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Qatar Visa for Indians - Visa Types, Fees, and How to Apply

Team AckoMar 12, 2024

If you are travelling to Qatar, you have a range of options for obtaining a visa. Thankfully, Indian travellers planning to enter Qatar are eligible to get a visa-on-arrival without any prior arrangements for a specific period of time. The good news is that if you want to stay longer, you can now choose from many different types of visas and easily apply for one. If you are planning to visit there shortly, read our guide to learn about the different types of Qatar visa for Indian travellers, their validity, processing time and how to apply. Finally, we will answer some important questions that Indians often have about the Qatar visa. So, don’t skip!

Contents

Do Indians need a Qatar visa from India?
What are the different types of Qatar visa for Indians?
Validity of Different Types of Qatar Visas for Indians
Qatar Visa Processing Time in India
Qatar Visa Fees from India
Qatar Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens - Documents
Qatar Visa Photo Requirements
How to Apply Visa for Qatar?
Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Qatar?
How to check Qatar visa application status
Common reasons why Qatar visa application get rejected
Qatar Visa and Travel Insurance
Final Thoughts
Frequently asked questions

Do Indians need a Qatar visa from India?

Yes, if you are an Indian citizen, you need a visa to visit Qatar, regardless of the reason. Nevertheless, you do not need to make any visa plans ahead of time; you can get a visa waiver (VoA) upon arrival in Qatar by showing:

a valid passport that is valid for at least three months
a confirmed ticket to go onward or return
a confirmed hotel booking through  Discover Qatar website .

What are the different types of Qatar visa for Indians?

Depending on the purpose of the visit, there are a few types of visas to Qatar for Indians. They are:

Tourist Visa:

Tourist/Travel visas allow the bearer to enter a foreign country for tourist and leisure purposes only and stay for a predetermined amount of time.

Business Visa:

A Business Visa is a type of visa for travellers who plan to conduct business-related activities in another country, such as attending meetings or conferences, exploring business opportunities, and engaging in other permitted transactions. This type of visa does not permit work or labour to be done within the host country. It is important to know the specific activities you are allowed to do on this visa and make sure they comply with immigration regulations.

Work Visa:

Work visas allow you to work in a country. It is sort of a work permit that allows you to enter a foreign country and work there for a predetermined amount of time.

Visitor Visa:

A visitor visa, also known as a visit visa, is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows you to stay in a foreign country for a specific period. This type of visa differs from a tourist visa, which is used solely to sightsee. A visitor visa can be used for various purposes - such as short-term business meetings, medical treatments, and more.

Family Visa:

Family visas are issued to a person who establishes a family connection with any person who is a citizen of the foreign county they want to enter. There are various kinds of family visas. This will be issued for a predetermined time period. If you wish to extend your stay with the said family member, you can apply for an extension for your visa.

GCC Visa:

The GCC countries are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar and the State of Kuwait. If you reside in any of these countries (Other than Qatar), you do not need a visa to travel to Qatar. Your visa will be issued upon arrival. This depends on the purpose of your visit and the type of work.

Student Visa:

Students who wish to study at universities in any foreign country can apply for this visa and they may stay in the country till their study period is over.

Transit Visa:

Long layovers could be a hassle if you have to stay inside the airport itself. Transit visas allow you to exit the airport and visit and explore the city you are in. A Qatar transit visa is valid for 24 hours.

Validity of Different Types of Qatar Visas for Indians

The table below shows the validity of different types of Dubai visas for Indians:

Qatar long tourist visa	3 months
Qatar family visit visa	30 days
Qatar Short tourist visa:	14 days
Qatar Business Visa	30days-90 days
Qatar Work Visa	2 years
Qatar Visit Visa	6 months
Qatar Family Visa	No expiry date
Qatar long tourist visa	3 months

*Please note that the information above is just a quick look at how long different types of Qatar visas are valid for. We suggest you get the most up-to-date information from the embassy or consulate of your country.

Qatar Visa Processing Time in India

The following table shows the processing time for Qatar Visa:

Qatar Visa	Processing Time
Tourist Visa 30 days (Ages 1-55 age)	Processing time taken for visa: 7 to 10 working days.
Tourist Visa 30 days (Age 55 and above)	Processing time taken for visa: 7 to 10 working days.
Business Visa 30 days	Processing time taken for visa: 7 to 10 working days.
Business Visa 90 days	Processing time taken for visa: 7 to 10 working days.
Work Visa	Processing time taken for visa: 7 to 10 working days.

