The Hayya Platform serves as Qatar’s comprehensive digital gateway for visitors and residents alike. Originally created for the FIFA World Cup 2022, this system has evolved into a versatile tool that now handles Qatar visa applications, event access, and various tourist services in one convenient location.
What is the Hayya Platform?
The Hayya Platform functions as your all-in-one digital companion for experiencing Qatar. It offers:
- Online visa applications for multiple visa categories
- Cultural event information and access
- Recreation recommendations throughout Qatar
- Comprehensive services finder for visitors and residents
The platform operates through both a website portal (hayya.qa) and a mobile application available on Google Play, Apple App Store, and Huawei App Gallery.
Qatar E-Visa Categories Through Hayya
The Hayya Platform processes several types of electronic visas for Qatar:
Tourist Visa (A1)
- Designed for foreigners not eligible for visa-on-arrival
- Provides 30-day validity for tourism purposes
- Requires confirmed accommodation booking
GCC Resident Visa (A2)
- Available to expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council countries
- Requires valid residency of at least three months from arrival date
- Allows a 30-day stay in Qatar
Visa with ETA (A3)
- For holders of valid visas or residency from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen countries, Australia, or New Zealand
- Does not require advance accommodation booking
- Streamlined entry process
Companion Visa for GCC Citizens (A4)
- Enables GCC citizens to bring companions to Qatar
- Simplifies travel for families and friends
Special Note on “Hayya with Me”
The “Hayya with Me” visa option, which allowed international FIFA World Cup fans to invite up to three family members or friends, has been discontinued as of February 25, 2024. Visitors who remained in Qatar on this visa must either depart or obtain a different visa category.
Requirements for Hayya Visa Application
To qualify for a Qatar e-visa through the Hayya system, you must provide:
- Passport with at least 3 months validity from your arrival date
- Confirmed accommodation (hotel booking, address in Qatar, or host information)
- Return flight ticket showing departure plans
- Payment of QAR 100 visa fee (approximately $27 USD)
Certain nationalities including India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran must book accommodation through Discover Qatar before traveling, even for visa-on-arrival purposes.
Step-by-Step Hayya Visa Application Process
The Qatar visa application through Hayya follows these steps:
- Create an account on the Hayya portal (hayya.qa) or download the Hayya mobile app
- Select your visa category (A1, A2, A3, or A4) and complete the application form
- Upload required documents including passport information and photo
- Enter accommodation details (except for A3 visa holders)
- Submit application and wait for initial processing
- Upload accommodation verification when prompted
- Pay the QAR 100 visa fee when application status changes to “Pending Payment”
- Receive your approved e-visa via email or in the Hayya app
Document Requirements for Qatar E-Visa
All Hayya visa applications require these basic documents:
- Visa photo meeting specific requirements
- Valid passport scan
- Accommodation proof (except for A3 visa type)
Additional requirements apply to specific visa categories:
- A2 and A4 visas: Scan of your GCC residency permit
- Former “Hayya with Me” program: Invitation code from a Hayya card holder
Hayya Photo Requirements
Your Qatar visa application photo must meet these specifications:
- Color photograph taken within the last 12 months
- JPG or JPEG format not exceeding 2MB
- Size: 30mm width by 40mm height
- Plain light gray background without shadows
- Clear, high-quality image without blurs or distortions
- Face centered with eyes open, looking directly at camera
- No head accessories except for religious coverings
- No photo enhancements that alter appearance
Benefits of Using the Hayya Platform
The Hayya Platform offers several advantages over traditional visa application methods:
- Convenient application from anywhere with internet access
- Faster processing compared to embassy applications
- Digital visa storage in the Hayya app for easy access
- Multiple visa categories in one platform
- Simplified entry for land border crossings at Abu Samra
Abu Samra Land Border Entry
Travelers entering Qatar by vehicle through the Abu Samra land border with Saudi Arabia can pre-register through Hayya to enjoy a smoother entry process. This feature is particularly valuable for road travelers from neighboring countries.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Discover Qatar is the official accommodation provider for the Hayya E-Visa process
- The platform charges a QAR 100 cancellation fee if your application is rejected
- Hayya is not responsible for visa approval decisions, which are made by Qatari authorities
- Visa requirements may change at the discretion of the State of Qatar
Conclusion
The Hayya Platform represents Qatar’s commitment to streamlining the visitor experience through digital innovation. By centralizing visa applications, event access, and tourist information in one user-friendly system, Qatar has created an efficient gateway for international travelers. Whether visiting for tourism, business, or to meet family and friends, the Hayya Platform provides a convenient path to experiencing all that Qatar has to offer.
Amir Amin is a blogger from Qatar. With a background in computer sciences, he founded “Qatar Visa Check” to provide essential information and support to expats navigating visa processes and settling in Qatar.