Qatar Visa for Indians

The State of Qatar's visa policy is quite lax, particularly when compared to other Middle Eastern nations. Citizens of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE have the liberty of movement to Qatar, eliminating the need for a visa. There are 80 other countries whose citizens can also enter the State of Qatar without a visa, and India falls under this category.

Qatar on-arrival visa for Indian nationals can be obtained by providing a valid Indian passport with at least a validity of 6 months as well as a confirmed two-way flight ticket. As a result, the citizens of India are not required to get a Qatar visa prior to travelling to the State of Qatar. However, a Qatar visa for Indians comes with a validity period of 30 days, with the possibility of extending it for a further 30 days if necessary.

Note: The Government of Qatar has established new travel restrictions for some nationals who wish to visit the State of Qatar. Qatar's government has classified nations into two groups: GREEN list nations and RED list nations. So, what does this imply for Indians? Because India is now on the red list of nations, you'll need to spend a day in a hotel quarantine if you visit.

This alters a few aspects of your Qatar visa requirements. Before travelling, you'll need to submit a few extra papers and application forms. You'll get to know all of these in the "Documents Required for Qatar Visa" section. Read on to learn more about the same.

There are numerous Qatar visa types for Indian nationals depending on various factors. They are primarily classified according to the reason for the visit, the duration of stay, and other criteria. The following are the most prevalent forms of permits:

• Qatar Tourist Visa: A Qatar tourist visa for Indian nationals is granted when a person intends to visit the nation for tourism purposes. This particular visa is not required for a 30-day visit; however, it should be obtained if you want to remain for more than 30 days in the State of Qatar.

• Qatar Friends and Family Visa: This particular visa is necessary if you are planning to visit friends and family in the nation. You will need an invitation from the individual you're visiting in the State of Qatar to procure this permit. Because the validity terms are very similar to the Qatar tourist permit, a permit isn't necessary for a 30-day visit. It's only required if you want to remain for more than 30 days.

• Qatar Business Visa: A business visa is required when a businessperson travels to Qatar to conduct business-related operations or make business deals. The duration of your business permit is determined by the purpose of your stay. It can also be regarded as a form of multiple entrance permit.

• Qatar Transit Visa: A Qatar transit visa is acquired from the Qatar Embassy when the tourist or traveller is scheduled to transit in the State of Qatar before flying to another port. It's often provided for hours, based on the duration of the trip.

Citizens of India are lucky to receive a Qatar visa on arrival for 30 days from the Government of Qatar. Nevertheless, they must still complete all of the conditions and have all of the necessary documentation. It is critical that you complete all of the required steps in the procedure before embarking on your vacation. You must also have the necessary papers. Otherwise, your Qatar visa on arrival may be refused, extending your visa processing time.

• Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months and has at least two blank pages.
• You should have a confirmed return flight ticket to India.
• For Indian citizens, at least $1,400 in cash or a valid debit/credit card with three months' bank statements is required, which also applies to families.
• Evidence of lodging with a hotel reservation made through the "Discover Qatar" website.
• You should be completely immunised and have all of your vaccines up to date. The Ministry of Public Health must authorise your vaccination.
• Before flying to Qatar, you should provide a negative PCR test that is no more than 48 hours old.
• Before flying to the State of Qatar, you should complete an online registration on the Ehteraz website and obtain authorisation from the Ministry of Public Health.
• Complete the Qatar acknowledgement form.
• As a precaution, you must spend a day in hotel quarantine since Indian nationals are on the Government of Qatar's RED list.

The following papers, in addition to a passport and pictures, are necessary for stated visas:

Qatar Business Visa:

• Application Form V1
• Letter from the firm outlining the aim of the business
• Permit or Residence identity

Qatar Employment Visa:

• Application Form V1
• Letter from the recruiter outlining the type and nature of your work
• The original contract of employment, as well as a photocopy
• Proof of qualifications

Qatar Student Visa:

• Application Form V1
• Permit or Residence identity
• Admission letter from a recognised university
• Certificate of salary from the local sponsor
• Your academic or educational papers

Qatar Transit Visa:

• Application Form V1
• Permit or Residence identity

Qatar Friends and Family Visa:

• Application Form V1
• Proof of friend or family's residence
• Letter of invitation from the friend or family member

The majority of the Qatar visa application procedure takes place online. Before you begin the procedure, there are a few things you should consider. The applicant must meet the qualifying criteria and provide all required documentation and other prerequisites. There are two options for getting to Qatar. You may either apply online before your travel or receive a Qatar visa on arrival. The qualifying conditions vary depending on the approach you choose. The procedures are as follows:

Before Arrival:

• Navigate to the Embassy of Qatar's official website.
• Complete the visa application form for Qatar.
• Affix scanned copies of the necessary papers based on the kind of visa type.
• Upload the papers and the visa application form online.
• Pay the required Qatar visa processing fees.
• After the process is completed, you will receive the Qatar visa via email.

