The Family Visit Visa in Qatar is an essential entry permit that allows expatriates to reunite with family members. This visa is especially important for families wishing to connect with relatives residing in Qatar, providing an opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and social environment. By facilitating these visits, the Family Visit Visa strengthens familial bonds and contributes to the emotional well-being of expatriates.
Applying for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar can seem daunting, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure you successfully navigate the application system.
What is a Family Visit Visa in Qatar?
A family visit visa enables expatriates in Qatar to invite their family members for a temporary stay. This not only helps maintain family bonds but also provides emotional support, enhancing the well-being of those living abroad.
Key Requirements for the Qatar Family Visit Visa
Understanding the key requirements for the family visit visa is crucial to ensuring a successful application. The process involves specific documentation and eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. From holding a valid residence permit to providing proof of relationship and health insurance, being aware of these requirements will streamline your application process.
1. Valid Residence Permit
You must have a valid Qatar residence permit to apply. This visa is usually available to expatriates in professional roles, excluding lower-wage jobs.
2. Age Limit
The visa is available only for visitors under 60 years old. Check the latest requirements, as regulations can change.
3. Required Documents
You’ll need to gather several documents for both the applicant and the visitor:
Applicant’s Documents:
- Qatar ID: A copy of your valid Qatar ID.
- Proof of Employment and Salary: This can include your work contract and company ID.
- No-Objection Letter: A letter from your employer stating there’s no objection to your family visit.
Visitor’s Documents:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of application.
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent photos that meet specific size requirements.
- Proof of Relationship: Documents like marriage or birth certificates.
- Confirmed Round-Trip Flight Tickets: Proof of travel arrangements.
- Proof of Accommodation: A hotel booking or tenancy agreement.
- Bank Statement (Optional): To show financial stability.
4. Health Insurance
Visitors must have health insurance coverage. As of February 2023, this is mandatory, and plans start at QAR 50 per month.
5. Salary Requirements
The minimum salary to apply has increased to QAR 15,000. This is important for ensuring you can support your family during their visit.
6. Housing Requirements
You need to provide proof of adequate accommodation. This could be a rental contract or details about employer-provided housing.
How to Apply for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar
Applying for a family visit visa can be done through various channels, including online, via mobile apps, or in person. Each method has its own set of steps, so it’s essential to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Apply For Qatar Family Visit Visa Through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) Portal
Applying for a family visit visa online through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal offers a convenient and efficient way to submit your application from the comfort of your home. The MOI portal is designed to streamline the application process, making it easy for expatriates to navigate the necessary steps, upload required documents, and track their application status.
Step 1: Log in to the MOI e-Services Portal
Go to the MOI e-Services Portal. Use your smartcard for secure authentication. Make sure you have your smartcard and login credentials ready.
- After logging in, locate the “Residency and Visa Services” section on the main dashboard. Click on “Issue Visa” and select “Family Visit Application.”
Step 3: Select Visa Application Type
Choose the specific type of Family Visit Visa you wish to apply for.
Step 4: Submit a New Application
Click on “New Application.” Enter expatriate details, including personal information and their relationship to you (the applicant). Click “Next.”
Step 5: Enter Passport Details
Input the visitor’s passport number and other required details. Click “Next” to continue.
Step 6: Provide Email Address
Enter a valid email address to receive a copy of the application receipt and any further communications. Click “Next.”
Step 7: Attach Required Documents
Upload all necessary documents per the MOI guidelines. Ensure that documents are in digital format before uploading. Click “Next” after attaching the documents.
Step 8: Review and Submit
Thoroughly review all entered information and attached documents for accuracy. Once satisfied, click “Submit” to finalize your Family Visit Visa application.
Apply For Qatar Family Visit Visa Through the Metrash2 App
The Metrash2 app provides a user-friendly mobile solution for applying for a family visit visa in Qatar. With this app, you can complete your application on-the-go, eliminating the need to visit physical offices. The app allows you to manage all aspects of your visa application, from submitting documents to making payments, making the process quick and accessible.
Step 1: Open the Metrash2 App
Open the Metrash2 app on your mobile device and log in using your credentials to access the application’s features.
Step 2: Access Visa Services
Find and click on the “Visa” icon to access visa-related services.
Step 3: Select “Issue Visa”
Within the “Visa” section, select the “Issue Visa” icon to begin your visa application.
Step 4: Choose “Family Visit”
From the available visa options, select the “Family Visit” icon specifically for family visit visa applications.
Step 5: Select “Family Visa Application”
Within the “Family Visit” section, click on “Family Visa Application” to continue with your application.
Step 6: Click on “New Application”
Click on “New Application” to start a new family visit visa request.
