Your Complete Guide to the Qatar Hayya Card and Visit Visas (2026)

Welcome to Doha! If you are planning a trip to the State of Qatar in 2026, understanding the entry requirements is your first crucial step. The State of Qatar has transitioned heavily into digital entry management, moving away from traditional visa queues. Here is everything you need to know about the Hayya Card, the types of entry permits available, and how to successfully apply. What is the Hayya Platform? Originally created to manage fans during the FIFA World Cup 2022, the "Hayya" system is now the official e-platform that streamlines the tourist visa application process for international visitors. Available via the Hayya portal (hayya.qa) and mobile app, it issues a digital permit directly linked to your passport, making your airport arrival much faster than processing a traditional visa on arrival. Types of Hayya Entry Permits The Hayya platform offers several single-entry visit visa types tailored to different travelers: Visa Code Visa Name Target Audience / Specific Requirements Fee A1 Tourist Visa Standard tourist visa for general visitors. Variable A2 GCC Resident Visa For expatriate residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Variable A3 Visa with ETA Requires valid visa or residency for the US, UK, Canada, Schengen, Australia, or New Zealand. QAR 100 A4 Companion of GCC Citizen For companions traveling with a GCC citizen. The companion must travel with the sponsor and cannot enter Qatar alone. QAR 100 F1 Visa-Free for US Citizens Exclusive to US citizens, allowing stays up to 90 days. QAR 76 Mandatory Entry Requirements Regardless of the Hayya visa type you choose, the State of Qatar enforces strict baseline requirements for entry: Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from your intended date of arrival in Qatar. Proof of Accommodation: You must have a confirmed hotel booking or be formally hosted by family and friends. (Note: GCC companions on an A4 visa do not require separate accommodation proof). Return Ticket: A confirmed return flight ticket (or ticket to continue your journey) is mandatory. Health Insurance: A valid health insurance policy issued by an insurance company registered with the Ministry of Public Health is required for entry. Vehicle Insurance: Visitors driving to Qatar via the Abu Samra border must complete the required electronic vehicle insurance policies. The Application Process Applying for a Hayya E-Visa is a straightforward, digital process that takes about 5-6 minutes to complete. It involves several stages: Form Sections: You must complete sections for Personal Information (uploading passport/photo), Accommodation Information (host or hotel details), and Residency Information (visa/residency copies). Pending Status: After applying, your status will show as "Pending" while authorities process it. Accommodation Verification: Once initially approved, the status changes to “Pending Accommodation Verification,” where you must upload your hotel voucher or verify your host. Payment: Next, the application moves to "Pending Payment" (if an e-visa fee applies). Final Approval: Once paid, your application is fully approved. A Single-Entry E-Visa will be emailed to you, which is strictly required to board your flight and enter Qatar. A Note on Visas on Arrival While the Hayya platform is highly recommended, Qatar still welcomes citizens from over 95 countries with a visa on arrival at the country's entry points. However, the Ministry of Interior currently mandates that travelers with passports from India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran must book their accommodation exclusively through "Discover Qatar" to qualify for a Visa on Arrival. All rules regarding on-arrival visas are subject to change without notice.