Armenian citizens can enter Qatar for up to 90 days without applying for a visa beforehand.
Armenians will obtain a visa waiver upon arrival in Qatar if they present a passport valid for at least 3 months and a confirmed hotel booking.
NOTE: If planned stay exceed 3 months, exploring Qatar visa options in advance is crucial.
Available types of visas for Armenia citizens include Tourist Visas valid for 90 days, eVisas with a validity of 30 days, GCC Resident Visas, and Visas for Companions of GCC Citizens.
Armenians can visit the Hayya platform for additional information on visa requirements and may consider applying for a visa online to avoid waiting upon arrival.
Furthermore, contacting the Qatar Embassy can provide specific guidance and updates.
Types of Qatar Visas
Qatar offers several types of visas suited for various travel needs.
It is advisable for Armenian citizens planning extended stays or trips with specific purposes to research and get the appropriate Qatar visa type if needed.
Tourist Visa (A1)
Perfect for short-term tourism and leisure, the Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days and allows up to 30 days of stay in Qatar.
The visa is a single-entry permit, meaning it can only be used for one visit to Qatar.
Additionally, it is non-refundable and non-transferable. You can obtain it online, which is a convenient option.
eVisa (A3)
The Qatar eVisa is an electronic visa that enables a 30-day stay in the country.
It’s ideal for individuals who prefer a hassle-free visa application process without visiting an embassy or consulate.
Like the Tourist Visa, the eVisa is generally a single-entry permit and is non-refundable and non-transferable.
GCC Resident Visa (A2)
Armenian citizens residing in GCC countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, have the option to obtain the GCC Resident Visa.
The applicant must have a valid residency permit from the GCC country where they reside.
Additionally, this visa is often extendable, allowing for longer stays if necessary, though approval from Qatari immigration authorities is required for any extension.
Visa for Companion of GCC Citizen (A4)
The visa is designed for individuals who are companions of GCC citizens.
Documentation proving the relationship and residence with the GCC citizen is required to apply for a Visa for a Companion of GCC Citizen.
The duration and entry conditions of this visa can vary, so consulting official sources, such as portal.moi.gov.qa/qatarvisas or the Qatar Embassy, for the most accurate and updated information is advisable.
Getting a Visa Waiver upon Arrival
Armenian citizens do not need a visa beforehand to enter Qatar for short visits. Instead, they are eligible to obtain a visa waiver upon arrival.
This process involves meeting specific entry requirements, such as having a passport with at least 3 months of validity and a confirmed hotel reservation from the Discover Qatar website.
The visa waiver allows Armenian travelers to stay in Qatar for up to 90 days, simplifying travel planning.
To obtain a Qatar visa waiver upon arrival, follow these steps:
- Arrival at the Airport: Upon arrival at Hamad International Airport in Doha, proceed to the immigration counter.
- Present Your Documents: Hand over your passport and the required documents to the immigration officer. Make sure to inform them that you are applying for a visa waiver upon arrival.
- Receive Your Visa Waiver: If everything is in order, the immigration officer will issue you a visa waiver, allowing you to stay in Qatar for the permitted duration.
- Compliance with Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any additional regulations or requirements that may apply during your stay in Qatar, including any health protocols.
How to Apply for a Qatar eVisa
The Qatar eVisa process can be managed through the https://hayya.qa/ and consists of several simple steps:
1. Initiating the eVisa Procedures
Click Start the Hayya Journey and select one of the options, such as “Flying to Qatar,” “Driving to Qatar,” or “Seeking Accommodation.”
2. Choosing Your Path
Select your nationality and available Qatar visa type.
4. Entering Details
Enter details like the purpose of the visit and personal/residence information accurately. Then, attach the necessary documents.
5. Covering the Fee
When applying for a Qatar visa, a processing fee is necessary to complete the visa application.
6. Submitting Your Application
With everything verified, check the application summary and proceed to submit. You will receive a Qatar visa in the email.
