Qatar Transit Visa: Eligibility & Quick Application Guide [2025]

Are you Planning a trip with a layover in Qatar? Whether you’re passing through Hamad International Airport or planning a brief city visit, understanding Qatar’s transit visa policies is essential. Qatar, a thriving aviation hub, simplifies travel for passengers with its well-structured transit visa program, introduced in November 2016.

This guide provides everything you need to know about the eligibility criteria, application process, and alternatives for a seamless transit experience.

How to Get a Free 96-Hour Qatar Transit Visa? (Quick Answer)

The Qatar Transit Visa is a free 96-hour visa for Qatar Airways passengers with layovers of 5+ hours, enabling brief stays in Doha for sightseeing or baggage transfers. Citizens of 90+ countries can access visa-free entry or Visa on Arrival. Apply through Qatar Airways or book a stopover online to explore Qatar seamlessly.

What is a Transit Visa?

A transit visa is a temporary permit allowing travelers to enter a country while en route to another destination. In Qatar, most passengers with layovers don’t require this visa if they stay in the transit area. However, for those stepping outside the airport, the Qatar Transit Visa applies.

Qatar Transit Visa Overview

The Qatar Transit Visa is an optional, free visa for passengers transiting for at least 5 hours and wishing to explore Doha or handle baggage transfers. It is valid for up to 96 hours (4 days) and available to all nationalities traveling with Qatar Airways.

Do You Need a Transit Visa?

Whether you need a transit visa depends on your plans:

• No Visa Needed: If you remain in the airport transit area.
• Visa Required:
  1. If you plan to leave the airport for sightseeing.
  2. If your travel involves collecting and re-checking baggage.

Eligibility Criteria for Qatar Transit Visa

Criteria	Details
Passport Validity	Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date in Qatar.
Flight Requirements	Only applicable for Qatar Airways flights with a minimum 5-hour layover.
Destination Eligibility	Transit visa is not required if Doha is your final destination.
Airline Eligibility	Both incoming and outgoing flights must be operated by Qatar Airways.
Visa-Free Status	Citizens of countries with visa-free entry to Qatar do not need a transit visa.
Name Consistency	The name on your passport must exactly match the name on the Qatar Airways reservation.

How to Apply for Qatar Transit Visa in 2025?

Applying for a transit visa is straightforward.

Method 1: Visit Qatar Airways Ticketing Office

1. Visit Office: Take your passport to the nearest Qatar Airways ticketing office.
2. Submit Application: Fill out and submit the required visa application form.
3. Check Status: Email [email protected] to track your application.

Method 2: Book a Stopover Online

1. Select Multi-City Option: Choose Doha as a stopover while booking flights.
2. Pick Eligible Flights: Ensure your layover is at least 5 hours.
3. Finalize Booking: Your transit visa application will be processed automatically.

What is the Cost of Qatar Transit Visa?

The 96-hour Qatar Transit Visa is free of charge. However, additional expenses like accommodation are the responsibility of the passenger.

Qatar Transit Visa Process and Requirements for 2025

If you plan to leave Hamad International Airport to explore Doha’s vibrant attractions or need to collect your baggage, you must apply for a transit visa before traveling to Qatar. Below is the detailed process and requirements:

Passport Requirements

• All passengers, including infants, must have a valid passport.
• The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel to Qatar (not from the application date).
• The passport must have at least two blank pages.
• A clear, readable copy of the passport is required.
• The name on the passport must match the name on the flight tickets.

Ticket Requirements

• Passengers must have confirmed tickets for both inbound and outbound flights.
• Flights must be operated by Qatar Airways.
• Layovers in Qatar should be at least 5 hours long.
• The transit visa is not valid for Doha turnaround travel (where Doha is the final destination).
• Proof of sufficient funds for staying in Qatar on a transit visa is mandatory.
• Passengers must carry a copy of their approved transit visa upon arrival in Qatar.

Latest Updates on Qatar Transit Visa

As of now, passengers transiting through Doha Airport typically do not require a transit visa if they remain within the airport’s transit area. However, a visa is mandatory in the following situations:

1. City Visit: If you plan to leave the airport for sightseeing or other activities.
2. Baggage Transfer: If your itinerary involves collecting baggage from one airline and checking it in with another.

Note: Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended its online transit visa service. Citizens of over 90 countries can access a free Visa on Arrival (VOA). Those not eligible for VOA should contact their nearest Qatar Airways office for assistance.

Alternatives: Visa-Free Entry & Visa on Arrival

If you’re from one of over 102 eligible countries, you can enjoy visa-free entry to Qatar for up to 90 days. Alternatively, travelers from 95+ nations can obtain a Visa on Arrival. Requirements typically include:

• A valid passport.
• Confirmed onward travel.
• Hotel booking.
• Health insurance.

If a Transit Visa is Rejected

In the event your transit visa is denied, you can proceed to your next destination if you hold a valid visa for it. Otherwise, you will need to arrange an alternative travel plan, either for your return or to another destination, at your own expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I leave the airport during a layover without a transit visa?

Yes, if you are eligible for visa-free entry or Visa on Arrival. Otherwise, a transit visa is required.

Q. What is the processing time for a transit visa?

It typically takes 7 days. Apply early to avoid delays.

Q. Can I use a Qatar ID instead of a transit visa?

No, Qatar IDs are for residents and not valid for transit purposes.