Hayya Visa Qatar: Requirements, Eligibility & How to Apply Online

In 2022, Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup, and the Hayya Card was first introduced as a Fan ID. Today, it works as a simple, all-in-one system that allows international visitors to enter Qatar and explore the region.

During the FIFA 2022 period, its main purpose was to help tourists, event visitors, and guests enter Qatar without complicated paperwork. In many cases, it replaced the traditional visa process. Even now, many travelers planning a trip to Qatar still use the Hayya platform for entry.

In this blog, we clearly explain who can apply, what documents you need, and how to submit your Hayya Visa application.

Shall we dive into the topic?

Table of Contents

What is a Hayya Visa?

The Hayya platform is a digital system for visitor entry to Qatar. It was first created for the FIFA World Cup 2022 to manage fans and event access, but Qatar later expanded it to support tourism and business travel.

Today, visitors can use the Hayya website or the Hayya mobile app to apply for an e-Visa before their trip. This digital permit is linked directly to the traveler’s passport, which helps make the airport process faster and easier than using a traditional visa on arrival.

The platform has evolved from a World Cup fan system into a unified entry gateway for all types of travelers. By completing the application online through the Hayya portal or app, visitors can submit their details, upload documents, and receive approval without visiting an embassy or waiting at the airport.

The system replaces many in-person steps with a simple digital process.

One of the main differences between the Hayya e-Visa and other entry methods is when and how it is issued.

The Hayya visa must be applied for and approved before you travel to Qatar, while a visa on arrival is processed only when you reach immigration.

The Hayya permit is completely digital and already linked to your passport, whereas a visa on arrival is issued physically at the airport.

Because your information is checked and confirmed in advance, the Hayya system usually provides a smoother and faster entry experience once you arrive.

Who Needs a Hayya Visa to Enter Qatar?

Since December 6, 2022, GCC citizens can enter Qatar through different ports without a Hayya card. Transit passengers who stay inside the airport transit area also do not need a Hayya permit. However, if they want to leave the airport, they will usually need a valid visa or permit, such as an ETA.

Entry rules can change, so it is best to check the latest information on the official Hayya portal before you travel.

As of 2025, these nationalities can visit Qatar using a Hayya card.

Most EU citizens can enter, except those from Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania.
Citizens of EFTA countries are eligible.
Travelers from the United States and Canada can apply.
People from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and other Asia-Pacific countries qualify.
Chile and some other South American countries are included.
Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and some other Middle Eastern countries can enter visa-free or apply for a visa.
GCC citizens from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE usually get visa-free entry.

GCC residents are eligible for a two-month multiple-entry visa. Most nationalities can enter Qatar with a Hayya card. But can it be used for other types of travel, such as business meetings?

Let’s see what our expert visa consultants have to say.

Hayya Visa vs. Regular Qatar Visit Visa

Feature	Hayya Visa	Regular Qatar Visit Visa
Application Method	You apply online through the official Hayya portal or Hayya app.	You apply through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or through a Qatar-based sponsor.
Purpose	Used mainly for tourism, events, and visiting family or friends.	Used for family visits, business visits, and general tourism.
Processing Time	Usually quick because the system is fully digital.	Processing time depends on the sponsor, type of visa, and MOI approval.
Card Requirement	No physical card required; the Hayya permit is fully digital.	No card required; approval is issued as an e-visa.
Eligibility	Open to most nationalities, depending on Hayya categories and rules.	Depends on nationality and sponsor type; may require a Qatar-based host.
Sponsorship Requirement	No sponsor needed; you apply independently.	Usually requires a sponsor (family member or employer) unless it’s a tourist visa.
Visa Validity	Typically valid for 30 days from entry.	Validity varies by visa type and MOI rules.
Entries Allowed	Usually single entry unless stated otherwise.	Can be a single or multiple entry, depending on visa type.
Extension Option	You can extend it for another 30 days online for a fee.	Extensions depend on MOI rules and visa category.
Travel Insurance	Not always required, but recommended.	Some categories require mandatory travel or health insurance.
Accommodation Proof	You can stay with family, friends, or book a hotel.	You must show hotel booking or host details from your sponsor.
Hayya Card Requirement	No physical Hayya card is needed.	Not applicable.
Public Transport Access	Often includes benefits such as easier access to public transport during events.	No special public transport benefits.
Event Access	Sometimes used for entry to approved events (e.g., during major tournaments).	Does not provide event access.
E-Gate Access at Airports	Some Hayya categories allow e-gate access for faster entry.	Usually no e-gate access unless you qualify under separate rules.
Application Fees	Depends on the Hayya category; some visas are free or low-cost.	Fees vary based on visa type and duration.
Online Status Tracking	You can track your application directly in the Hayya portal or app.	You can track the status through the MOI website or app.
Support Channels	Hayya offers 24/7 support through chat, email, and helpline.	MOI offers support through official service centers, hotlines, and the MOI portal.

If you’re asking what the eligibility requirements are for Hayya Qatar, here they are for you!

Hayya Visa Eligibility Criteria

Category	Eligibility
Tourists	You can apply if you want to visit Qatar for sightseeing or a holiday.
Event Attendees	You can apply if you plan to attend an approved event in Qatar.
Family & Friends Visit	You can apply if you are visiting someone who lives in Qatar.
Business Visitors	You can apply if you are traveling to Qatar for meetings, work events, or business activities.
GCC Residents	You can apply if you live in a GCC country and meet the residency and profession requirements.

