Qatar has relaunched the Hayya Platform for online visa processes, providing a unified system for travelers to the country. All visa-required visitors can now apply for a Qatar eVisa through the platform, simplifying the application process. The platform is accessible through the web or a smartphone app from anywhere in the world. 

Qatar initially introduced an online visa platform in June 2017 for non-visa eligible nationalities (excluding Israelis and Palestinians) to apply for electronic tourist visas. The Hayya platform played a crucial role in facilitating travel permits for international football fans during the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup. The Ministry of the Interior extended the validity of approved Hayya Cards until 2024, allowing cardholders an extended stay in the country.

Eligible Visitors Can Apply for Qatar Visa Online: Hayya Platform Relaunched

The Hayya platform has been relaunched, providing a unified system for visa processes for all foreign visitors, including GCC residents and companions traveling with GCC citizens.

Eligible Visitors for Online Application

Visitors eligible to apply through the online platform are categorized as follows:

1. A1: Qatar visa-required nationalities not eligible for a visa on arrival.
2. A2: GCC residents (of any profession).
3. A3: Holders of a valid visa or residence permit from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, the US, or any Schengen country.

Health Insurance Requirement and Exemptions

Most applicants are required to have valid health insurance to apply through the Hayya platform. However, the A3 category is exempt from this requirement if the intended stay is up to 30 days.

E-gate Access and Pre-registration

Qatar visas obtained through the platform can be used for e-gate entry at Hamad International Airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience. Additionally, travelers entering Qatar through the Abu Samra land border with a vehicle can conveniently pre-register online to expedite their entry.

New Features for Travelers

The relaunched Hayya platform now offers a range of helpful features to assist travelers in planning their trip to Qatar. These include maps and advice on navigating public transportation.

Qatar Reintroduces the Hayya Visa Application Platform: Streamlining the Application Process

Saeed Ali Al Kuwari, the CEO of the Hayya Platform, is hailing the re-launch of the Hayya Platform as an extension of the sustainable legacy of the FIFA World Cup.

At a press conference to announce the relaunch, Al Kuwari expressed that the platform is "the legacy which we build upon" in order to meet the national tourism goal of attracting over 6 million yearly visitors by 2030.

Enhancing Qatar's Visa Policy

Akbar Al Baker, the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, noted that Qatar's visa policy is already the most open of all the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and the 8th most open worldwide.

"We are pleased that the latest developments will further cement Qatar's position as a leading tourism destination and will provide the opportunity for even more travelers to experience the country's truly unique touristic offering," Al Baker said.

Boosting Tourism and the Economy

The number of tourism arrivals to Qatar has been steadily on the rise in recent months. By the end of March, the number of arrivals for 2023 had already reached 1.16 million – a record for this quarter. This positive trend has encouraged the reintroduction of the Hayya Visa Application Platform.

"This will not only provide a valuable contribution to our economy but will help create countless employment opportunities across our country," Al Baker added.

With the relaunch of the Hayya Platform, Qatar aims to streamline the visa application process and facilitate smoother entry for tourists. The enhanced platform is expected to support the country's goal of becoming a top global tourism destination and achieving its ambitious visitor target.