Qatar Visa for Indians: Complete Feb 2026 Guide (Updated)

Major Changes Effective November 30, 2024

Qatar Tourism, in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, rolled out significant updates to the Hayya visa system that directly impact Indian travelers:

1. ICAO-Compliant Photo Requirement (Effective December 1, 2025) From December 1, 2025, all Indian passport applicants must submit an ICAO-compliant passport photograph. This means your photo must have a plain background, maximum 2 MB file size, and meet international civil aviation standards for biometric photos.
2. Enhanced Hayya Platform Integration The Hayya platform now offers a more streamlined application process with improved document verification and faster processing times. The system auto-extracts passport details from uploaded documents, reducing manual entry errors.
3. GCC Residents Benefit While this doesn't directly affect Indian tourists, Indians residing in GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman) now enjoy a 60-day multiple-entry visa under the upgraded Hayya A2 category, making it easier for Gulf-based Indians to visit Qatar.
4. Mandatory Hotel Booking Requirement Indian nationals must book accommodation through Discover Qatar-approved hotels before travel to qualify for Visa on Arrival. This requirement remains strictly enforced as of 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Qatar Visa on Arrival, Indian passport holders must meet these requirements:

1. Valid Passport: Minimum 6 months validity from date of entry
2. Mandatory Hotel Booking: Confirmed reservation at a Discover Qatar-approved hotel
3. Return Ticket: Confirmed onward or return flight booking
4. Sufficient Funds: Proof of financial means (credit card or cash equivalent to $1,000 USD)
5. Clean Passport: At least one blank page for visa stamp

Step-by-Step VoA Process

Step 1: Book Approved Hotel Visit the official Discover Qatar website (discoverqatar.qa) and book accommodation at an approved property. The minimum stay requirement is typically 2 nights. Keep your booking confirmation handy.

Step 2: Prepare Documents Before departure, ensure you have:

• Passport (valid for 6+ months)
• Printed hotel booking confirmation
• Return flight ticket (printed or digital)
• Credit/debit card or cash ($1,000 equivalent)
• Travel insurance (recommended)

Step 3: Arrival at Hamad International Airport Upon landing at Hamad International Airport in Doha:

• Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter (clearly marked)
• Present your passport and hotel booking confirmation
• Immigration officer will verify your documents
• Pay the visa fee of QAR 100 (if applicable) via credit/debit card or cash

Step 4: Immigration Clearance After payment, you'll receive your visa stamp. The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on queue length.

Important Notes for VoA

• Not Guaranteed: While most Indian travelers receive VoA without issues, final approval rests with the immigration officer
• Peak Season Delays: During major events (FIFA tournaments, Formula 1, etc.), expect longer processing times
• Hotel Requirement is Mandatory: Without a Discover Qatar hotel booking, you will be denied entry
• Cash Payments: If paying in cash, visit the designated bank counter before immigration

The Hayya e-Visa is the recommended option for Indian travelers who prefer to arrange their visa before departure. Here's the complete application process:

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Visit the Official Hayya Portal Go to hayya.qa (official website) or download the "Hayya to Qatar" mobile app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2: Create an Account

• Click on "Register" or "Sign Up"
• Enter your email address and create a strong password
• Verify your email through the confirmation link sent to your inbox
• Complete your profile with basic information

Step 3: Select Visa Type

• Log in to your Hayya account
• Navigate to "Apply for Visa"
• Select "Tourist Visa (A1)" from the dropdown menu
• Read the terms and conditions carefully

Step 4: Fill Application Form Provide accurate information:

• Personal Details: Full name (as per passport), date of birth, nationality, gender
• Passport Information: Passport number, issue date, expiry date, place of issue
• Contact Details: Phone number, email address, current residential address
• Travel Information: Intended arrival date, departure date, purpose of visit
• Accommodation Details: Hotel name, address, booking confirmation number

Step 5: Upload Required Documents The system will prompt you to upload:

• Passport Bio-Data Page: Clear, colored scan (JPEG/PNG, max 2 MB)
• Passport Photo: ICAO-compliant, plain background, recent (max 2 MB)
• Hotel Booking Confirmation: PDF or screenshot
• Return Flight Ticket: Booking confirmation
• Travel Insurance: Policy document (recommended but not mandatory)

Pro Tip: The Hayya system auto-extracts passport details from your uploaded document. However, always verify the extracted information for accuracy.

