Qatar Business Visa. Qatar ranks as the second-largest natural gas exporter in the world, and many individuals apply for a Qatar Business Visa to do business in Qatar. The country’s economy has grown fastest in the Middle East and worldwide due to its abundance.
However, Qatar has been actively diversifying its economic landscape in recent years by fostering the growth of technological, manufacturing, and tourism industries.
The expanding opportunities in Qatar require companies from all over the world to obtain an appropriate business visa. We hope this comprehensive guide will assist you in applying for a Qatari business visa in 2024.
What is a Qatar Business Visa?
Qatar business visas allow foreigners to travel for business. Business visas allow you to attend conferences, conduct projects, or work in Qatar for a specified period. It depends on the type of visa you received and how long you can stay in Qatar under a business visa.
Types of Qatar Business Visa
There are two types of Qatar business visa:
A 72-hour business visa
72-hour business visas are intended for attending business meetings and conferences for a short period. The visa is issued on arrival and can be extended.
30 or 90-day business visa
Business visas with a 30- or 90-day validity are meant for long-term projects or contracts. The company should obtain this visa in advance, and it can be extended.
Obtaining a 72-hour Business Visa and its Requirements
You can obtain the 72-hour business visa right after your arrival at Qatar’s entry points like Hamad International Airport or the Abu Samara border if and only if you meet the following requirements.
- Providing relevant documents to prove your business status/background is mandatory.
- Passports must be valid for a minimum of six months.
- If you plan to visit Qatar, you should have a valid reason for doing so, such as an invitation from a reputable company.
- You will need to provide a document stating why you are visiting, for instance, an invitation letter.
- The amount of QR 5,000 must be on your credit card or in cash.
- You must confirm your hotel reservation for the entire duration of your stay.
- If you are leaving or returning, you must present your ticket.
Short-term business trips to Qatar can be accommodated with this visa option at specified entry points with a simple, straightforward process.
How To Get 72 Hours Qatar Business Visa On Arrival
Businessmen are issued this type of visa at the entry borders (Hamad International Airport or Abu Samara border). Below are the requirements:
- If required, the visitor should produce documents proving his business status.
- A visitor must have a valid reason for visiting the country, such as visiting an accredited company.
- Visitors must have a credit card with a balance of QR 5,000 or its cash equivalent.
- For the period of stay, the visitor should have a hotel reservation.
- Return tickets should be held by him.
Qatar Business Visa Eligibility and Requirments
The eligibility criteria for obtaining a Qatar business visa are straightforward.
- You must be traveling to Qatar for business or professional reasons.
- You must be above the age of 18.
- You must have a valid passport for six months.
- You must not have any criminal records.
- You must have all the valid documents provided by your company.
Documents Required for a Qatar Business Visa
Qatar business visa applications require the following documents. To prevent any delays in the application process, make sure all documents are complete and meet the criteria.
- This document demonstrates the visitor’s profession or validates his status as a businessman.
- Passport with a validity of at least 6 months.
- Fill out the visa application form.
- A passport-sized color photograph.
- A clear copy of the passport.
- A copy of a valid establishment ID is required.
- Payment of the Visa fee by bank card.
- A copy of your income tax return.
- This document is a cover letter signed by an authorized person and includes their designation, company name, and stamp.
- Return and departure air tickets.
How to Apply For Qatar Business Visa Online
Qatar business visas can be applied for in several ways, so you can choose one that suits you best.
1. Online Application via Hukoomi Portal
- Please fill out the online application form with all the necessary information.
- Please attach copies of your passport, your establishment’s ID, and your professional credentials.
- Pay the applicable fee upon approval.
2. Application via MOI e-services Portal
- You can log in to the MOI portal using your smart card.
- Go to “Visa Services”, click “Issue Visa”, and then select “Business Visa”.
- Please provide your name, birthday, birthplace, passport information, contact details, and address.
- To receive a digital receipt for your visa application, please provide your current email address.
- Check your details and confirm them.
- Pay for the visa issuance.
3. Offline Application
- A business visa should be applied for only by companies that are legally registered and with a good reputation in Qatar.
- Fill out the application form on paper by downloading and printing it.
- Please submit the form along with the required documents to the Unified Services Center.
- Pay the processing fee.
How to Extend a Qatar Business?
If you would like to extend the validity of your visa, follow these steps.
- Step 1: Go to the official MOI website.
- Step 2: Select Visa Extension Service.
- Step 3: Fill out all necessary information correctly. You can use your “Visa Number” or “Passport Number”.
- Step 4: Select your “Nationality“
- Step 5: Fill out the “Captcha“
- Step 6: Select “Extend” and select the desired extension time.
Qatar Business Visa Extension Application Form
Qatar Business Visa Status
Qatar has reduced the number of business visas issued as a result of travel restrictions after the pandemic. Today, business visas are primarily granted to government or semi-government companies or large projects. Hence, smaller businesses have a lower approval rate.
Qatar Business Visa Validity
Qatar Business Visa validity depends on the type of visa, as explained above.
| Visa Type | Normal Visa Validity |
| 72-Hour Business Visa | 72 Hours |
| 30 Days Business Visa | 30 Days |
| 90 Days Business Visa | 90 Days |
Qatar Business Visa Price
Qatar Business Visa costs vary depending on the duration of the visa.
| Visa Type | Visa Price |
|---|---|
| 72-Hour Business Visa | QR 50 |
| 30 Days Business Visa | QR 200 |
| 90 Days Business Visa | QR 600 |
Qatar Business Visa Processing Time
A Qatar business visa can be issued within 3 to 6 business days by Qatar’s visa issuance authorities. However, this time could vary depending on factors such as public holidays, workload, incomplete documents, or attestation requirements.
Extension of Qatar Business Visa
Qatar e-Visas will incur additional fees if they are extended beyond their normal validity period:
- Long-term Business Visa Extension: QR 200 per month
- 72-hour Business Visa Extension: QR 50 for an additional 72 hours
Expired Visa Fine
A fine of QR 200 per day will be imposed if your business visa expires.
Advantages of Qatar Business Visa
Here are some of the advantages of the Qatar Business Visa:
- The process for obtaining a business visa is relatively simpler than for obtaining an employment visa
- Business owners are allowed to use your services
- There is no contract binding you to sponsorship or employment
FAQs About Qatar Business Visa
Q1) How can I get a business visa in Qatar?
Ans:- Visas for 72-hour business travel can be obtained on arrival. Qatari businesses should apply for a 30-day or 90-day business visa.
Q2) Can I change my business visa to a work visa in Qatar?
Ans:- The company that applied for your Qatar business visa can give you a letter of approval allowing you to convert your visa to a work visa.
Q3) How much is a business visa for Qatar?
Ans:- The cost of a 72-hour business visa on arrival is QR 50, while the cost of a 30-day business visa is QR 200.
Conclusion
Qatar Business Visa is a streamlined process that enables professionals and entrepreneurs to explore the country’s thriving economy. With various visa options available, individuals can easily engage in business activities while contributing to Qatar’s continued economic growth.