Visiting Qatar is a great way to experience Arabian culture and see some of the unique attractions in the region. If you want to visit with your family, though, you’ll need to get a family visit visa. Here’s what you need to know about getting one.
If you’re considering traveling to Qatar with your family, be aware that a family visit visa is required for all non-Qatari nationals unless they are refugees or holders of special permits. In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about getting a Qatari family visit visa – from eligibility requirements to the application process and fees involved. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is Qatar Family Visit Visa?
A Qatar family visit visa is an official document issued by the government of Qatar which grants non-Qatari nationals permission to enter and stay in the country with their family members. This visa allows holders to stay in Qatar for up to three months and can be renewed if needed.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Age Limit
- All family members must be 18 years old to obtain a Qatar family visit visa.
- Additionally, minors traveling with their families must have written and signed consent from both parents or legal guardians.
Criteria for Qatar Family Visit Visa
To be eligible for the Qatar family visit visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be over 18 years old
- Have a valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Have proof of a round-trip flight reservation or tickets (required for all travelers, including minors)
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Qatar
- Have a valid credit or debit card for payment of the visa fee
Getting a Qatar family visit visa
The application process for the Qatar family visit visa is quite simple.
- Applicants must first fill out an online application form, which is accessible on the official website of the Qatar government.
- Applicants must submit copies of their valid passports and other supporting documents such as flight reservations, proof of funds, and proof of legal guardianship for minors.
- Application submitters will receive a confirmation email with their application status.
- If the application is approved, they will receive a visa approval letter, which should be presented upon arrival at the Qatar airport immigration office.
Qatar family visit visa fees
There is a one-time fee of QAR200 (approximately US$45). This fee can be paid using a credit/debit card when submitting the visa application or upon arrival at the Qatar airport immigration office.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Pay Requirements
In addition to providing proof of travel insurance, applicants for the Qatar family visit visa must also provide proof of sufficient income. The salary requirement for Qatar family visit visas varies depending on the family size but must be at least QAR10,000 (approximately US$2,735) per month.
Family Visit Visa Validity
The Qatar family visit visa is valid for up to three months from the date of issue. However, the visa can be extended if needed by submitting a request to the Qatar immigration authorities.
Checklist for Qatar Family Visit Visa
In addition to the documents listed above, applicants for the Qatar family visit visa must also provide a range of other documents, such as:
- Copy of valid passport
- Copy of proof of sufficient funds
- Copy of flight reservation or tickets
- Proof of legal guardianship for minors (if applicable)
- Proof of valid travel insurance
Wife and children:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificates of the children
- Copy of the husband’s passport or ID card.
Once the documents are submitted, applicants will receive a confirmation email with their application status.
Note: It is important to note that the Qatar family visit visa application process can take up to two weeks and should be started as soon as possible.
Relatives applying for visit visas:
The Qatar family visit visa application process for other family members, such as aunts, uncles, and cousins, is slightly different.
- Copy of the relationship certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of permission from a parent or legal guardian (if applicable).
How to apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa online and offline
The Qatar family visit visa applicants can apply online or at their local Qatar embassy. The online application process is much simpler and faster and requires applicants to fill out an online form, upload a scan of their passports, and provide the required documents.
How to Apply for Qatar Family Visit Visa Online
To apply for the Qatar family visit visa online, applicants should follow these steps:
Step 1: Log in to the Metrash2 app
Step 2: Select the “Visa” icon
Step 3: Navigate to the “Issue Visa” section
Step 4: Choose “Family Visit” from the. menu
Step 5: Select “Family Visa Application”
Step 6: Go to “New Application”
Step 7: Enter the visitor’s details
Step 8: Then click “Validate”
Step 9: Scan or upload the required documents or photos
Qatar ID should upload with both front and back pages on the same side, just like passports.
You might have to show a birth certificate to prove your relationship. The birth certificate can be one of many proofs of the relationship
In a few days, you’ll get an update.
Please don’t worry if you have missing or mismatched documents! You’ll be notified and can make all the necessary changes. You can pay the fee after the application is approved and verified.
Step 10: Online visa fees are due after visa approval
How to apply for Qatar Family Visit Visa Offline
Applicants who choose not to apply for the Qatar family visit visa online can also submit their application at the nearest Qatar embassy. In this case, applicants must fill out a physical application form (Download Link) and submit it with the required documents. Depending on the embassy, applicants may need to make an appointment to apply for the visa. You must ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months before applying for a Qatar family visit visa.
You might also need the following documents:
- Passport, QID, and Letter from Employer if verification is needed
- You’ll need a copy of your lease or Kahramaa bill to prove where the visitor will be staying in Qatar.
- You’ll need a marriage certificate to prove the relationship between you and your spouse.
Application Process
- Go to any MoI service center with these documents.
- After that, you’ll get a token number at Reception.
- You can go to the counter once your number is on the screen.
- Then they’ll tell you to meet the Captain for final approval.
- The Captain then approves your application.
- Once accepted, you’ll get a receipt, which you’ll have to check after a few days.