Step 6: Review Application

• Double-check all entered information
• Ensure uploaded documents are clear and readable
• Verify that your passport photo meets ICAO standards
• Confirm hotel booking dates match your travel dates

Step 7: Pay Visa Fee

• The system will redirect you to the payment gateway
• Fee: QAR 100 (approximately ₹2,300 or $27 USD)
• Accepted payment methods: Credit card, debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• You'll receive a payment confirmation email immediately

Step 8: Submit Application After successful payment, submit your application. You'll receive:

• Application reference number
• Email confirmation with tracking details
• Estimated processing time (1-3 business days)

Step 9: Track Application Status

• Log in to your Hayya account to check status
• You'll receive email notifications for status updates
• Statuses include: Submitted, Under Review, Approved, Rejected

Step 10: Download Approved Visa Once approved:

• Download your e-Visa from the Hayya portal
• Print a copy (color recommended)
• Save a digital copy on your phone
• Present the e-Visa at immigration upon arrival

Hayya Mobile App Benefits

The Hayya mobile app offers additional features:

• • Real-time application tracking
  • Push notifications for status updates
  • Digital visa storage
  • Event information and promotions
  • Travel planning tools
  • Offline access to your visa

Essential Documents for All Visa Types

1. Valid Passport

• Minimum 6 months validity from the intended date of entry
• At least one blank page for a visa stamp
• Passport should be in good condition (no damage, watermarks, or torn pages)
• For minors: a separate passport is required (cannot be endorsed on a parent's passport)

2. Passport-Size Photograph

• Specifications (ICAO-Compliant):
• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• Background: Plain white or light-colored
• Recent photo (taken within the last 6 months)
• Face clearly visible, no glasses, no headwear (except for religious reasons)
• Neutral expression, mouth closed
• File format: JPEG or PNG
• File size: Maximum 2 MB
• Resolution: Minimum 600 DPI

3. Hotel Booking Confirmation

• Must be from a Discover Qatar-approved hotel
• Booking dates should cover your entire stay
• Confirmation should include: hotel name, address, booking reference, guest name, check-in/check-out dates
• Minimum 2-night booking typically required

4. Return/Onward Flight Ticket

• Confirmed booking (not just itinerary)
• Should show departure from Qatar within the visa validity period
• E-ticket or booking confirmation acceptable

5. Proof of Sufficient Funds

• Bank statement (last 3 months)
• Credit card with a minimum $1,000 limit
• Cash equivalent to $1,000 USD
• Salary slips (for employed individuals)

Additional Documents for Specific Visa Types

For Business Visa:

• Invitation letter from Qatari company
• Company registration documents
• Business meeting schedule
• Previous business correspondence

For Family Visit Visa:

• Sponsor's Qatar ID copy
• Relationship proof (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• Sponsor's salary certificate
• Sponsor's tenancy agreement

For Work Visa:

• • Job offer letter
  • Employment contract
  • Educational certificates
  • Professional experience certificates
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Police clearance certificate

Official Visa Fees

*Visa on Arrival is free but requires mandatory hotel booking through Discover Qatar
**Work visa fee is covered by the sponsoring employer

Additional Costs to Consider

1. Hotel Booking: ₹3,000-15,000 per night (depending on hotel category)
   2. Travel Insurance: ₹500-2,000 for 30-day coverage
   3. Visa Extension Fee: QAR 100 (₹2,300) for 30-day extension
   4. Service Charges: Some travel agents charge ₹1,000-3,000 for assistance
   5. Document Attestation: ₹500-2,000 (if required for business/work visas)

Payment Methods

• Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
• Debit Cards: International debit cards accepted
• Cash: At airport immigration counter (QAR, USD, EUR accepted)
• Online Banking: Through Hayya portal payment gateway

Visa Processing Time 

Standard Processing Times

Hayya e-Visa (A1 Tourist): 1-3 business days
Visa on Arrival: Instant (15-30 minutes at airport)
Business Visa: 5-7 business days
Family Visit Visa: 3-5 business days
Work Visa: 2-4 weeks

Factors Affecting Processing Time

1. Application Completeness: Incomplete applications take longer
2. Document Quality: Poor quality scans may require resubmission
3. Peak Season: During major events, processing may take longer
4. Verification Requirements: Some applications undergo additional security checks
5. Public Holidays: Processing pauses during Qatar public holidays

Fast-Track Processing

Currently, Qatar does not offer official fast-track or expedited processing for tourist visas. However, you can minimize delays by:

• Applying well in advance (at least 7-10 days before travel)
• Ensuring all documents are clear and complete
• Using the Hayya mobile app for real-time tracking
• Responding promptly to any queries from immigration authorities

Indian travelers can extend their Qatar tourist visa for an additional 30 days. Here's how:

Extension Eligibility

• Original visa must be valid (apply before expiry)
• Passport must have sufficient validity
• No overstay violations
• Valid reason for extension
• One-time extension only (cannot extend beyond 60 days total)

Online Extension Process

Step 1: Visit the Qatar Ministry of Interior website (moi.gov.qa)
Step 2: Navigate to "Visa Services" > "Visa Extension"
Step 3: Enter your visa number, passport number, and nationality
Step 4: Fill the extension application form
Step 5: Upload required documents (passport copy, current visa, hotel booking for extended period)
Step 6: Pay extension fee (QAR 100)
Step 7: Submit application and receive confirmation

Extension Processing Time

• Standard: 2-3 business days
• Urgent: Same day (additional fee may apply)

Extension Fee

QAR 100 (approximately ₹2,300 or $27 USD)

