How to Get Qatar Hayya Card?
How to Get Qatar Hayya Card? The Qatar Hayya Card has redefined the way travelers access the Gulf state. Originally introduced for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, this smart travel document is now a staple for tourists, business travelers, and GCC residents looking for a convenient entry into the country. This article is your all-in-one resource to understand what the Hayya Card is, how to apply, eligibility criteria, visa types, benefits, application tracking, and more.
What is a Hayya Card?
The Hayya Card is a digital and physical visa entry system introduced by Qatar to simplify immigration procedures and enhance visitor experiences. Beyond being an entry permit, it offers access to a host of services including transportation options, digital assistance via the Hayya mobile app, and fast-track entry through Qatar’s e-gate system.
This smart visa solution is available for tourists, GCC residents, business travelers, and guests invited under the “Hayya With Me” program. It’s also a tool that complements Qatar’s move toward becoming a digitally integrated travel destination.
How to Apply for a Qatar Hayya Card in 2025
Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for your Hayya Entry Permit through the official Hayya Portal.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. | Visit the official Hayya Portal |
| 2. | Click on “Start the Hayya Journey” |
| 3. | Sign up or log in with your credentials |
| 4. | Click on “Apply for Hayya” |
| 5. | Select your visa category |
| 6. | Upload your passport-size photo |
| 7. | Upload a scanned copy of your passport |
| 8. | Provide residency details |
| 9. | Add accommodation information |
| 10. | Enter contact details and submit |
| 11. | Receive your Hayya Entry Permit via email |
Requirements for Hayya Card Application
Before applying, ensure you meet all prerequisites. Below are the core requirements to apply for a Hayya Card in Qatar.
1. Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your arrival.
- Upload a JPG/JPEG scan (under 2MB).
- Ensure the MRZ code is visible.
2. Accommodation Confirmation
You must confirm your stay details.
| Accommodation Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Family & Friends | Your Qatari host must add you on the Hayya portal |
| Hotels | Book via Discover Qatar or upload your booking manually |
3. Passport-Size Photo
Photo standards are strict. Ensure the following:
- Size: 30mm x 40mm
- Format: JPEG/JPG under 2MB
- Resolution: 720 pixels minimum
- Background: White/light grey
- Face coverage: 70-80% centered
- Expression: Neutral
- Eyewear/Headwear: Avoid unless religiously required
4. Residence Permit
For GCC Residents or ETA applicants, upload a valid Residence Permit or Visa.
5. Visa Fee (If Applicable)
- Most Hayya categories require QR 100
- “Hayya With Me” is free (requires a voucher code)
6. Return Ticket
Most travelers must show a return flight ticket on arrival.
7. Health Insurance
- Mandatory to buy insurance from a Qatar MOPH-approved provider
- Cost: QR 50 for 30 days
- Proof required on arrival (not during the application)
Hayya Visa Categories (2025 Update)
1. Tourist Entry Visa (A1)
- Fee: QR 100
- Validity: 30 days from issue
- Stay Duration: 30 days
- Accommodation required
2. GCC Resident Entry Visa (A2)
- For residents of Gulf countries
- Fee: QR 100
- Must show valid GCC Residency Permit (3+ months)
- Stay Duration: 30 days
3. Entry Visa with ETA (A3)
- For those holding valid US, UK, Schengen, Australia, NZ, or Canadian visas
- Fee: QR 100
- Stay: 30 days
4. Companion of GCC Citizen (A4)
- Must travel with the sponsor
- Fee: QR 100
- No solo entry permitted
5. Hayya With Me (C)
- Free for invitees of 2022 Hayya cardholders
- Multi-entry allowed until Jan 10, 2024
- Last exit: Jan 23, 2024
- Requires voucher code
Benefits of Hayya Visa in Qatar
Having a Hayya Card unlocks numerous travel advantages:
- Simplified Application Process via one portal
- Digital Visa Access through Hayya mobile app
- Fast-Track Airport Entry using e-gates
- Real-time Transit Updates via app
- Interactive Maps and Offers
- Companion Invitation Program for guests
Validity and Cost of Hayya Card
| Visa Type | Cost | Validity | Stay Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist (A1) | QR 100 | 30 Days | 30 Days |
| GCC Resident (A2) | QR 100 | 30 Days | 30 Days |
| ETA Entry (A3) | QR 100 | 30 Days | 30 Days |
| Companion (A4) | QR 100 | 30 Days | 30 Days |
| Hayya With Me (C) | FREE | Until Jan 10, 2024 | Until Jan 23, 2024 |
Tracking Your Hayya Application
Once submitted, log in to your My Hayya dashboard to view the status.
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Draft | Application not complete | Complete and submit |
| Pending | Under review | Wait for update |
| Request for Correction | Issue in submission | Update and resubmit |
| Approved | Application successful | Ready to travel |
| Cancelled | Withdrawn by user/system | No action required |
| Rejected | Errors in form/photo | Fix and reapply (max 5 times) |
How to Access Digital Hayya Card
Hayya Mobile App:
- iOS: App Store
- Android: Google Play
Once approved, the digital Hayya Card appears in the app—no need for a physical version anymore.
Hayya Card Customer Support
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Within Qatar | Dial 2022 |
| International | +974 4441 2022 |
| [email protected] |
For photo errors or status issues, use the hotline or email support for help.
Final Steps to Travel to Qatar
- Complete the online application.
- Upload correct documents.
- Monitor your email for approval.
- Download the Hayya to Qatar app.
- Show your digital Hayya Entry Permit at airport or border.
Hayya Card Essentials
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 3+ months, scan with MRZ visible |
| Photo | 30x40mm, JPG/JPEG, 720px, white background |
| Residence Permit | Required for GCC/ETA categories |
| Accommodation | Mandatory—Hotel or Host confirmation |
| Return Ticket | Needed for most visas |
| Health Insurance | Required (QR 50, 30 days) |
| Application Fee | QR 100 (varies by category) |
| Application Time | 2-4 Days (often <48 hrs) |
FAQs About the Qatar Hayya Card
Is the Hayya Card still required in 2025?
Ans: Yes, the Hayya Card remains a valid and recommended visa entry solution for most visitors to Qatar in 2025, especially under the new visa categories.
Can I enter Qatar without hotel booking?
Ans: You must have confirmed accommodation either via hotel booking or through a Qatari host. The system will not approve your visa without accommodation proof.
How many times can I resubmit a rejected Hayya application?
Ans: You can correct and resubmit your Hayya application up to 5 times if it gets rejected due to errors or missing documents.
Conclusion
The Qatar Hayya Card is more than just a visa it a streamlined gateway to experiencing the country with ease. Whether you’re a tourist, GCC resident, or invited guest, the process is fast, digital, and efficient. With multiple visa types, valuable perks, and real-time updates, the Hayya system continues to make travel to Qatar smarter and more accessible.