- Follow the link on the receipt to check the status online after 2 days.
- Metrahs2 users will get a notification when the status changes.
- Using Metrash2, you can pay the visa fees online or directly at the MoI Service Center.
How To Extend Family Visit Visa
1. Documents required
To apply for a Qatar family visa extension, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Your passport, with at least 6 months of validity remaining
- A copy of your residency permit
- A copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable)
- A copy of your child’s birth certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of employment in Qatar (e.g., a letter from your employer)
- Proof of income (e.g., bank statements or payslips)
- A completed application form
2. Document submission
Once you have gathered the required documents, you will need to submit them to the relevant authorities in Qatar. The specific process and requirements will vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. However, you must submit your application and supporting documents online or at a Qatar embassy or consulate.
3. Pay the application fee
Qatar family visa extensions typically come with a non-refundable application fee. Before processing your application, you must pay this fee. The specific amount will vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.
4. Await a decision
Once you have submitted your application, it can take several weeks or even months to receive a decision from the relevant authorities in Qatar. During this time, it is important to remain patient and not contact the authorities regarding the status of your application, as this may delay the process further. Once a decision has been made, you will receive an email or post.
If your application is approved, collect your visa from the relevant authorities in Qatar. Suppose your application for a Qatar family visa extension is approved. In that case, you will need to collect your visa from the relevant authorities in Qatar within 30 days of receiving notification that your application has been approved. When collecting your visa, you must bring your passport and any other required documents.
Family Visit Visa Fees
A Qatar family visit visa fees depend on the applicant’s nationality. For example, US citizens currently pay a fee of QR200 (approximately $55) for a family visit visa. These fees are non-refundable and must be paid before processing the application. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, so it is important to check with the relevant authorities in Qatar for the most up-to-date information.
Qatar family visit visa rejection
If your Qatar family visit visa application is rejected in 2023, you will receive a notification within 30 days of submitting your application. You will only get your money back if your application is accepted, so submit all the right documents and fill out the form correctly. Contact Qatari authorities for more info.
The rejection will also provide information on why your application has been denied and what steps you can take to resolve the issue. Qatar family visit visa appeals can be made in some cases, but it is important to note that the decision of the relevant authorities in Qatar is final.
How to Check Qatar family visit visa status
On the Moi website, you can track your Qatar family visit visa under Inquiries >> Visa Services >> Visa Approval Tracking. You can check your Qatar visa status by accurately filling in all the details.
Tips for a successful Qatar Family visit visa application
Fill out the whole application
When applying for a Qatar Family visit visa, you must complete the application in full. It is necessary to fill out all required fields, and supporting documents must be attached. Only complete applications will be accepted.
Provide all documentation
You must include several supporting documents to complete your Qatar Family visit visa application. These include a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and proof of travel insurance. You will also need to provide proof of your relationship with the family member you are visiting and evidence of their status in Qatar.
Pay the application fee
There is a non-refundable application fee for the Qatar Family visit visa. Payment of this fee is due in full at the time of application.
Apply in person
You must submit the Qatar Family Visit application to the nearest Qatar Embassy or Consulate.
Wait for processing
Once your Qatar Family visit visa application has been submitted, it will take approximately two weeks to process. During this time, you will not be able to contact the Embassy or Consulate regarding the status of your application.
FAQs
How can I apply for a family visit visa in Qatar via Metrash?
You can apply for a family visit visa in Qatar via Metrash by registering an account and completing the necessary application forms. You must submit the required documents and pay the applicable visa fee.
Do I need a hotel reservation for my family visit visa application in Qatar?
Yes, you will need to provide a confirmed hotel reservation for your stay in Qatar.
Can I convert my family visit visa to a residence visa in Qatar?
Yes, converting a family visit visa into a residence visa in Qatar is possible. You must apply for a residence visa and submit the required documents.
How much does a Qatar family visit visa cost?
The cost of a Qatar family visit visa varies depending on the applicant’s nationality. However, the current fee is QR 200(approximately US $55).
What documents are needed for a Qatar family visit visa?
When applying for a Qatar family visit visa, you must provide a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, proof of travel insurance, and evidence of your relationship with the family member you are visiting. You will also need to provide proof of their status in Qatar.
How long does it take to process a Qatar family visit visa?
A Qatar family visit visa typically takes two weeks to process. It is impossible to contact the Embassy or Consulate regarding the status of your application during this time.
Can the holder of a family visit visa work in Qatar?
No, a family visit visa holder is not permitted to work in Qatar. The holder may stay in Qatar for up to 90 days and is not allowed to stay longer than this. The holder must also leave Qatar before the expiration of their visa.
Conclusion
Applying for a Qatar family visit visa requires careful preparation, including submitting all the necessary documents and paying the applicable fee. The visa process typically takes two weeks to complete. During this time, the applicant will not be able to contact the Embassy or Consulate regarding the status of their application, and the holder of the visa is not permitted to work in Qatar. Visitors need to comply with all Qatar regulations during their stay.