Arrivals
Using E-gate
Please proceed directly to the e-gate area. This is located towards your right-hand side as you approach the passport control area.
Visa on arrival
- For detailed information regarding entry visas, please see these pages: link 1, link 2
- If your passport is from one of the countries on this list then you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. This is valid for a one-month stay in Qatar. Please approach an immigration counter, present your passport and pay your visa fee.
- If you’re a resident of a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council) then you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. The visa will only be issued if your residence permit is valid for at least six months.Please approach an immigration counter, present your passport and pay your visa fee. Your visa will be valid for a one-month stay in Qatar and it can be renewed for a further two months.
Paying your visa fee
- The easiest way to pay your visa fee is with your credit card or debit card,directly at an immigration counter. The visa fee depends on your nationality and type of visa.
- If you’d like to pay your visa fee with cash, then you need to visit the designated bank counter (map) before you approach a passport control counter. The bank will charge a fee (QAR 25/USD 7) for processing your cash payment. All major currencies are accepted.
Getting a visa before you travel
If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival (please see eligibility criteria above), then you need to arrange a visa before you travel to Qatar. This can be done at Qatari embassies around the world, or by enquiring with a hotel you have a booking within Qatar. The visa fee depends on your nationality and type of visa (click here for more details on visa fees). Please ensure you plan enough time for the visa to be processed.
If you’re flying with Qatar Airways, then you may be able to arrange a visa on arrival by booking a hotel stay for the duration of your visit. Please visit the Qatar Airways Holidays website for more information and assistance. Please note that the normal visa processing time is about two weeks, while the fast-track service takes about five to six days.
Hayya e-visa platform
Qatar’s Hayya platform allows an easy entry to the State of Qatar through an e-visa.You can get your e-visa in 4 easy steps:
- Register on the Hayya platform website - www.hayya.qa orvia the Hayya app.
- Upload the required documents
- Pay the visa fee & submit
- Receive your Hayya permit approval
Visit www.visitqatar.com/visa to learn more on how to get an e-visa with Hayya and download thecomprehensive guide.
Priority processing
All Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing on arrival at Hamad International Airport.
Things to avoid
- Please don’t approach a passport control counter if you’d like to pay your visa fee in cash. The passport control counters can only accept credit cards and debit cards. Please use the designated bank counter for cash payment (map).
- Please don’t commence your journey before confirming visa requirements. This will help minimise any inconvenience or delays during travel.
Departures
Important information for passengers departing from Hamad International Airport.
Exit permits
- To find out if you need an exit permit, please visit the Hukoomi website
- If members of your family are visiting you in Qatar, then any male visitors whose stay in Qatar exceeds one month are required to obtain an exit permit when exiting the country (female family members are exempt).
Clearing passport control
- Scan your boarding card at the automated security gates just before the passport control area.
- Keep your travel documents (passport, exit permit, boarding pass and ticket) ready to present to the immigration officer.
- Dedicated lanes are available for First Class and Business Class passengers.
Priority processing
All Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing when departing from Hamad International Airport.
Things to avoid
- If you’re travelling to a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council), then your passport must be valid for at least six months (three months for GCC citizens). Please make sure your passport meets this requirement, otherwise, your airline won’t be able to accept you for travel.
- If you have any unpaid fines in Qatar, then you won’t be allowed to leave the country. Please make sure any unpaid fines are settled before you travel. You can also pay your fines at the Ministry of Interior office at Hamad International Airport (map).
Solving problems
- If you’re not allowed to leave the country because of unpaid fines, you can pay them at the Ministry of Interior fees and fines office at Hamad International Airport. It is located at the end of check-in Row 8 (map).
- If you’re not allowed to leave the country because you don’t have an exit permit, please approach the Ministry of Interior office at Hamad International Airport.
As an expert in travel and immigration procedures, I have comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience regarding entry and exit requirements for various countries, including Qatar. Demonstrating an in-depth understanding of these processes involves a familiarity with visa regulations, passport control procedures, and the nuances of airport operations.
Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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E-Gate Arrivals: This refers to a specific area within the airport designated for travelers eligible to use electronic gates for faster entry through passport control. It's usually located adjacent to the traditional immigration counters and facilitates quicker processing for eligible passengers.
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Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities qualify for a visa upon arrival in Qatar. This visa typically allows a specific duration of stay, usually for tourism or business purposes. Eligibility criteria, such as nationality and GCC residency, determine who qualifies for this visa.
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Visa Fees and Payment: Visa fees vary based on nationality and the type of visa required. Payment can be made using credit/debit cards at immigration counters or in cash at designated bank counters, which may charge an additional processing fee.
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Pre-Travel Visa Arrangements: Individuals ineligible for visa on arrival must obtain a visa before traveling to Qatar. This can be done through Qatari embassies, hotels, or specific arrangements like Qatar Airways' services, with varying processing times and fees.
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Hayya E-Visa Platform: Qatar's online platform facilitating the issuance of e-visas for entry into the country. It involves a simple registration process, document upload, fee payment, and approval issuance, all accessible through the Hayya website or app.
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Priority Processing: Certain categories of travelers, such as Al Maha customers, special assistance travelers, and unaccompanied minors, receive expedited processing at Hamad International Airport during both arrivals and departures.
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Departure Procedures: Instructions and requirements for departing passengers, including checking for exit permits, using dedicated lanes, and adhering to specific passport validity rules, especially when traveling to GCC countries.
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Exit Permits and Unpaid Fines: Requirements for exit permits, particularly for male visitors staying longer than a month, and the need to clear any outstanding fines before departing from Qatar. Failure to settle fines may result in travel restrictions.
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Problem-Solving at the Airport: Instructions on where to address specific issues, such as unpaid fines or lack of an exit permit, at the Ministry of Interior office located within Hamad International Airport.
Understanding these concepts ensures a smooth travel experience through Qatar's airports and compliance with its immigration and visa regulations, catering to various traveler categories and their specific needs and requirements.
