Qatar is a major transit hub with Hamad International Airport (DOH) serving millions of passengers each year. Many travelers passing through Doha wonder if they need a visa for a connecting flight. The answer depends on the length of the layover, nationality, and whether you plan to leave the airport.
For short layovers where you stay inside the airport, a visa is usually not required. However, if you plan to leave the airport for sightseeing or a hotel stay, you may need a transit visa or visa on arrival. This guide explains Qatar’s visa requirements for connecting flights, who needs a visa, and how to apply for one if necessary.
Understanding Qatar’s Transit Visa Rules
A transit visa is a short-term visa that allows passengers to enter Qatar during a layover. Qatar Airways and the Ministry of Interior (MOI) offer a free transit visa for travelers with layovers between 5 and 96 hours.
Transit Visa for Qatar: Eligibility and Application Process
Qatar follows two types of transit policies:
- Airside Transit – Staying inside the airport without passing through immigration. No visa is required.
- Landside Transit – Exiting the airport for a short stay in Qatar. A transit visa or visa on arrival may be required.
Visa rules depend on your nationality, layover duration, and whether you leave the airport.
Do You Need a Visa for a Connecting Flight in Qatar?
Visa requirements vary based on layover duration and whether you leave the airport.
| Layover Duration | Do You Need a Visa? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 24 hours (Short Layover) | No visa required | Must stay inside the airport |
| 5 to 96 hours (Transit Visa Eligible) | Free Qatar Transit Visa | Must be flying with Qatar Airways |
| More than 24 hours | Visa required | Must apply for a visa before departure |
| Leaving the airport for sightseeing or hotel stay | Visa required | Transit visa or visa on arrival needed |
If your layover is less than 24 hours and you stay inside the airport, no visa is needed. If you plan to leave the airport for a longer layover, you must check if you qualify for a transit visa or visa on arrival.
Qatar Transit Visa Policy (For Layovers of 5-96 Hours)
Qatar offers a free transit visa for passengers with a layover between 5 and 96 hours. This visa allows travelers to exit the airport and explore Qatar before their next flight.
Eligibility for the Qatar Transit Visa:
- Available only for Qatar Airways passengers
- Layover must be between 5 and 96 hours
- A confirmed onward ticket is required
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
How to Apply for a Free Qatar Transit Visa:
- Book a flight with Qatar Airways
- Apply online through the Qatar Airways website at least 7 days before travel
- Submit passport details and flight itinerary
- Receive an electronic visa approval before departure
Qatar Airways also offers a stopover package that includes discounted hotels for long layovers.
Exemptions: Who Doesn’t Need a Qatar Transit Visa?
Certain travelers can transit through Qatar without a visa, depending on their nationality and flight conditions.
Visa-Free Transit Passengers:
- Citizens of visa-exempt countries (GCC nationals, EU passport holders, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc.)
- Passengers on same-day connecting flights who do not leave the airport
- Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries
To confirm your eligibility, check Qatar’s official visa exemption list before flying.
How to Apply for a Qatar Transit Visa?
Travelers who need a transit visa can apply online before departure.
Steps to Apply for a Qatar Transit Visa:
- Visit the Qatar Airways Transit Visa page
- Enter personal details and upload passport information
- Provide flight booking details and confirm onward travel
- Wait for visa approval, which typically takes 1 to 5 days
Required Documents for a Qatar Transit Visa:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- A confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- A hotel booking confirmation (if staying overnight)
The transit visa is single-entry and valid for up to 96 hours.
What to Do During a Layover in Qatar Without a Visa?
If you have a short layover and cannot leave the airport, there are many facilities available at Hamad International Airport (DOH).
Things to Do Inside the Airport:
- Relax in premium lounges (free access for Qatar Airways Business & First-Class travelers)
- Explore duty-free shopping and luxury brand stores
- Use free Wi-Fi and rest zones for sleeping and relaxation
- Try international restaurants and cafés inside the terminal
- Visit the Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Center (indoor pool, gym, spa)
If you want to explore Doha but do not have a visa, Qatar Airways offers a free city tour for eligible passengers.
Can You Get a Visa on Arrival for a Layover in Qatar?
Many nationalities qualify for a visa on arrival, which allows travelers to enter Qatar without prior approval.
Visa on Arrival Requirements:
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
- A confirmed return ticket or onward flight
- Hotel booking or proof of accommodation
Visa on Arrival Duration:
- 90-day visa for EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Schengen countries
- 30-day visa for India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and other approved countries
The visa on arrival is free for many countries, but some may require a small fee upon entry.
Conclusion
Most travelers do not need a visa for a short layover in Qatar if they stay inside the airport. For long layovers (5-96 hours), Qatar Airways offers a free transit visa. Travelers wishing to leave the airport can also check visa-on-arrival options based on their nationality. Checking Qatar’s visa requirements before travel ensures a smooth and hassle-free transit experience.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
This section answers common questions about Qatar’s transit visa rules, layovers, and visa-free entry. Find out if you need a visa, how to leave the airport, and transit options for different nationalities.
Do I need a visa for a 2-hour layover in Qatar?
No, if your layover is less than 24 hours and you stay inside the airport, you do not need a visa.
Can I leave the airport during a layover in Doha?
Yes, but you need a transit visa or visa on arrival if you plan to leave the airport for sightseeing.
How do I check if I need a transit visa for Qatar?
Check the Qatar Airways website or visit Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal for visa eligibility.
Does Qatar Airways provide free accommodation for long layovers?
Yes, Qatar Airways offers free stopover hotel stays for layovers over 12 hours under its Stopover Program.
Can I get a Qatar transit visa if I have a connecting flight with another airline?
No, the Qatar transit visa is only available for Qatar Airways passengers. Other airlines may have different transit policies.