*Note these Qatar visa processing times may change as per different travel agencies and government guidelines.

Qatar Visa Fees from India

Here are some of the basic Qatar visa price for Indians that you will need to pay at the time of application, as mentioned in the table below.

Qatar Visa	Fees (INR)
Tourist Visa 30 days (Ages 1-55 age)	9,000-10,000
Tourist Visa 30 days (Age 55 and above)	14,000-16,000
Business Visa 30 days	10,000

*Note these Qatar visa fees may change as per different travel agencies and government guidelines.

Qatar Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens - Documents

You need these documents along with your application form while you are applying for a Qatar tourist visa:

Original passport with at least 6 months validity
A scan of both the beginning and ending pages of your passport is required
Passport-size photograph with white background
In case of work visa, you must have an invitation letter/sponsor letter from the company.
Return tickets from Qatar
Proof of hotel reservation through the Discover Qatar website 
Bank statement

Qatar Visa Photo Requirements

Here are the key photo requirements you need to follow during your Qatar visa application process.

The required photo size is 4.5 cm in height and 3.5 cm in width.
Colored pictures are necessary. Not black and white.
Your head must be straight.
The photo must not be older than 6 months.
The background must be white.
No smile.
The eyes should be clearly visible in the photo.
Blurry photos are rejected
Eyeglasses are acceptable under certain conditions
Wearing a head covering is not permitted. Exceptions are made on religious grounds.
The image pixel resolution should be at least 600 dpi.
Make sure your outfit stands out in comparison to the backdrop; avoid white tops.
Beard is allowed if it represents your everyday appearance.
Two photos are needed.

How to Apply Visa for Qatar?

You can either apply for a visa online or offline. For doing this offline:

You must visit the official website to apply for a visa.
Download and print the form, make sure the application form is printed on one side
You need to fill out the form and sign the visa application
Attach the required documents
Submit them to the nearest visa help desk. They will help you with further procedures.

For online application :

You must visit the official website to apply for a visa.
Fill up the online application form with the relevant details.
Submit the scanned copy of the mandatory documents.
Pay the visa fee through a debit/credit card or a MasterCard.

After submitting:

Once submitted, you can track your visa process online
The passport you submit can be collected only after 7-10 working days
You can also request for delivery of your passport at your doorstep

Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Qatar?

Yes, if you are an Indian citizen, you are eligible to get a visa on arrival if you have the following:

For at least three months, you must have a valid passport.
A confirmed hotel reservation was made through the Discover Qatar website. 
A confirmed return flight or onward ticket.

A visa-on-arrival (VoA) fee is required, and you can only stay for 3 months.

How to check Qatar visa application status

You can track the progress of your Qatar visa application through the MOI (Ministry of Interior) website.

Go to the official website.
Enter your passport number and/or Visa number.
Fill in your passport number on the respective boxes.
Submit by entering the captcha code.
Click on the Submit button.

Common reasons why Qatar visa application get rejected

Are you having trouble getting your Qatar visa approved? It happens. Certain factors sometimes cause Qatar visa rejections.

Wrong information in the visa application form: One of the most common reasons why a Qatar visa gets rejected is due to providing wrong information in the visa application form. It is important to be accurate and honest when filling out your visa application.
Criminal history: If you have a criminal record, your visa may be rejected. It is important to disclose all criminal activity when applying for a Qatar visa.
Insufficient financial records: A Qatar visa may be rejected if you do not provide adequate proof of financial support to sustain your stay in the country. You must show sufficient funds in your bank statement before submitting a visa application.
Not following the visa rules: Visa rules vary from country to country, and it is important to follow them accordingly. Failing to follow the rules may result in a Qatar visa rejection.
Missing documents: If you do not provide all required documents, your Qatar visa application may be rejected or delayed due to the lack of necessary paperwork.
Ineligible applicants: Not everyone is eligible for a Qatar visa, and if you are ineligible, your application may be rejected or put on hold until you can prove your eligibility.
Exceeding maximum stay period: If you exceed the maximum stay period allowed for a Qatar visa, your application may be rejected or put on hold until the matter is resolved with authorities.

