Applying for a Qatar eVisa is a fully online process managed through the official Hayya portal. The entire application takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and processing usually completes within 1 to 3 business days. This guide walks you through every step so you can submit a successful application on your first attempt.
Before You Start: What You Need
Gather these items before opening the application form:
- A valid passport with at least 3 months of remaining validity from your arrival date in Qatar
- A digital passport-sized photograph (6×6 cm, color, white background, minimum 600×600 pixels)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking confirmation or host invitation letter)
- A confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- A valid email address for receiving your approved visa
- A credit or debit card for paying the visa fee
All documents must be in JPEG or PDF format and should not exceed 1 MB per file.
Step 1: Create a Hayya Account
Navigate to hayya.qa and click on the registration button. You will need to provide:
- Your full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Email address
- Password
- Mobile phone number
After submitting the registration form, check your email for a verification link. Click the link to activate your account. You can also download the Hayya mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store and register there.
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Once logged in, choose the appropriate visa category:
- Tourist Visa (A1): For leisure travel with a stay of up to 30 days
- Transit Visa: For layovers of up to 4 days (96 hours) at Hamad International Airport
Most travelers will need the A1 Tourist Visa. If you are only passing through Qatar on a connecting flight and want to leave the airport, select the Transit Visa.
Step 3: Fill in Personal Information
The form will ask for:
- Full name (first, middle, last) matching your passport
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Passport issue and expiry dates
- Gender
- Country of residence
- Occupation
Enter every detail exactly as shown on your passport. Even minor discrepancies between your application and passport can cause delays or rejection.
Step 4: Provide Travel Details
Next, enter your trip information:
- Planned date of arrival in Qatar
- Planned date of departure
- Flight number (if known)
- Accommodation address and booking confirmation
- Purpose of visit
For accommodation, you need either a hotel booking confirmation or details of your host in Qatar. Citizens of India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran are required to book accommodation through Discover Qatar specifically.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload the following files:
Passport scan: A clear, color scan of the bio-data page of your passport
Photograph: A recent passport-style photo meeting the specifications (6×6 cm, white background, 600×600 pixels minimum)
Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation or host invitation
Flight ticket: Return or onward journey confirmation
Ensure all files are in JPEG or PDF format and under 1 MB each. Blurry or incomplete uploads are a common reason for application delays.
Step 6: Review Your Application
Before submitting, review every field carefully. Check that:
- Your name matches your passport exactly
- Passport number has no typos
- Dates are in the correct format
- All uploaded documents are legible
- Contact information is accurate
You cannot edit your application after submission without starting a new one.
Step 7: Pay the Visa Fee
The Qatar eVisa fee is QAR 100 (approximately USD 27). Payment is made online through the Hayya portal using:
- Credit card (Visa, Mastercard)
- Debit card
The fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your application reference number.
After Submission: What to Expect
Once submitted, your application goes through the following stages:
Pending: Your application has been received and is in the queue for review
Pending Accommodation Verification: Authorities are verifying your accommodation details
Pending Payment: Additional payment may be required (this step appears for some nationalities)
Approved: Your visa has been granted
Rejected: Your application was denied
You will receive email notifications at each stage. You can also check your status at any time by logging into your Hayya account.
How Long Does Processing Take?
Standard processing takes 1 to 3 business days. However, it is recommended to apply at least 5 business days before your planned travel date to account for any unexpected delays or requests for additional documents.
During peak travel periods (Eid holidays, FIFA events, major conferences), processing may take longer. Plan accordingly.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
Understanding why applications get rejected can help you avoid mistakes:
- Passport validity less than 3 months from arrival date
- Blurry or unreadable document uploads
- Mismatch between application details and passport information
- Missing accommodation proof
- Incomplete application form
- Applying under the wrong visa category
- Previous immigration violations in Qatar
If your application is rejected, you can reapply with corrected information. The fee from the rejected application is not refunded.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply at least 5 business days before your trip
- Use a scanner rather than a phone camera for passport copies
- Ensure your photo meets the exact specifications
- Double-check your passport number and dates
- Keep your booking confirmation accessible
- Save your application reference number
- Check your email spam folder for notifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for someone else?
Yes, you can submit an application on behalf of another person. You will need all of their documents and information. Each application requires its own Hayya account or can be submitted under a family/group application.
What if I make a mistake on my application?
If you notice an error after submission, you may need to submit a new application. Contact Hayya support at [email protected] or call 2022 (Qatar) or +974 4441 2022 (international) for assistance.
Can I extend my eVisa while in Qatar?
Tourist e-Visas (A1) allow a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions may be possible through the Ministry of Interior. Transit visas cannot be extended beyond 4 days.
Do I need to book a specific hotel?
For most nationalities, any valid hotel booking is acceptable. However, citizens of India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran must book through Discover Qatar as a mandatory requirement.
