Qatar Business Visa: Comprehensive Guide 2025
If you’re planning to visit Qatar for business purposes, this guide will help you understand everything about the Qatar Business Visa in 2025. From visa types and eligibility to fees and application steps, here’s what you need to know.
What is a Qatar Business Visa?
A Qatar Business Visa allows foreign nationals to visit Qatar for short-term business activities such as meetings, conferences, and project discussions. Unlike a work visa, this does not require sponsorship from a Qatari employer and is ideal for professionals visiting temporarily.
Who Can Apply for a Qatar Business Visa?
To be eligible, you need:
- A valid passport (minimum six months validity)
- An invitation letter from a Qatari company
- Proof of funds for your stay
- Accommodation and return flight bookings
Types of Qatar Business Visas
There are three types of Qatar business visas.
- 72-Hour Business Visa.
- Business Visa for Expatriate Workers
72-Hour Business Visa:
This visa is designed for foreign investors and business owners making short-term business trips to Qatar. It is issued on arrival and is valid for 72 hours. Visa holders have the option to extend the visa for an additional 72 hours. Applicants must present documents clearly outlining the purpose of the business trip.
The 72-Hour Business Visa is
- For short visits like meetings
- Available on arrival at Hamad International Airport
- Can be extended once for another 72 hours
- Fee: QR 50
Business Visa for Expatriate Workers
Foreign expatriate workers who are engaged in short-term contractual work in Qatar are eligible for this visa. It is valid for up to three months. The applicant must liaise with a Qatar-based company or institution to process and obtain the visa in advance.
Visa Waiver Categories
- Visa Waiver with 180-Day Validity
- Visa Waiver with 30-Day Validity
Visa Waiver with 180-Day Validity
Nationals from selected countries are eligible for a visa waiver valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. This waiver allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit, for single or multiple entries within that period. Countries eligible under this category include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Turkey, Malaysia, and others.
Special Note for Armenian Nationals:
Armenian citizens are also eligible for visa-free entry and can stay up to 90 days in Qatar during a single or multiple visits. They must hold a passport with at least six months’ validity and a confirmed return ticket to qualify for the visa waiver.
Visa Waiver with 30-Day Validity
This category allows nationals from specified countries to stay in Qatar for up to 30 days, with the option to extend the stay for another 30 days. The waiver is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Eligible countries include the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, India, China, Australia, and many more.
Special Note for Pakistani Nationals:
Pakistani citizens are eligible for visa-free entry for 30 days, extendable by another 30 days. They must present a valid passport (minimum six months validity), a confirmed return ticket, proof of accommodation for the stay, a certificate of vaccination against polio, and a valid credit card.
The Qatari government grants permission to enter the country through the various types of Qatar Visas. Foreign investors must submit several travel documents for verification to the Ministry of Interior’s Department of Passports and Expatriates Affairs.
NOTE: To ensure a smooth travel experience, applicants of the Qatar Business Visa can use the Qatar Visa Check to monitor their visa status and verify approval before entering the country.
Visa Extensions and Fees
- 72-Hour Visa: Extend once for QR 50
- 30 or 90-Day Visa: QR 200/month for extension
Processing Time:
- Standard: Around 2 weeks
- Fast-track: 5 to 6 days
Application Processes to apply for Qatar Business Visa
- Online through Hayya Platform.
- Using Hukumi portal.
- Using Qatari embassy.
- Authorized visa agencies and companies.
Applying for a Qatar Business Visa Online
Guide to Apply for a Qatar Business Visa Online via the Hayya Platform
To apply for a Qatar business visa, applicants must use the Hayya platform, which provides an online e-visa application process for various visa types, including business visas. The platform can be accessed either through the official Hayya website or via the mobile app, “Hayya to Qatar.”
1-Register on Hayya
- Visit the Hayya website or open the “Hayya to Qatar” app.
- Create a personal account using your email and mobile number.
2- Select Visa Type
Choose the relevant business visa category that matches the purpose of your visit.
3- Upload Documents
- Prepare and upload all necessary supporting documents, such as:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- A recent passport-sized photo
- Business invitation letter (if applicable)
- Proof of accommodation or company sponsorship details
4- Pay Visa Fees
Use the platform’s online payment system to pay the applicable visa fee.
5- Submit the Application
Review your information and submit the visa application through the Hayya platform.
6- Receive Visa Approval
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a digital visa confirmation via the Hayya platform or app.
Using the Hayya platform ensures a streamlined and paperless visa application process, making it efficient and accessible for business travelers heading to Qatar.
Apply Through Hukoomi Portal
You can also apply on Hukoomi by following similar steps.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Invitation letter
- Accommodation details
- Return flight ticket
- Financial proof
Applying for a Qatar Business Visa offline
You may also apply directly through:
- Qatari embassies.
- Authorized visa agencies and companies.
Documents Needed:
- Completed application form.
- Passport and photos.
- Invitation letter.
- Proof of stay and return ticket.
- Financial documents.
Qatar Business Visa Application Overview
Foreign nationals from countries included in Qatar’s Travel Agreements are eligible for visa-free entry. These individuals are not required to arrange a visa in advance and are granted a visa waiver upon arrival in Qatar.
All foreign visitors must carry a passport valid for at least six months and a confirmed return ticket to be eligible for visa-free entry or to obtain a visa waiver on arrival.
When a Visa is Required
Travellers visiting Qatar for purposes such as business, employment, family visits, or tourism, and who are not eligible for visa-free entry, must apply for a suitable visa before arrival. The type of visa required will depend on the nature and duration of the visit.
Getting a 72-Hour Business Visa on Arrival
Requirements:
- Passport with 6 months validity
- Invitation letter for business
- Hotel reservation
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of funds (credit card or cash)
Fee: QR 50 (extendable once for 72 hours)
Business Visa Costs
- 72-Hour Visa: QR 50
- 30-Day Visa: QR 200
- 90-Day Visa: QR 600
Overstay Fine: QR 200 per day
Why Choose a Business Visa?
- Easier and quicker than a work visa
- No need for job sponsorship
- Great for short business trips
- Allows legal business activities in Qatar