On Arrival:

• Reserve a ticket for an onward as well as a return trip from the State of Qatar.
• Make a hotel reservation or provide other types of lodging.
• Bring evidence of lodging with you.
• Consult the officials after arrival to obtain a Qatar visa on arrival.
• Please provide all needed documents.
• You'll be given a Qatar visa waiver if you complete the necessary procedures.

The officer at the Immigration counter will ask you some questions regarding your stay in the State of Qatar. After your Qatar visa application's been processed, the officer will place a sticker on your passport as proof that your visa application was successful.

Now that you're done with the immigration procedure, you're now free to enjoy the gorgeous State of Qatar.

The Qatar visa price for Indian nationals is completely free of charge for every visa-eligible traveller. Extending or renewing a Qatar visa on arrival is likewise free of charge.

Since the Qatar visa is an electronic permit, it's simple to perform a Qatar visa check to know the progress of your application. To check the status, go to the website of Qatar Visa, fill out the necessary information, and monitor where the procedure has progressed. You may even find out how you have to go to the interview and how much time it will take for your visa to be completely processed.

Generally, the processing time is 8 to 10 working days, except for any Qatar holiday, and Friday and Saturday. Nonetheless, if it's pending with the Security Department, it might take a little longer.

Paying a visit to Qatar is both exhilarating and eye-opening. However, when travelling overseas, it is critical to avoid getting too caught up in the excitement of adventure and to keep travel security and safety precautions in mind.

• Before visiting Qatar, learn about the country's laws and regulations.
• Keep your passport in a secure place at all times. Make duplicates of any other vital papers.
• Follow all of Qatar's norms and regulations.
• Avoid attracting undue attention. Try to fit in and vibe with the culture.
• Respect Qatar's culture, rules, and people.
• Do not stay in Qatar after your visa has expired.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in public and crowded places.
• Avoid travelling alone in distant or unknown locations.
• Do not participate in illegal activity or break any rules.
• Use no disrespectful remarks or vulgar words, especially in public.
• Keep your friends and family informed of your location.
• Be alert, monitor your surroundings, be aware of the people around you, and trust your instincts.
• Choose the finest travel insurance in India to sufficiently cover your trip to Qatar.

Listed below are some “to-be-followed” COVID-19 safety guidelines while you are on your trip to Qatar:

• Always wear a non-surgical mask that covers your mouth and nose, especially if you're going somewhere public.
• Maintain social distancing.
• When travelling, wash your hands frequently and bring hand sanitiser.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep an eye out for COVID-19 signs. If you see any of these symptoms, separate yourself and get tested as soon as possible.
• Cooperate with local governments and authorities to assist them in keeping Qatar safe and secure in accordance with COVID-19 recommendations.

Note: If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms or need any kind of medical assistance, you may always utilise your travel coverage to obtain financial and other assistance.

When planning a vacation to Qatar, you should thoroughly investigate everything to ensure that your trip is beneficial. Mishaps, on the other hand, might happen at any time when on vacation in another country. And to get out of such circumstances, you'll need a lot of money. As a result, while Qatar travel insurance is not required, it is highly advised for anybody considering a trip to the nation in the near future.

Furthermore, given the sensitivity of health issues as a result of the current coronavirus pandemic, it's always preferable to be prepared ahead of time. This way, you can guarantee that you will return with nothing but wonderful memories!

However, while purchasing a travel insurance plan online, it is equally critical to review the various possibilities, compare them, and then select the best one. With the aid of our online travel insurance premium calculator, you can browse through the insurance policy pricing at Tata AIG's official website and then select one that is not only inexpensive but also comes with a broad range of coverage options. You should be aware that your selected travel insurance should include enough medical coverage, luggage loss coverage, trip extension/cancellation coverage, evacuation and repatriation coverage, etc.

All of the benefits stated above, as well as many more, are available with Tata AIG's travel insurance Qatar plan online. Our travel insurance products will provide you with a high level of financial security throughout your overseas journey to Qatar.

With Tata AIG's online Qatar travel insurance plan, you may take advantage of a variety of travel health insurance coverage options.

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• Medical Cover: Our travel health insurance Qatar policy is exclusively designed to offer you the necessary monetary coverage in the event of an unexpected accident or illness during your vacation that necessitates hospitalisation. The Tata AIG travel medical insurance plan for Qatar also covers COVID-19-related treatment. If you contract COVID during your trip to Qatar and require hospitalisation, Tata AIG Qatar travel insurance will cover the expenses.

• Journey Cover: You will have comprehensive coverage for your whole vacation with our Qatar travel insurance plan from India. It will include cash insurance against the loss of your passport, hotel cancellations, travel delays or cancellations, and so on.