NOTE: Remember to print the received file with a Qatar visa and take it for the check at the border crossing.
Processing Times for Qatar Visa
The processing times for a Qatar visa can vary significantly depending on the type of visa you are applying for:
- Tourist Visa: Typically processed within 2 weeks. Applying before your travel date is advisable to accommodate any possible delays.
- eVisa: It is usually completed within 5 working days. This makes eVisa a convenient option for last-minute trips.
- GCC Resident Visa: This visa usually requires a longer processing time of around 2 weeks or more, as additional residency status verification is needed.
- Visa for Companion of GCC Citizen: Processing varies depending on documentation verification.
NOTE: Armenians don’t need to get a Qatar visa before, but may obtain it to save time upon arrival.
Keep in mind that processing times can be longer due to high application volumes, additional security checks, or incomplete application submissions.
Documents Armenian Citizens Need
Armenian citizens must have a valid passport for at least 3 months.
Important: A confirmed hotel reservation from the Discover Qatar https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival/ is a mandatory requirement as well.
Besides, when applying for a eVisa to Qatar, Armenians must prepare the following documents for a smooth application process:
- Valid Passport: A passport with at least 3 months of remaining validity from entry into Qatar is required.
- Face Photographs: Applicants must provide recent passport-sized photographs that adhere to the specified guidelines set by Qatari authorities.
- Proof of Accommodation: For example, a hotel booking confirmation.
- Return or Onward Ticket: A confirmed return or onward ticket is necessary to indicate your intention to leave Qatar after your visit.
Having all these documents in order before submitting the Qatar visa application can prevent processing delays, so keep that in mind.
Contact Information for the Qatar Embassy
Currently, there is no Qatar Embassy located in Armenia. Armenian citizens seeking assistance relating to visas or other consular services may:
- contact the nearest Qatar Embassy in a neighboring country
- use online resources for guidance and support
For the most up-to-date information, referring to official Qatar government websites, such as portal.moi.gov.qa/qatarvisas, is recommended.
The Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Qatar may offer support and assistance for various consular services.
- Address: Doha, Al Dafna, Villa no.5, st.501, zone 67
- Phone: +974 44919232
- Email: armqatarembassy@mfa.am
- Website: https://www.mfa.am/en/embassies/qa
Frequently Asked Questions about Qatar Visas
- Do Armenians need a visa to visit Qatar?
No, Armenian citizens can visit Qatar visa-free for up to 90 days. They can get a visa waiver upon arrival. - How do I apply for a Qatar eVisa?
Apply for a Qatar eVisa on the Hayya portal and follow the step-by-step instructions. - What documents are required for a Qatar eVisa application?
You need a valid passport, face photograph, return ticket, and accommodation proof to apply for a Qatar eVisa. - How long does it take to process a Qatar visa?
The processing time depends on the type of Qatar visa you apply for. A Tourist Visa is processed up to 2 weeks, while the eVisa is processed within 5 days. - Can I extend my stay in Qatar?
Extensions may be possible depending on the type of Qatar visa. - Can I work in Qatar on a Tourist Visa?
No, Tourist Visas are strictly for leisure purposes and do not permit work. - What should I do if my Qatar visa application is rejected?
If your Qatar visa application is rejected, review the reasons provided. For help, contact the Qatar Embassy or consular services in your area. - Can I apply for a Qatar eVisa without a hotel reservation?
No, a confirmed hotel reservation is a mandatory requirement for the Qatar eVisa application process.
Conclusion
While Armenian citizens benefit from a visa-free stay of up to 90 days in Qatar, knowing other travel requirements, such as having a valid passport and proof of accommodation, is essential.
However, it is good to know that a Qatar visa is required for longer visits or specific purposes.
Each visa type comes with distinct requirements and processing times that travelers must plan for accordingly.
For further information or assistance regarding Qatar visas and travel requirements, Armenian citizens can contact the official Qatar embassy in neighboring countries or use online resources.