If you want to know the requirements needed for a Hayya visa, here it is for you!

Hayya Visa Requirements (2025 Update)

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Qatar.
Passport-Size Photo: Provide a recent, clear, colored photo with a white background. Your face should take up 70–80% of the photo, showing your face and the top of your shoulders.
Return Air Ticket: Show a confirmed return or onward flight ticket that proves your planned exit from Qatar.
Accommodation Proof: Provide either a confirmed hotel booking or your host’s details, registered through the Hayya platform.
Travel Insurance: Some travelers must show proof of medical or travel insurance that is valid in Qatar.
Visa Fee: Pay the processing fee online during the Hayya visa application on the Hayya portal.

How to Apply for a Hayya Visa Online

Create an Account: Go to the official Hayya portal or download the Hayya app and register with your email or phone number.
Choose Your Visa Type: Select the category that fits your visit, such as tourism, events, or visiting family and friends.
Fill in Your Details: Enter your personal information, passport details, and travel plans accurately.
Upload Required Documents: Add your passport copy, passport-size photo, accommodation proof, return ticket, and travel insurance if needed.
Pay the Visa Fee: Complete the payment online using a debit/credit card or other available payment methods.
Submit Your Application: Review all details carefully and submit your application for approval.
Receive Confirmation: After approval, you will get a digital Hayya visa linked to your passport. You can download or save it for your travel.
Check Application Status: Track your application anytime through the Hayya portal or app until you receive final approval.

Hayya Visa Processing Time and Validity

Aspect	Details
Processing Time	The visa usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks to process. Apply well in advance to avoid delays.
Validity	The Hayya visa is normally valid for 30 days from your entry date. US passport holders can get a 2-year multiple-entry visa, with each stay up to 90 days.
Entries Allowed	Most travelers get a single-entry visa for 30 days. US passport holders get a multiple-entry visa.
Extension	You can extend the visa once for another 30 days. Request the extension online through the Hayya portal before your current visa expires. A fee applies.

Hayya Card and Its Benefits

The Hayya Card was originally introduced as a required Fan ID during the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Today, it has become Qatar’s main digital system for issuing e-visas and entry permits for tourists and business travelers.
It functions like a digital travel document that simplifies the visa process and provides several added benefits for visitors.
The Hayya platform works alongside regular visas, and in some cases, it can replace traditional visas entirely, depending on:
- Your nationality
- The purpose of your visit
Travelers who require a visa to enter Qatar can apply online through the Hayya portal for different e-visas, such as the A1 Tourist Visa.
Once approved, your Hayya Entry Permit becomes your visa and is directly linked to your passport; no embassy visit or physical paperwork is needed.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries can still use the Hayya platform for pre-registration before their trip.
Some nationalities are eligible for the A3 Electronic Travel Authorization, which allows them to:
- Enter Qatar with pre-approval
- Use the airport e-gates for faster immigration
Most Hayya applications require confirmed accommodation, which can be provided as:
- A hotel booking
- A booking through Discover Qatar (mandatory for some nationalities)
- Host details if staying with family or friends
Key advantages of the Hayya Card include:
- Receiving a pre-approved entry permit, making arrival smooth and stress-free
- Access to e-gates at Hamad International Airport, reducing waiting time
- Useful travel and transport information available through the Hayya mobile app
- Support for event access when visiting for specific events
The entire Hayya application process is fully online, from document upload to receiving the entry permit.
The A1 Tourist Visa is usually valid for 30 days, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days through the Ministry of Interior’s online services.

Conclusion:

The Hayya Card makes visiting Qatar easier and faster. It acts as the main system for visas and entry permits, provides e-gate access, and gives you pre-approved travel documents. Make sure you submit all required documents, including passport-size photos and accommodation details, well before your travel date to avoid delays.

If you need help with a visit, tourist, or business visa from Qatar, the experts at The Visa Guy Qatar can guide you through the process.

FAQ

How can I apply for the Hayya Visa from abroad?

You can apply for the Hayya Visa online through the official Hayya portal or the Hayya app from anywhere in the world. Fill in your details, upload the required documents, pay the fee, and submit your application.

Can I visit Qatar multiple times using the Hayya Visa?

Most Hayya Visas allow a single entry, valid for 30 days. However, US passport holders can apply for a multiple-entry visa valid for two years, with each stay up to 90 days.

Is a hotel booking required for a Hayya Visa?

Yes, most applicants must provide proof of accommodation. You can submit a hotel booking or details of a registered host, such as family or friends. Some nationalities may need to book through Discover Qatar.

Can I bring my family using the Hayya Visa?

Yes, you can include family members in your application if they meet the eligibility requirements and submit the required documents.

Can Qatar residents invite family or friends using the Hayya platform?

Yes, Qatar residents can invite eligible family or friends by registering their details on the Hayya platform, which simplifies the application process.

Is the Hayya Visa different from a family visit visa in Qatar?

Yes, the Hayya Visa is a digital entry permit for tourists, event attendees, or short visits, while a family visit visa is usually a longer-term visa processed through a sponsor in Qatar.

What documents do I need to sponsor a visitor via Hayya?

You need your valid ID or residence permit, details of your relationship with the visitor, and proof of accommodation. The guest must also provide a passport copy, photo, return ticket, and possibly travel insurance.