Step 7: Fill in Required Information
Enter the necessary details, such as the applicant’s Qatar ID, visitor’s passport copy, proof of relationship (marriage certificate for spouse, birth certificate for children), and round-trip flight tickets. Employment details are not required through the Metrash2 app.
Step 8: Validate All Information
Review all information to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Step 9: Upload Required Documents
Attach necessary documents, including passports, photographs, and supporting letters. Ensure all documents meet the specified criteria.
Step 10: Submit and Wait
After submission, monitor the status of your Family Visit Visa application. Processing may take a few weeks.
Step 11: Pay the Required Fee After Visa Approval
Once approved, pay the required fee of QAR 200 via the app or at the Immigration Office.
Step 12: Health Insurance Purchase
As of April 2023, health insurance is no longer required during the application process. After your visa is approved, you’ll receive instructions to purchase mandatory health insurance. Enter your visa number to update your information in the Metrash system and print your visa copy after successful insurance purchase.
Important Steps After Visa Approval
- Visa Approval: Apply for your visit visa through the usual channels. Once approved, you’ll receive a notification.
- Health Insurance Purchase: Look for a message with instructions on purchasing the required health insurance, often including your visa number.
- Visa Update: Enter your visa number during the insurance purchase to automatically update your information in the Metrash system, linking the insurance to your approved visa.
- Visa Printing: After successful insurance purchase and system update, you can print your official visa copy.
- Visa Sharing: Download the printed visa copy and share it with your visitor for travel purposes.
Apply for Qatar Family Visit Visa Offline
For those who prefer a traditional approach, applying for a family visit visa offline is a viable option. This method involves submitting physical documents at designated service centers, providing a direct way to engage with authorities. While this option may take more time than online methods, it allows for personal interaction and assistance if you have any questions during the application process.
Step 1: Download and Complete the Application Form
Obtain the official Family Visit Visa application form from the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or at designated service centers.
Step 2: Submit the Form
Deliver the completed application form to the Expatriate Affairs Department or a Unified Services Center.
Step 3: Enclose Required Documents
Prepare and include the following documents with your application form:
- Host’s Qatar ID (QID)
- Visitor’s valid passport
- Certified relationship documents (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Employment contract (certified copy)
- Police clearance certificate for adult visitors
- Health insurance proof from a recognized provider
- Medical examination certificate (if required)
Step 4: Verification of Additional Conditions
Be prepared to meet any additional conditions or provide further documentation if requested during the processing of your application.
Validity and Extension of the Qatar Family Visit Visa
The initial validity of a Family Visit Visa is 30 days, with options for extensions under specific conditions:
- Dependents (Spouse and Children): Eligible for extensions of up to five additional months.
- Other Relatives: Can extend their stay for up to two additional months.
Extension Requirements
To apply for an extension, visitors must meet the following requirements:
- Health Insurance: All visitors must have valid health insurance for the duration of their extended stay.
- Medical Examination: A medical check-up may be required as part of the extension process.
Eligibility for Sponsoring Family Members
Eligible family members for sponsorship include:
- 1st Degree: Spouse, children, parents.
- 2nd Degree: Siblings, grandparents.
- 3rd Degree: Nephews, nieces, aunts, and uncles.
What is an Entry Visa for Family Members?
An Entry Visa for Family Members in Qatar is a temporary permit designed to allow the family members of Qatari residents and citizens—including spouses, children, and parents—to visit and stay in Qatar for a specified duration.
Key Details of the Entry Visa
- Validity for Entry: Once approved, the visa allows family members to travel to Qatar within 90 days.
- Duration of Stay: Upon arrival, the visa remains valid for 30 days, starting from the date of entry.
- Additional Requirements: Applicants may need to complete medical examinations and provide fingerprints.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Fee Structure
The fees for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar depend on various factors, including visa duration and processing speed. Here’s an overview:
| Duration | Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Days | Short-term (extendable up to 5 months) | QAR 200 |
| 3 Months / 6 Months | Long-term | QAR 200 – 500 |
Country-Specific Fees:
- Pakistan: PKR 20,000 – 50,000 for a 3-month visa.
- India: Approximately INR 9,399 for a 3-month visa.
For the most accurate and current fee information, it is recommended to consult the Qatar Ministry of Interior or the official government websites relevant to your country.
Understanding the family visit visa Qatar application process can greatly simplify your experience in reuniting with loved ones. Whether applying online via the MOI portal, the Metrash2 app, or through offline channels, ensuring that all requirements are met is crucial for a successful application.
For more insights and updates on the Family Visit Visa process or other residency-related topics, be sure to check back on our blog. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might benefit from the information.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or share your experiences in the comments below. Happy planning, and may your family visits be filled with joy and cherished moments!
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