Guide to Residency in Qatar

Obtaining a residency visa in Qatar is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Qatar gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Secure a job or sponsorship in Qatar
  • Find employment with a company in Qatar or have a family member sponsor you.
  • Ensure the employer or sponsor is willing to act as your local sponsor for residency purposes.
• Enter Qatar on an Entry Visa
  • Apply for an entry visa through the Qatar Portal or the Qatari embassy in your home country.
  • Wait for visa approval before traveling to Qatar.
• Undergo a Medical Check-up
  • Visit the Medical Commission in Qatar for a mandatory medical examination.
  • Bring your passport, visa, and any other required documents.
• Apply for a Qatar ID Card (QID)
  • Visit the Ministry of Interior's service centers or use the MOI e-services portal to apply for your Qatar ID Card.
  • Submit the required documents, including your passport, visa, and medical check-up results.
• Register for a Residence Permit (RP)
  • Complete the Residence Permit application through your sponsor, who will process it via the Ministry of Interior.
  • Provide biometric data and any additional documentation requested.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the General Tax Authority website or their office to apply for a tax number.
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents, such as your QID and proof of address.
• Open a local bank account
  • Choose a bank in Qatar and visit a branch in person.
  • Provide your passport, Residence Permit, and proof of address to open an account.
• Understand your rights and obligations
  • Read up on the labor laws and regulations in Qatar to understand your rights as a resident.
  • Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations to maintain your residency status.

Please note that the process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Qatar can change, so it is important to check the latest information from official sources or consult with your sponsor or employer for the most up-to-date guidance.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Qatar?

"In order to visit Qatar, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Qatar, foreign nationals must obtain a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of employment or sponsorship. Additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of the residency," commented one member living in Qatar.