Qatar Transit Visa Guide: How to Apply, Requirements, and Tips

Qatar Transit Visa Overview
A Qatar Transit Visa allows travelers to pass through Qatar during a layover on their way to another destination. Whether one is required depends on factors such as the airline, ticket type, and whether the traveler plans to leave the airport.

What Exactly is a Transit Visa?
A transit visa is a temporary permit that allows passengers to travel through a country while en route to another. For instance, when traveling from country A to country C with a stopover in country B, a transit visa for country B may be required.

In most cases, if you're staying within Hamad International Airport and do not plan to exit, you will not need a transit visa. However, if you have separate tickets and need to collect baggage, a visa may be necessary.

Recent Updates on Qatar’s Transit Visa Policy
Since 2016, Qatar has provided free transit visas for travelers with layovers of 5 to 96 hours at Hamad International Airport. Citizens from over 101 countries can obtain a visa on arrival, and if you remain in the airport's transit area, no visa is required. The Qatar Airways Online Transit Visa Service is currently unavailable, but travelers from non-eligible countries can contact Qatar Airways or apply for a tourist visa via the Hayya website.

Steps to Obtain a Qatar Transit Visa
To get a Qatar Transit Visa, Qatar Airways recommends following the steps listed on their official website. While the online service is temporarily suspended, passengers from non-eligible countries can still receive support at the Qatar Airways ticketing office. Additionally, Qatar Airways offers a stopover package that includes hotel accommodation and city tours, alongside the free transit visa valid for 96 hours. To track the status of your visa, you can use your request number or email qatartransitvisa@qatarairways.com.qa.

Requirements for a Qatar Transit Visa
The following conditions apply for obtaining a Qatar Transit Visa:

• Passport Conditions: Passports must be valid for at least six months upon entry into Qatar. The name on your passport must match the one on your flight booking.
• Ticket Requirements: Your Qatar Airways ticket must include both arrival and departure confirmations for Qatar. The layover must be at least five hours. Only Qatar Airways flights are eligible, and the transit visa is not available for those whose journey turns around in Doha.
• Application Timeline: You should apply for the transit visa at least seven days before your planned arrival, but not more than 90 days in advance.
• Visa Processing Time: Transit visa applications take at least seven days to process, excluding public holidays.

Validity and Limitations of the Qatar Transit Visa
The Qatar Transit Visa is valid for up to 96 hours. You must enter Qatar within 30 days of issuance, and the visa cannot be extended. If you need a longer stay, a new visa application will be required.

Cost of a Qatar Transit Visa
A Qatar Transit Visa is free of charge, but travelers are responsible for covering their accommodation costs in Qatar.

Who Approves the Qatar Transit Visa?
Qatar's immigration authorities determine who is allowed entry into the country. Qatar Airways processes visa applications but is not responsible for delays or rejections.

Common Queries Regarding the Qatar Transit Visa

• Do I need a transit visa for Qatar?
  No, if you stay within the transit zone of the airport and do not leave.

• What is the cost and validity period of the Qatar Transit Visa?
  The visa is free and valid for up to 96 hours. It cannot be extended.

• Can I extend my Qatar Transit Visa?
  No, the visa cannot be extended beyond 96 hours.