Important Notes

• Apply at least 3-5 days before your current visa expires
• Overstaying without extension results in fines (QAR 200 per day)
• Extension is not guaranteed; approval is at immigration's discretion
• Keep extension approval document with you at all times

1. Not Booking Discover Qatar-Approved Hotel

Mistake: Booking accommodation through third-party sites like Booking.com or Agoda
Consequence: Visa on Arrival will be denied
Solution: Always book through discoverqatar.qa for VoA eligibility

2. Insufficient Passport Validity

Mistake: Traveling with a passport that expires within 6 months
Consequence: Denied boarding by airline or entry by Qatar immigration
Solution: Renew passport well in advance if validity is less than 6 months

3. Poor Quality Document Scans

Mistake: Uploading blurry, dark, or incomplete document scans
Consequence: Application rejection or delays
Solution: Use a scanner or high-quality phone camera in good lighting

4. Incorrect Personal Information

Mistake: Spelling errors in name, wrong passport number, incorrect dates
Consequence: Visa rejection or entry denial
Solution: Triple-check all information against your passport before submission

5. Applying Too Close to Travel Date

Mistake: Applying for e-Visa 1-2 days before departure
Consequence: Visa not processed in time, missed flight
Solution: Apply at least 7-10 days before travel

6. Not Carrying Printed Documents

Mistake: Relying solely on digital copies
Consequence: Issues if phone battery dies or technical problems
Solution: Always carry printed copies of visa, hotel booking, and flight tickets

7. Ignoring ICAO Photo Requirements

Mistake: Submitting selfies or photos with colored backgrounds
Consequence: Application rejection
Solution: Get professional passport photos or use ICAO-compliant photo apps

8. Overstaying Visa

Mistake: Staying beyond visa validity without extension
Consequence: Heavy fines (QAR 200/day), deportation, future visa bans
Solution: Track your visa expiry date and apply for extension in advance

Before You Apply

1. Check Passport Expiry: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended travel date
2. Book Refundable Hotels: If unsure about travel plans, book refundable accommodation
3. Apply Early: Don't wait until the last minute; apply 7-10 days before departure
4. Use Official Channels: Only use official websites (hayya.qa, visitqatar.com, moi.gov.qa)
5. Keep Digital Copies: Save all documents in cloud storage for easy access

During Application

1. Double-Check Information: Verify all details match your passport exactly
2. Use High-Quality Scans: Ensure documents are clear, well-lit, and complete
3. Follow Photo Guidelines: Use ICAO-compliant photos only
4. Save Reference Numbers: Keep all confirmation emails and reference numbers
5. Track Application: Regularly check application status through Hayya portal

At the Airport

1. Arrive Early: Reach airport 3-4 hours before international flights
2. Carry Printed Documents: Have physical copies of visa, hotel booking, and tickets
3. Keep Funds Accessible: Have credit card or cash readily available
4. Be Polite: Immigration officers appreciate courteous behavior
5. Have Contact Details: Keep hotel address and phone number handy

In Qatar

1. Respect Local Laws: Qatar has strict laws; familiarize yourself with them
2. Dress Modestly: Especially in public places and religious sites
3. Track Visa Expiry: Set reminders for visa expiry date
4. Keep Documents Safe: Carry passport and visa copy at all times
5. Emergency Contacts: Save Indian Embassy in Doha contact: +974 4467 4681

Official Qatar Visa Resources

Hayya Portal: https://hayya.qa
Visit Qatar: https://visitqatar.com
Qatar Ministry of Interior: https://moi.gov.qa
Discover Qatar: https://discoverqatar.qa

Indian Embassy in Qatar

Address: Al Jazira Al Arabiya Street, Diplomatic Area, Doha, Qatar
Phone: +974 4467 4681 / +974 4467 4682
Emergency: +974 3313 9863
Email: cons.doha@mea.gov.in
Website: https://indianembassyqatar.gov.in

Qatar Immigration Helpline

Phone: +974 4460 7777
Email: info@moi.gov.qa
Working Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Hamad International Airport

Information Desk: +974 4010 6666
Lost & Found: +974 4010 6767
Website: https://dohahamadairport.com

Obtaining a Qatar visa as an Indian traveler in 2025-2026 is straightforward if you follow the correct procedures and prepare your documents properly. Whether you choose the Visa on Arrival option or apply for a Hayya e-Visa in advance, both routes offer convenient access to this fascinating Gulf nation.

The key to a hassle-free experience is preparation: ensure your passport has sufficient validity, book accommodation through approved channels, gather all required documents, and apply with adequate time before your travel date. With Qatar's enhanced visa facilitation measures and the user-friendly Hayya platform, Indian travelers can now explore Doha's stunning skyline, pristine beaches, world-class museums, and rich cultural heritage with ease.

Remember to stay updated with the latest visa policies by regularly checking official sources, as immigration rules can change. Safe travels, and enjoy your Qatar adventure!

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Qatar government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Qatar visas.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.