Overview
Qatar's government-run Hayya platform, accessible through the Hukoomi e-Government portal, is where almost all visa types are applied for — Tourist Visa, GCC Resident Visa, Visa with ETA, and companion visas for those traveling with GCC citizens. Citizens of over 100 nationalities can travel visa-free or use a straightforward e-Visa; a smaller group with a valid US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand or Schengen visa/residency can use the lighter ETA route instead. The entire process — form, document upload, and payment — is self-service online.
Visa categories
| Tourist Visa (A1) | Standard tourist entry for eligible nationalities, valid for 30-day stays. |
|---|---|
| GCC Resident Visa (A2) | For holders of a valid residence permit in a GCC country. |
| Visa with ETA (A3) | For holders of a valid US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand or Schengen visa/residency. |
| Companion Visa (A4) | For companions traveling with a GCC citizen sponsor — cannot enter alone. |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of entry
- Recent color photograph, white background
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation booked through the official Qatari government booking platform, or your host's address
- For ETA applicants: your qualifying visa or residence permit (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Schengen)
- For GCC Resident Visa: proof of occupation and a valid GCC residence card
Step-by-step application process
1. Confirm which visa type applies to you
Check hukoomi.gov.qa for your nationality's requirement — tourist e-Visa, ETA, or visa-free entry.
2. Go to the Hayya platform
Start a new application through Hukoomi or the Hayya portal directly.
3. Complete the online form
Fill in passport and travel details accurately.
4. Upload your documents
Attach your photo, ticket, and accommodation proof (booked via the official Qatar platform, as other bookings aren't accepted for this purpose).
5. Pay online
Pay the applicable fee — commonly cited around QAR 100 for the tourist e-Visa.
6. Receive and print your visa
Apply at least 5 days ahead of travel to allow for processing.
Fees & processing time
| Validity | 30 days stay for Tourist/ETA/GCC Resident visas; 4 days for Transit |
|---|---|
| Fee | Around QAR 100 for the tourist e-Visa, per third-party guides — confirm current fee on the official portal |
| Recommended lead time | At least 5 days before travel |
Sources reviewed: hukoomi.gov.qa (Qatar e-Government portal, Hayya platform), moi.gov.qa (Ministry of Interior), marhaba.qa (traveler information). Eligibility and fees change — always confirm on the official Hukoomi/Hayya site before applying.