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With so many Qatar tourist attractions, your holiday in the State of Qatar is guaranteed to be unforgettable. To make it even more intriguing, put these renowned Qatar places in your itinerary without fail:

• Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Doha Desert

The Doha Desert remains virtually undisturbed yet is infused with the delights of limitless excitement and enjoyment. Nothing beats a large stretch of the sandy desert for aesthetic beauty. The sheer splendour of the vastness of this magnificent scene will undoubtedly leave you speechless. Enjoy an exciting desert adventure and get to know the area firsthand. Remember to fasten your seatbelt before embarking on this heart-pumping adventure!

• Visit Al-Zubarah to learn about Qatar's influential history

As you walk over miles and miles of sand, a gorgeous fortress appears out of nowhere. The majesty of this UNESCO-nominated fort is unparalleled. Many visitors arrive at the fort by camelback, while others arrive via jeep. The fort appears to be telling the tourists its story. Simply stand in front of this huge fort and gaze at it. You'll understand the significance of this building and its role in Qatar's history. You will be drawn to the building, and a journey inside the fort will be an eye-opening experience. It is, without a doubt, one of Qatar's most sought-after tourist attractions.

• Qatar National Museum brings Qatar's natural history to life

The State of Qatar is recognised for its tremendous past, and this museum appears to have given its rich cultural legacy a voice. The museums provide a magnificent tale of how the nation evolved, developed, as well as turned out to be modern. The museum appears to be an origami treasure due to its intricate design. Distinct design and sharp edges give us a peek at the architects' incredible architectural skill level. The museum's design is inspired by Desert Rose.

• Smells worthy of drooling from Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif, Doha's main bazaar, is famous for its drool-worthy aromas emanating from shisha and delectable regional cuisines, which come in a variety of delicious tastes. When combined with freshly prepared juicy kebabs and cardamom tea, it provides a distinct fruity aroma. A mishmash of incense, spices, and fragrance fills the air with a lovely aroma.

• Enjoy a one-of-a-kind visit to the popular Falcon Market

The locals of Qatar are obsessed with falconry. Paying a visit to the exceptional Falcon Market is one of the most surprising yet unforgettable experiences for guests. The Falcon Hospital in the neighbourhood can compete with any five-star medical facility. Many tourists come to see the famed Falcon Festival. One of the exciting things to do in the State of Qatar is to hold a falcon in your hand and take photographs of it!

• Discover Qatar's cultural side at Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village, situated in Doha, Qatar's sparkling capital, is an excellent illustration of how a nation dependent on real estate and oil is forging a place as a global cultural and leisure destination. Katara Cultural Village is a must-see for its entertaining musical events, art exhibitions, flashy restaurants providing a variety of tasty cuisines, and other attractions. It's like going back in time when you visit this attraction!

• The Corniche is a visual treat for tired eyes

Can you believe that the gorgeous seaside promenade known as Corniche was once a landfill? It's a beautiful seven-kilometre stretch along Doha Bay. The crescent-shaped promenade is surrounded by modern structures and lush greenery. Its spectacular beauty and bright aura draw a large number of visitors and residents who come to appreciate the stunning images that are a delight for the eyes. The promenade offers views of beautiful architectural features such as Al Dafna Park and the Museum of National Art. It is the ideal site to watch man's and nature's harmony!

• Gaze at the treasure trove of collections at the Museum of Islamic Art

The Museum of Islamic Art, designed by IM Pei (Chinese architect), opened its doors to the public in 2008. The museum seems to be a stack of boxes stacked on top of each other at first view. Its white limestone veneer is relaxing, and its clean geometric edges give it an austere appearance. The building's top features eye-like apertures inspired by a 13th-century ablution fountain. This museum is organised into multiple levels, each with its own collection of relics.

• Villaggio Mall - A Shopping Lover's Paradise

Villaggio Mall, designed in the style of Venice, is a shopper's dream. With its striking design and indoor waterways, this Doha mall is one of the country's finest, attracting 50,000 people every day. Sprawled across 360,000 square metres. Shoppers may visit some of the greatest brand stores, such as Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior, and others. A sky-blue roof and an interior canal that runs through the mall create a Venice-like atmosphere. Enjoy interesting activities such as Gondola Rides, Go-Karting, Cinema ai IMAX, Ice Rink, and delicious dining options.

• Purple Island - A place where mangroves meet history

This stunning island, also known as Al Khor Island, will undoubtedly take your breath away. The island is a secret gem for nature enthusiasts, encompassing all hues of beauty. Immerse yourself in its beauty and tranquil surroundings, learn more about its age-long history and observe vivid flora and blossoms, unique marine life, fossils, fauna, and a leisurely walk through the salt marshes. You must add this unusual destination to your bucket list and have fun discovering a new side of Qatar.

Information last updated Feb 23. While this information is sourced reliably, visa requirements can change. For the most current visa details, visit the official Consulate/Embassy website.