The Government of Qatar has relaunched its Hayya Visa Platform in May 2025, introducing major changes to facilitate smoother, faster visa processing for visitors from more than 200 countries.
The updated platform is part of Qatar’s initiative to position itself as a more accessible travel and tourism destination.
According to a DAAD Scholarship information portal report, the platform, which played a central role during the FIFA World Cup 2022, has now been converted into a centralised e-visa system. The relaunch is a joint effort between the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Qatar Tourism.
New Visa Categories and Validity
The upgraded Hayya platform introduces five distinct visa types:
- Tourist Visa (A1)
- GCC Resident Visa (A2)
- Visa with Electronic Travel Authorisation (A3)
- Visa for the Companion of a GCC Citizen (A4), and
- Visa-Free Entry (F1)
Most of these visas are valid for up to 90 days and can be renewed once, depending on the category.
- A1 is designated for tourists, with an initial validity of 30 days and the option to extend
- A2 is intended for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries for short stays
- A3 applies to travellers who hold valid visas or residence permits from countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen states
- A4 is meant for family members or domestic workers accompanying GCC citizens
- F1 offers visa-free entry for citizens of over 100 countries already covered by bilateral agreements
Faster Processing and Group Applications
The revised platform aims to process visa applications within 48 hours on average, offering a faster alternative to traditional consular channels. One of the key features introduced is the ability to submit group applications for up to 10 individuals at once.
The system is now integrated with Qatar’s immigration and health infrastructure. Applicants must upload documents such as return tickets, proof of accommodation, and health insurance coverage, where applicable. This enables real-time verification during the application process.
Multilingual Interface and Accessibility
The Hayya portal is now available in five languages: Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, and French. It has also been optimised for use on mobile devices, allowing users to apply and track their visa status remotely. Authorities say this update is meant to improve usability for travellers from diverse regions.
Visitors are encouraged to apply directly via the official website, https://hayya.qa. The system includes prompts to guide users through each step of the application process, including document submission and eligibility checks.
Use Cases and Upcoming Features
The platform supports a wide range of visitor profiles. This includes tourists, students attending short-term programs, family members visiting during major holidays, and GCC expatriates planning weekend trips. The A3 visa category especially supports digital nomads and professionals who travel frequently under existing international agreements.
Qatar officials have indicated that further developments are planned for later in the year. These include new Hayya+ visa categories tailored for business travellers and high-frequency visitors. Additional features such as blockchain-based verification for expedited airport entry are also being considered.
Travellers are advised to ensure their passports are valid for at least three months from the date of entry and to monitor the platform for updates on seasonal visa fee reductions tied to major national events.
For more information or to apply, visit the official site: https://hayya.qa.
