U.S. citizens will need a Qatar visa to visit this unique country, located in the Arabian Gulf, just north of Saudi Arabia. Qatar, officially called the State of Qatar, is an Islamic state in which English, along with Arabic, is spoken throughout most of the country. Qatar is a constitutional monarchy and, in 2008, had an estimated population of approximately 1,500,000.
Qatar issues a variety of visas, categorized by the type of visit. Some of the most popular are tourist visas, business visas and visas for family visits. There is even a "Visa for Camel Races". All visa applicants must have a valid passport that will not expire within 6 months of entry into Qatar, and has blank pages available for the visa stamp.
The Qatar government groups many types of visits under the category "tourist". A Qatar tourist visa is required for visiting the country for sightseeing, or visiting relatives and friends. However, it is also issued to professors, scientists or researchers who are coming to Qatar for scientific seminars or conferences. Athletes who are competing in unpaid competitions and performing artists also must obtain a tourist visa.
A tourist visa is only good for a single entry and it limits your visit to no more than 1 month, although you may apply for an extension. Single-entry visas are valid for 180 days. A multiple-entry tourist visa has the same 30-day limitations but allows for several entries and is valid for 365 days. You must apply for either tourist visa in advance of arrival to include paying all fees and submitting all required documentation. The visa itself is issued at the Doha International Airport, which is the border entry point. As a tourist visa holder, you may not work for pay or do volunteer work in Qatar any time during your stay.
In addition to the visa application form, you must show a copy of either your plane ticket or a copy of your printed travel itinerary. You will also need to submit two passport photographs, taken in color. The Qatar government also requires that you show a letter of invitation that explains why you are visiting Qatar.
Get a visa for Qatar the quick and easy way.
The cost of a visa is currently $28.00 and must be paid by credit card. Extension requests cost an additional $28.00. There can be additional processing fees depending on if you use the services of an online, 3rd party visa application company, or apply through the Qatar Government Online web site. This web side offers a visa filing service that allows you to complete and submit your application form electronically.
Applying for a Qatar visa is a relatively easy process. Typical processing time runs about 10 -1 4 days but it's always a good idea to start the process well in advance of your visit so as to not disrupt your travel plans.
Visit often to learn more information from our updated Qatar Visa.
