How to Get Qatar Transit Visa in 2024 | Complete Guide

In the modern world, it is not uncommon for individuals to engage in international travel. Consequently, transit visas have become indispensable in ensuring smooth travels for passengers.

In November 2016, the Qatari government launched the innovative Qatar Transit Visa initiative to enhance the travel experience for passengers in transit. 

In this discussion, I will provide an explanation regarding the necessity of a Qatar transit visa at Qatar Airport. This will involve clarifying the existing visa regulations, exemption criteria, and the procedures for applying for such a visa.

Qatar Transit Visa Updates 2024

If you are transiting through Doha Airport and do not intend to leave the transit area, a transit visa is not required. However, there are exceptions where a visa is necessary:

1. If you plan to exit the airport to explore Doha.
2. If you require the retrieval of your luggage from one airline and the subsequent check-in with another, please proceed accordingly.

It’s important to note that Qatar Airways has halted its Online Transit Visa Service for several years. Should you need a visa, nationals from over 90 countries can avail themselves of the Visa On Arrival (VOA) service without any fee.

If your nationality doesn’t qualify for the VOA, you should contact the nearest Qatar Airways office for assistance. Alternatively, you have the option to submit your application for an Online Tourist Visa through the Hayya portal.

What is a Transit Visa?

Understanding the concept of a transit visa is crucial. A transit visa serves as a temporary travel permit that enables individuals to travel through a foreign country while en route to another location. Transit passengers in Qatar are generally not required to obtain a transit visa as long as they stay within the airport transit area.

however, there are specific things where a transit visa might be necessary. For instance, passengers with separate tickets from different airlines or those who need to retrieve their luggage for connecting flights may require a transit visa.

To ascertain whether a transit visa is required, it is imperative to thoroughly review the specific requirements and scenarios.

What is Qatar Transit Visa?

The validity and duration of the Transit Visa in Qatar are important factors to consider for travelers who wish to explore the city of Doha during their layover. This optional travel visa allows transit passengers to leave the airport transit area and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Doha. 

Qatar Airways passengers can avail of this visa if they have a layover of at least 5 hours, and it remains valid for a maximum of 96 hours. It is important to mention that this visa is provided free of cost and is accessible to passengers of any nationality. To provide a clearer understanding of its validity and duration, please refer to the following table:

Visa Type	Duration	Cost
Transit Visa	5 to 96 hours	Free of charge

Who is Eligible for the Qatar Transit Visa?

To be eligible for the complimentary Qatar transit visa, you need to satisfy the following conditions:

Passport Requirements

• Every traveler, regardless of age, must possess a valid passport
• Your passport should have a validity of at least six months from the date of arrival in Qatar
• The name on your flight reservation must correspond with your passport

Qatar Airways Ticket Conditions

• Both your incoming and outgoing flights must be with Qatar Airways
• Your stopover in Doha must be a minimum of five hours
• The flights must be conducted by Qatar Airways
• The visa is not applicable for passengers utilizing Doha as a turnaround destination.

How To Apply For Qatar Transit Visa?

Passengers who wish to acquire a Qatar Airways Transit Visa must adhere to the application procedure specified by Qatar Airways. Currently, the online system for submitting applications for transit visas is not functioning. 

However, individuals hailing from countries that are not eligible can still contact the Qatar Airways ticketing office for assistance. Additionally, Qatar Airways provides stopover packages which include hotel accommodations, city tours, and transit visas.

It is crucial to highlight that the transit visa is complimentary and remains valid for a maximum of 96 hours. To verify the status of the visa application, passengers can utilize the visa request number or the provided email address (qatartransitvisa@qatarairways.com.qa).

The table below depicts the visual representation of the application process.

• Step 1: Qatar Airways ticketing office
• Step 2: Submit required documents
• Step 3: Check visa application status
• Step 4: Receive approved transit visa

Add Doha as a Stopover on Qatar Airways

These are the instructions to add Doha as a layover to your Qatar Airways reservation:

1. Visit the Qatar Airways booking website and click on ‘Advanced Search’.
2. Choose the ‘Multi-city’ booking option.
3. Add Doha as a transit point for either your arrival or departure.
4. Choose your desired Qatar Airways flights.
5. Finalize your flight booking.
6. Apply for your complimentary Qatar Transit Visa.

What to Do If Your Visa on Arrival Is Rejected?

If travelers are unable to acquire a visa upon arrival in Qatar, they can choose to continue their journey to the subsequent destination at their own financial liability. Alternatively, they will be obligated to bear the expenses of returning.

Transit Scenarios in examples:

The second question pertains to the method by which you have booked your flights. Allow me to provide an example where you are traveling from New Delhi to Bangkok via Doha. Here are several possible scenarios:

1. Transiting through Doha on a single ticket with the same airline: 

In this case, you have made a single reservation (from New Delhi to Bangkok) through Airline Xyz’s website and made a single payment. However, the airline has assigned two flights on the same airline for your journey: one from New Delhi to Doha on Airline Xyz and another from Doha to Bangkok on Airline Xyz. In this situation, Airline Xyz will oversee your transit, and you will not be required to collect your checked-in luggage as the airline will handle it.