Qatar Visa and Travel Insurance

Now that you are all set for your Qatar experience, don't forget the most important thing—travel insurance. It’s always a good idea to consider travel insurance to safeguard your trip. It may seem like a small step, but it can provide coverage for unexpected events like medical expenses, flight cancellations and delays, lost baggage, and more. So, take this extra step to make sure your trip is worry-free and unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Qatar is a great destination for Indians to travel to, and fortunately, the visa application process is fairly straightforward. With the right information and documents, you can easily apply for your Qatar visa in no time. However, it's also important to remember that certain conditions must be met for some visas. Therefore, make sure to read through all of the requirements carefully before submitting your application. With these considerations out of the way, you'll be ready to apply for your Qatar visa and enjoy an amazing trip!

Frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to the most asked common questions related to Qatar Visa for Indians.

Is Qatar work visa open for Indians?

Yes, Qatar work visas are open for Indians, and they are eligible to apply for one as long as they satisfy the requirements. Indian citizens looking to work in Qatar must have a valid Indian passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond the period of stay in Qatar.

In addition, prospective employees must have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor before they can be granted a work visa in Qatar. To apply for a Qatar work visa, applicants must submit their passport and other documents such as educational qualifications and employment letter to the Qatar Visa Centre. The approximate duration for the Qatar work visa processing is 8-10 workdays, with Fridays excluded. Once approved, the work visa allows Indians to stay in Qatar for up to two years and can be renewed each year thereafter.

It is important to note that not all professions are eligible for the work visa in Qatar, so it is important to check with the relevant authorities before applying for a work visa in Qatar.

Are children eligible to apply for a Qatar visa?

Children of any age can apply for a Qatar visa, provided that they have valid passports and the necessary documents.

Depending on the type of visa, children may need to undergo medical tests or cultural tests before they are eligible to enter Qatar.

Qatar also has rules in place for the safety and security of minors travelling alone or with adults who are not their legal guardians.

For family visas, all children must be listed on the application form and have their passport details included in order for the visa to be approved.

Finally, minors may be required to provide additional documents such as an affidavit of support and travel permission from both parents or legal guardians in order to enter Qatar, depending on the type of visa they are applying for.

Can I check Qatar visa status with my passport number?

Yes. You can check the Qatar visa application online through the official website of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) using your passport number and/or your visa number.

What are the common causes of Qatar visa rejection?

Journeying to Qatar could have a visa that is declined if the information listed on the entry form isn't accurate. Also, insufficient capital or inadequate financial documentation may cause rejection. Your banking statement must show enough resources to cater for your residence. Moreover, the institution might reject your visa application if you don't meet the prerequisites for the referred to class.

What documents do I need to provide on arrival in Qatar?

When travelling, it is necessary to present documents such as proof of vaccination, hotel reservation details, return flight tickets and evidence that you have enough funds for the trip.

Do minors qualify for a Qatar visa?

Yes, in order for minors to travel to Qatar, a visa must be obtained that corresponds with the passport information. Furthermore, if minors are recorded on a parent/guardian's passport, then an e-Visa must also be applied for.

Is COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for travelling to Qatar?

No, COVID-19 vaccination is not a requirement for travelling to Qatar. However, those who have been vaccinated will be subject to fewer restrictions upon entry than unvaccinated visitors who do not have a COVID-19 vaccine certificate. All travellers must submit the Ehteraz Pre-Entry Registration Form prior to arriving in Qatar.

What is Ehteraz Pre-Entry Registration Form of Qatar?

Visitors to Qatar must complete the Ehteraz Pre-Entry Registration Form, created by the Ministry of Public Health, in order to be granted access to the country. This form requires personal information, as well as valid vaccine certificates (if applicable), COVID-19 test results (if applicable), and additional health status details. The form is part of Qatar's national authentication system, which is used to manage the COVID-19 pandemic.

If my application for a Qatar visa is rejected, will I get a refund?

No, the application fee is non-refundable.

What will happen if I extend my stay beyond my visa's validity?

Overstaying your visa's expiration date may result in severe penalties, and you may also be denied entry into the country in the future.

How many months prior to the trip should I apply for a Qatar visa?

You should apply at least one to two months before the date you want to travel to Qatar.

Is it mandatory for Indians to get travel insurance for a Qatar visa?

No, having travel insurance is not compulsory when applying for a Qatar visa from India, but we highly recommend one. You can look at Acko Travel Insurance to find plans that fit your budget.

References:

https://www.goindigo.in/information/visa-information/qatar-qa-visa.html

https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/practical-info/visas/visa-details

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Disclaimer: The information mentioned on this page is compiled from different websites and government sources. The information may be updated from time to time. Hence, please refer to the respective government websites and verify before making any visa-related decisions.