If you’re a resident of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country and looking to visit Qatar, you’re in luck! Qatar’s Hayya portal now offers a specialized visa category specifically for residents of GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
This article provides all the necessary details regarding how to apply for the Qatar Visa for GCC residents, eligibility requirements, application process, visa fees, and important documents needed for travel.
What is Qatar GCC Visa?
On April 16, 2023, the Qatari government announced the introduction of a 30-day visa for residents of GCC countries and their accompanying family members. This move aims to facilitate travel and tourism among Gulf nations while enhancing regional connectivity.
How to Apply for a Qatar GCC Visa Online
Applying for a Qatar Visa for GCC residents is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps via the Hayya platform. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Hayya Portal: Go to www.hayya.qa.
- Sign Up: Create an account by entering your email address and verifying it through the code sent to your email.
- Upload Required Documents: This includes your passport and residency permit.
- Pay the Visa Fee: After document submission, pay the visa fee online.
- Await Approval: Once your application is reviewed, you will receive an approval notification.
Eligibility for Qatar GCC Visa
To be eligible for the Qatar Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of entry.
- GCC Residency Permit: A valid residency card issued by any GCC country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, or UAE) is required. The residency permit must have been issued at least three months prior to the application.
- Return Ticket: If arriving by air, travelers must possess a return ticket.
- Accommodation Confirmation: Proof of accommodation in Qatar, whether through a hotel booking or hosted by family/friends.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory, as per the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) guidelines.
Visa Fees for GCC Residents
The cost of the GCC Residents Visit Visa is QAR 100 (approximately USD 27). Payment must be made using a credit or debit card during the application process. Note that a daily fine of QAR 200 (USD 55) will be imposed for overstaying beyond the permitted duration.
Refund Policy
It’s important to note that visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the travel status. Fees are paid only after the visa is approved.
Validity of the Visa
The Qatar Visa for GCC residents is valid for 30 days from the date of entry.
Qatar GCC Visa Application Process
To streamline the application process for the GCC Resident Visa through the Hayya portal, follow these steps:
- Visit the Hayya Portal: Navigate to www.hayya.qa.
- Select “Apply For Hayya”: Click on the button located in the center of the homepage.
- Create an Account: Register by clicking “Sign Up” and enter your email address. Verify your account using the code sent to your email.
- Log In: Use your registered email and password to log in.
- Choose Visa Category: Select “GCC Resident Entry (A2)” from the dropdown menu.
- Purpose of Visit: Indicate the reason for your visit, such as leisure, business, or medical care.
- Upload Required Documents: Upload your personal photo and passport. Ensure your photo meets the specifications outlined on the website.
- Residency Information: Enter details about your residency and previous nationalities if applicable.
- Select Job Title: Choose from a comprehensive list of over 200 professions. Make sure your job title matches your residency permit to avoid entry issues.
- Upload Resident Permit: Include a clear copy of your GCC residency permit.
- Accommodation Details: Specify your accommodation type, whether hosted by family/friends or a hotel.
- Contact Information: Enter your phone number and emergency contact information.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all information before submission.
- Payment: Once approved, you will receive a payment link via email to pay the visa fee.
Important Documents Required for Qatar GCC Visa
When traveling to Qatar, ensure you have the following documents on hand:
- Valid passport
- Hayya Entry Permit
- GCC residence card
- Return flight tickets (not needed for land border crossings)
- Accommodation booking details (host invitation and QID or hotel booking)
- Health insurance documentation
Visa for Accompanying Family Members
GCC residents can also apply for visas for their family members. Each family member, such as a spouse or child, must submit a separate application. If the dependent is not a GCC resident, a separate Tourist Entry (A1) application must be completed.
Profession List for Visa Application
The following professions are eligible for the Qatar Visa for GCC residents. Applicants must select their job title from this comprehensive list, which includes:
- Accountant
- Air Hostess
- Architect
- Engineer
- Journalist
- Nurse
- Teacher
- Scientist
- And many more…
Vaccination & Quarantine Requirements for Qatar GCC Visa
As of November 1, 2022, travelers to Qatar are not required to quarantine unless they test positive for COVID-19. Additionally, travelers do not need to undergo COVID testing or register with the Ehteraz app prior to travel. The Ehteraz app is only required for accessing health centers in Qatar.
Contact Information for Hayya Support
For any queries related to the Hayya platform, you can reach their contact center by calling 2022 from within Qatar or +974 4441 2022 from abroad. You can also send an email to [email protected] for assistance.
Conclusion
Qatar welcomes visitors from all around the world, and residents of GCC countries enjoy a streamlined process for obtaining a visa. By following the guidelines provided in this article, applicants can easily navigate the online application system, ensuring a smooth entry into this vibrant nation.
Whether traveling for business, leisure, or to visit family, the Qatar Visa for GCC residents provides a convenient pathway for enriching experiences in Qatar.