Passports must be valid for at least six months when entering Qatar (not when applying).
- There must be a match between the name on your passport and the name on your booking.
- Qatar Airways requires a clear copy of your passport.
Ticket Requirements
- The Qatar Airways ticket document must include confirmations for both the arrival in Qatar and departure from Qatar.
- There should be a minimum of five hours of layover time in Qatar.
- The flights must be operated by Qatar Airways.
- In the case of travel where Doha is the point of turnaround, the facility is not applicable.
- At boarding and upon arrival in Qatar, customers must present a copy of the transit visa.
Visa Application Period
You should apply for a transit visa at least seven days before your expected arrival in Qatar, and no more than 90 days before your departure.
Visa Processing Time
There is a minimum processing time of seven days for transit visa applications, excluding public holidays.
Qatar Transit Visa Validity
There is a 96-hour validity period for the entry. This scheme prohibits staying longer than 96 hours.
It is necessary to enter Qatar with an approved visa within 30 days of the date it was issued. The validity of a visa cannot be extended; in this case, a new visa application is required.
Qatar Transit Visa Cost
Transit visas are free for 96 hours. In addition to airfare, the passenger is responsible for lodging costs in Qatar.
Approval Authority
Qatar’s immigration authorities will determine who can enter the country. Qatar Airways acts only as a processing agent for visa applications. The Ministry of Interior will not be responsible for any expenses incurred if the visa is delayed or rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Qatar Airport requires a transit visa?
You do not need a transit visa if you intend to stay within the Qatar airport and do not plan to leave. Transit visitors in Qatar do not need a visa if they are only staying in the transit zone, unlike some other countries.
What is the cost of a Qatar Transit visa and how long is its validity?
It costs nothing to obtain a Qatar Transit visa, and its validity is limited to 96 hours (4 days). This type of visa does not allow you to extend your stay.
Is it possible to extend my Qatar Transit Visa?
Unfortunately, no. Visas cannot be extended beyond 96 hours.
