Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistani Citizens – Complete Guide (2025)
Qatar has become a popular travel destination for Pakistanis in recent years, thanks to its blend of traditional culture, modern lifestyle, and growing job opportunities. If you’re planning to visit Qatar from Pakistan in 2025, there’s great news: Pakistani passport holders are eligible for a visa on arrival meaning you don’t need to apply in advance.
However, certain conditions must be fulfilled to benefit from this facility of Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistani Citizens. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Qatar visa on arrival process for Pakistanis in simple terms.
What is a Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
A visa on arrival means that you don’t need to get your visa before your trip. Instead, when you land at Doha’s Hamad International Airport, you can receive your visa right there at the immigration counter. This makes traveling easier and quicker. The purpose behind this policy is to promote tourism and strengthen relations with friendly countries, including Pakistan.
Can Pakistanis Get a Qatar Visa on Arrival in 2025?
Yes, Pakistani citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival in Qatar in 2025. But it is not automatic to get Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistan, you need to meet some specific conditions. If you fail to meet these requirements, you may not be allowed entry. So, it’s very important to prepare properly before you travel.
The Qatar visa validity must be checked timely to avoid any inconvenience. The process of Qatar Visa check can easily be done using the official website.
What Are the Requirements to Get a Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistanis?
There are several important requirements that you must fulfill to get a Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistanis:
First, your Pakistani passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive in Qatar. You also need a confirmed return ticket or proof that you will leave Qatar within the allowed stay period.
If you are staying at a hotel, you must show a confirmed hotel booking. If you are staying with a friend or relative, you will need an invitation letter from them and a copy of their Qatar ID (QID).
Another important requirement is a valid Polio Vaccination Certificate issued by an approved health center in Pakistan. This is mandatory due to Qatar’s health and safety regulations.
You must also show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. A bank statement, credit card, or debit card will usually be enough. Finally, since 2023, Qatar requires all travelers to have valid travel health insurance, which you must purchase before departure.
Eligibility Criteria
Pakistani citizens can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival in Qatar, which can be extended once for an additional 30 days. However, certain prerequisites must be met:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Return or Onward Ticket: A confirmed return ticket or onward travel ticket is mandatory.
- Hotel Reservation: You must have a confirmed hotel booking through the Discover Qatar platform. This is a mandatory requirement for Pakistani nationals.
- Polio Vaccination Certificate: A valid polio vaccination certificate issued by an authorized center in Pakistan is required.
- Travel Health Insurance: It’s recommended to have valid travel health insurance covering your stay in Qatar.
- Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay, such as bank statements or credit/debit cards, may be requested.
NOTE: Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistan is a type of Qatar tourist visa that allows eligible Pakistani citizens to enter Qatar without applying in advance.
Visa Duration and Cost of Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistani Citizens
The visa on arrival for Pakistani citizens is valid for 30 days. If needed, it can be extended one time for another 30 days, giving you a total of 60 days in Qatar.
Most of the time, the visa is issued free of cost. However, if you choose to extend the visa or if there are policy updates, you may be asked to pay a small fee around QAR 100.
To avoid any surprises, always check the official Qatar Visa Portal or consult the nearest Qatari embassy before you book your flight.
Visa Fees
- Visa Fee: The visa on arrival is free of charge for Pakistani citizens. Wikipedia
- Extension Fee: If you choose to extend your stay beyond the initial 30 days, a fee of QAR 100 applies.
How can Pakistanis Get the Visa on Arrival at the Airport?
When you land at Hamad International Airport in Doha, go to the “Visa on Arrival” counter. The officer will ask you for your passport, return ticket, hotel booking, polio certificate, and other supporting documents.
They will review your documents to confirm that you meet all the conditions. If everything is in order, they will issue the visa and stamp it into your passport.
Application Process at Hamad International Airport
Upon arrival at Doha’s Hamad International Airport:
- Proceed to the Visa on Arrival Counter: Follow the signs to the designated VOA counters.
- Present Required Documents: Submit your passport, return/onward ticket, hotel reservation confirmation from Discover Qatar, polio vaccination certificate, proof of funds, and travel health insurance.
- Verification: The immigration officer will verify your documents and eligibility.
- Visa Issuance: If approved, your passport will be stamped with the visa, allowing you entry into Qatar.
Qatar Entry Tips for Visa on Arrival
To make your arrival in Qatar stress-free, make sure your passport is machine-readable and in good condition. Carry both digital and printed copies of your hotel reservation and return ticket. If your polio certificate is in Urdu, it’s a good idea to carry an English-translated version as well. Also, have access to your bank account or credit/debit card just in case you are asked to show proof of funds.
Important Tips
- Document Copies: Carry both digital and printed copies of all essential documents.
- Hotel Booking: Ensure your hotel booking is made through the Discover Qatar platform, as bookings from other platforms may not be accepted for VOA eligibility.
- Health Precautions: Keep your polio vaccination certificate readily accessible, as it’s a mandatory requirement.
- Financial Proof: Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Visa Restrictions and Work Prohibition Reasons: Who May Be Denied a Visa?
Not everyone is guaranteed a visa on arrival. You may be refused entry if you don’t meet the eligibility criteria, if you have a criminal record, or if your travel intentions are unclear. Always be honest and clear with the immigration officer about why you are visiting Qatar.
- Work Prohibition: The visa on arrival is strictly for tourism or short business visits. Engaging in employment activities is not permitted under this visa.
- Alternative Visas for Work: If you intend to work in Qatar, you must apply for a Work Visa or Freelance Visa prior to your arrival.
Can You Work on This Visa?
No. The visa on arrival is meant only for tourism or short business visits. You cannot work in Qatar on this visa. If you want to work there, you must apply for a proper Work Visa or Freelance Visa before traveling.
Final Words
The Qatar visa on arrival is a convenient option for Pakistani citizens who want to visit this beautiful Gulf country without the hassle of applying beforehand. Just make sure you prepare the required documents and follow the rules, and your entry should be smooth and trouble-free.
To stay updated about the Qatar Visa on Arrival for Pakistanis, always check the official Qatar immigration website or contact the nearest Qatari embassy before your trip.
