Qatar ETA Visa [Hayya A3] Guide 2024

Planning a trip to Qatar can be exciting, but figuring out the visa process might feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Qatar ETA Visa, also known as the Hayya A3 Visa. We’ll cover what it is, who can get it, and how to apply. Let’s make your journey to Qatar smooth and hassle-free!

Use our Qatar Visa Check Tool to find out the status of your Qatar visa.

What is a Qatar ETA Visa?

The Qatar ETA Visa, or Hayya A3 Visa, is an electronic travel permit that lets you enter Qatar. It’s a quick and easy way for many travelers to visit this beautiful country. Qatar started this system in September 2017 to make it simpler for people to visit.

Who Can Get a Qatar ETA Visa?

You can apply for a Qatar ETA Visa if:

1. You have a valid visa or residence permit from one of these places:
   • Schengen countries
   • United States of America (USA)
   • United Kingdom (UK)
   • Canada
   • Australia
   • New Zealand
2. Your passport is valid for at least three months from when you plan to enter Qatar.
3. You have a place to stay in Qatar (like a hotel booking or a friend’s home).
4. You have a return flight ticket.
5. If you’re staying for more than 30 days, you need health insurance that meets Qatar’s rules.

Remember, even if you can get a visa when you arrive in Qatar, you can still choose to get an ETA visa online before you travel. It’s often faster and easier!

Documents Needed For Travel Using ETA Visa

To apply for your Qatar ETA Visa, you’ll need to prepare some documents:

1. Passport Information: A clear picture of the main page of your passport.
2. Recent Photo: A passport-style photo of yourself.
3. Flight Details: Your flight booking information. (If you’re flying with Qatar Airways, you don’t need this.)
4. Where You’re Staying:
   • If it’s a hotel, you need the booking confirmation.
   • If you’re staying with someone in Qatar, you need an invitation letter from them, plus copies of their Qatar ID and passport.
5. Proof of Where You Live: This could be things like a utility bill, rent agreement, or address page in your passport.
6. Valid Visa or Residence Permit: From one of the countries mentioned earlier (like USA, UK, Canada, etc.).

Sometimes, you might need to show extra documents:

• Proof that you have at least $8,000 in investments.
• Papers showing you earn at least $8,000 a year.
• Evidence that you’ve traveled to Qatar, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Schengen countries, USA, or UK in the last five years.

Good news! As of 2024, you don’t need to show any COVID-19 documents to enter Qatar.

How to Apply for a Qatar ETA Visa Online?

Applying for your Qatar ETA Visa is easy. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to the Hayya Website

Visit hayya.qa and click “My Hayya” in the top right corner.

Step 2: Create an Account

If you’re new, click “Sign Up” and use your email to make an account.

Step 3: Start Your Application

Once logged in, click “Apply for Hayya”.

Step 4: Choose Your Visa Type

Select “Visa with ETA (A3)”.

Step 5: Tell Them Why You’re Visiting

Pick a reason like tourism, business, or visiting friends.

Step 6: Fill in Your Information

1. Upload a clear photo of yourself.
2. Add your passport details.
3. Say where you’re from and where you live now.
4. Tell them where you’ll be staying in Qatar.
5. Give your contact details and an emergency contact.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Check all your information is correct and submit your application.

Step 8: Pay the Fee

If your application is approved, you’ll get an email to pay the visa fee. It costs 100 Qatari Riyals (about 27 US Dollars).

After you’ve paid, you’ll get your Hayya Entry Permit by email. You can also see it in the Hayya App on your phone.

How Long Does It Take?

Usually, it takes about 48 hours to get your Qatar ETA Visa after you’ve sent all your documents. But sometimes it can take up to 5 working days, so it’s good to apply early!

How Long Can You Stay with a Qatar ETA Visa?

With a Qatar ETA Visa, you can stay in Qatar for up to 30 days. The visa is valid for 30 days from when it’s issued, so make sure to plan your trip within that time.

Qatar ETA Visa vs. Tourist Visa: What’s the Difference?

The main difference is who can get them:

• Qatar ETA Visa: For people who have valid visas or residence permits from certain countries (like USA, UK, Canada, etc.).
• Qatar Tourist Visa: For people who don’t qualify for an ETA but still want to visit Qatar.

Both let you visit Qatar, but the ETA is usually quicker and easier to get if you’re eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions people often ask:

Q: Can I get an ETA Visa if my passport expires soon?

A: Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter Qatar. If it’s not, you’ll need to renew it first.

Q: Do babies and children need ETA Visas too?

A: Yes, everyone needs a visa to enter Qatar, no matter how old they are. Each child needs their own visa.

Q: How do I get my visa after it’s approved?

A: They’ll email it to you at the address you gave when you applied.

Q: I’m stopping in Qatar twice on my trip. Do I need two visas?

A: Yes, you need a separate visa for each time you enter Qatar. You can apply for both online, but make sure there are at least 5 working days between your visits.

Q: Can I get my money back if my visa application is denied?

A: You can’t get back the government fees, but you might be able to get a refund for the online service fees.

Q: Why might my visa application be denied?

A: Unfortunately, Qatar doesn’t tell people why their applications are denied. It’s a good idea to make sure all your information is correct when you apply.

Q: Can I apply for an ETA Visa if my passport only has one name on it?

A: No, you need at least two names in your passport to apply for a Qatar ETA Visa.

Q: Do I need to apply for my visa when I book my flight?

A: No, you can apply for your visa any time up to 5 working days before your trip.