2. Transiting through Doha on a single ticket with two different airlines:

 In this scenario, you have booked and paid for a single flight (New Delhi to Bangkok) through Airline X’s website. However, the airline has assigned two flights with two different airlines: one from New Delhi to Doha on Airline X and another from Doha to Bangkok on Airline Y (which shares a code with Airline X). 

The responsibility for your transit lies with the airlines mentioned above, and you will not need to collect your checked-in luggage as they will manage it. Since you will not be going through immigration, you will not require a transit visa for Qatar.

3. Transiting through Doha on separate tickets with different airlines: 

In this situation, you have booked two flights with different airlines (Airline X and Airline Y) or through the same airline’s website (Airline X). In this case, it is your responsibility to collect your checked-in luggage. To retrieve your luggage from the conveyor belts located outside the immigration counters, you will need to go through immigration. 

This means that you will require a visa, even if you are not flying out of the airport. You must fulfill all the requirements for a visitor visa, including having health insurance (for all visiting visas) and hotel reservations (in some cases).

In all cases, you will be required to pick up your luggage from the Arrivals area and then proceed to check-in for your next flight.

Helpline Qatar Government

For more information, call the Qatar Government Helpline at

• 109 (inside Qatar)
• +974.44069999 (from outside Qatar)
• contact@hukoomi.ga (Email Adress)

Can I Stay in Qatar Without a Transit Visa?

More than 101 Countries are allowed to enter Qatar without the need to apply for visas in advance. This includes the privilege of visa-free access for stays of up to 90 days.

However, if you do not qualify for visa-free entry, it is necessary to obtain a pre-approved Qatar transit visa for layovers lasting between 5 to 96 hours. It is important to note that the maximum duration for this visa is strictly four days, and extensions are not permitted.

The positive news is that Qatar now offers 96-hour transit visas at no cost. This has replaced the previous Hayya card system.

Furthermore, Qatar has an excellent visa-on-arrival program, which allows citizens from more than 95 countries to easily obtain visas upon their arrival in Doha, without the need for pre-approval.

Is Qatar ID Valid as a Transit Visa?

No, only individuals who are residents of Qatar can utilize their Qatar ID for immigration or transit purposes. Passports are universally acknowledged credentials that verify one’s eligibility and immigration status.

Who is responsible for approving Qatar transit visa applications?

Qatar Airways facilitates the submission of visa applications and document processing for travelers, however, the final approval authority lies with the Ministry of Interior in Qatar. 

Qatar Airways is not liable for any delays or rejections in the visa processing. All visitors need to wait for the entry requirements set by Qatari immigration authorities. 

Qatar Transit Tours

Qatar Airways provides an excellent range of Qatar Airport Transit tours through its Discover Qatar experiences, catering to travelers with longer layovers. These professionally guided excursions offer the opportunity to explore the top attractions of Qatar within a limited timeframe.

There are various popular options available, including cultural tours, desert safaris, golfing, dhow cruises, and more. These well-organized tours have durations ranging from 2 to 24 hours, ensuring suitability for all time constraints.

Starting at QAR 36 per person, the packages offer great value for money. Travelers can conveniently book Discover Qatar tours upon arrival at the duty-free section of Hamad International Airport, subject to availability.

FAQS:

 What is the Validity of the Qatar Transit Visa?

The Qatar Transit Visa is valid for a stay of up to 96 hours (4 days) in Qatar. This allows passengers who have a layover in Qatar to explore the country or rest before their onward journey. 

2. What Does a Qatar Transit Visa Cost?

The Qatar Transit Visa is usually free of charge for passengers traveling with Qatar Airways, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. It’s part of the airline’s effort to encourage travelers to explore Qatar during their stopover.

3. What if My Visa Gets Rejected Upon Arrival in Qatar?

If your visa gets rejected upon arrival in Qatar, it’s crucial to have a backup plan. The reasons for rejection can vary, including issues with documentation or not meeting the visa requirements. Typically, you would need to continue your journey on your next available flight. It’s advisable to contact your airline and the nearest Qatar embassy or consulate for assistance if this occurs.

4. Is a Transit Visa Required for Qatar Airport?

A transit visa is not required if you are staying in the transit area of the airport for less than 24 hours and do not plan to leave the airport. However, if you have a layover longer than 24 hours or wish to leave the airport during your layover, you will need a transit visa.

5. What is Qatar Transit Visa?

The Qatar Transit Visa allows passengers with layovers in Qatar to enter the country and stay for up to 96 hours (4 days). It is designed to facilitate travelers who want to explore Qatar during their stopover. This visa is especially beneficial for those flying with Qatar Airways, as the airline offers this visa free of charge to its passengers under specific conditions.

7. Can I Apply for a Qatar Transit Visa Online?

Yes, you can apply for a Qatar Transit Visa online. For passengers traveling with Qatar Airways, the application can be completed through the airline’s website. It is recommended to apply at least 7 days before your travel date but not earlier than 30 days before the journey. The process is straightforward and can be completed as part of your flight booking or separately.

Conclusion

We trust that this comprehensive manual provides a clear understanding of Qatar’s intricate transit visa regulations. Given all factors such as nationality, airline, and destination, it is crucial to verify the requirements well in advance for your particular journey.

For a personal experience, you can conveniently apply online. Alternatively, you may contact the airline responsible for your connection to inquire about the availability of visas on arrival in Doha based on your passport.