Qatar is one of the most popular destinations for foreigners in the region. Getting a visa is exciting whether you are going to Qatar for a business trip, study, or sightseeing, but waiting for the documents to be processed is annoying. The Qatari government provides applicants a portal to check their visa processing status, and here is how.
Understanding the Types of Qatar Visa Statuses
Before we get started, it is vital that we educate ourselves with the definitions of all the visa statuses to ensure clarity. We list them in the following chart:
| Approved | An application is approved by immigration, but there are a few more steps to go. |
| Rejected | Unfortunately, an application is denied due to various reasons. |
| Pending | An application is being processed and no decision has been made yet. Immigration may request more information. |
| Visa Issued | A visa has been issued. An applicant should schedule to pick it up or pay attention to delivery. |
| Visa Expired | The last date of a visa’s effective period has passed. A new application is required to obtain a new valid visa. |
| Visa Extension | A request for extending a visa’s effective period has been submitted. |
| Visa Canceled | A visa’s validity has been taken away for various reasons |
Qatar Visa Check Online by Passport Number
The Ministry of Interior (MOI) has provided an online portal for applicants to check their visa status to ensure their legal stay in Qatar. Here are a few steps:
- Go to the MOI website https://portal.moi.gov.qa/wps/portal/MOIInternet/MOIHome
- Locate and click the “Inquiries” option
- Click the “Visa Services” button on the left menu
- When the four options show up, click the “Visa Inquiries and Printing”
- Enter either a passport number or visa number and nationality
- Enter the verification number and click “Submit”
Once everything is correctly entered, your visa status will show up on the screen with details, such as visa type, visa validity and other important information.
How to Check Qatar Visa Status Online
You also can check Qatar visa status online through MOI portal or OVC website. The following section will show you how to track visa status of Qatar step-by-step.
MOI Portal
The MOI portal also allows visa applicants to check their application status. The steps are similar to the visa check by passport number process:
- Navigate to the official website of the Ministry of Interior of Qatar
- Click Inquiry > Visa Services > Visa Approval Checking
- Enter the application number; enter either the application date or a QID sponsor/person in charge number
- Enter the verification number and click “Submit”
QVC Website
Qatar Visa Center is in charge of initial work visa processes for applicants from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Nepal, and Pakistan. These applicants can go to the Qatar Visa Center (QVC) website to check their visa status using the following steps:
- Go to the QVC website，select “Language” and then “Country”
- Select “Track Applicatioption” option
- Enter a passport number and visa number
- Enter the verification number and click “Submit”
How to Check Qatar Visa Status Offline
Although we tend to use online services nowadays when it is available, there is always a time when a physical visit is needed. If you prefer an in-person experience, you can go to nearby Qatar Embassy or Consulate. Here are the steps:
- Find the nearest Qatar embassy or consulate in your region.
- Call or look at their business hour before you go
- Prepare all the necessary information, such as passport number, visa application number, name, etc
- Talk to the staff and request your visa status
- Prepare for the next step once you receive the status. You may ask the staff for further assistance if you have any questions regarding your situation.
MOI Qatar Visa Extension
There may be an occasion when you need to extend your stay due to various reasons. If you want to extend your stay in Qatar without doing extra work, the MOI portal offers an online extension service. The procedure is relatively simple:
- Visit the MOI website and locate “Inquires” option
- Click the “Visa Services” button on the left menu
- Select the “Visa Extension Services” button
- Enter either a passport number or visa number and nationality
- Enter the verification number and click “Extend”
- Pick the extended period
- Pay the fee; we have a pricing chart in the next section
Qatar Visa Extension Fee
Visa extension fee varies depending on its type. The following chart shows each visa and its corresponding fee.
| Visa Type | Pricing |
| Tourist visa | 100 QAR per additional day of stay |
| Business visa | 200 QAR per additional day of stay |
| Family visit visa | 200 QAR per additional day of stay |
| Work visa | Free for up to 3 months; 500 QAR per additional month over the initial 3-month extension |
How to Print a Qatar Visa Online
It is essential to have a hardcopy or print out your visa before travelling, and the MOI website allows applicants to do so:
- Go to the MOI website
- Select Inquires > Visa Services > Visa Inquiry and Printing
- Enter passport number or visa number
- Enter the verification number and click “Submit”
- The printing page will appear, and click “Print” to print a hard copy or save it as a PDF file
FAQ
How to check the status of a Qatar medical visa?
Follow the same procedure as a regular visa using the MOI portal or QVC website. Applicants can go to these websites and enter their passport number and visa application number to check their status. Applicants can also check their medical visa by visiting a nearby Qatar embassy or consulate.
How long does it take to get a Qatar visa?
There is no firm answer. A visa application can take from a few business days to weeks depending on an applicant’s travel history, the information provided, and the number of total applications. Sometimes a description caused by a natural disaster may cause a delay.
Is Qatar work visa open for Indians?
Yes, Indians are eligible to apply for a work visa in Qatar as long as they provide the required information. Both MOI and QVC can handle their applications. Typically, a passport that has a validity of at least 6 months longer than the claimed period of stay is required. Also, a possible employee must have a hiring letter from the employer as well as his or her proof of education if necessary.
In recent years, the Qatari government has been encouraging foreigners to fill the workforce due to a prolonged workforce shortage. Notice though, not all professions are needed in Qatar, so job seekers should do their research before applying.
Are children eligible to apply for a Qatar visa?
Yes, as long as children have valid passports and visas; however, there may be extra documents and procedures that need to be undergone. Minors are required to show proof of financial support in their visa application. If traveling with family, children must be listed on the same application filed by the same group of adults or guardians.
Wrap up
When applying for a Qatar visa, make sure you read through the instructions and prepare all required documents ahead of time. This guide can help you check Qatar visa by passport number, online or offline. Follow the steps above mentioned for a smooth application.
Erin Lo