The Qatar Family Visit Visa allows expatriate residents to bring their close relatives to Qatar for a short visit. This visa is for spouses, children, parents, and other first and second-degree relatives. It is initially issued for one month.
It can be extended up to five additional months in some cases, allowing relatives to stay for a total of six months.
This temporary arrangement is ideal for those who seek a brief visit with their loved ones residing in Qatar.
For expatriates who wish to establish a long-term home with their families, the Family Residence Visa offers a more permanent solution.
This visa permits sponsored relatives to live in Qatar for up to two years. It can be renewed based on the sponsor’s employment contract and residential status.
This visa is particularly beneficial for families who aim to stay together for extended periods. It ensures stability and continuity.
Both visa options serve different needs. The Family Visit Visa provides a short-term solution for visiting relatives.
The Family Residence Visa supports long-term family residency. These visas show Qatar’s commitment to accommodating the diverse needs of its expatriate community.
They enable families to maintain close bonds despite geographical distances.
Required Documents for Qatar Family Visit Visa
Applying for a family visit visa to Qatar involves submitting specific documents through the Metrash app. The required documents vary depending on whether the applicant is sponsoring their spouse and children or other relatives.
For Wife and Children
When sponsoring a wife and children, applicants must upload the following documents:
- Visitor’s Passport Copy: Ensure the passport has a minimum validity of six months.
- Proof of Relationship: This includes a marriage certificate for the wife and birth certificates for the children.
- Round-Trip Flight Tickets: Provide proof of confirmed travel plans.
It’s important to note that employment details are not necessary for this application. The Metrash system automatically links labour contracts, streamlining the process.
For Other Relatives
Married expatriates residing in Qatar can also sponsor other relatives. The required documents include:
- Visitor’s Passport Copy: The passport should be valid for at least six months.
- Proof of Relationship: This could be a birth certificate, passport, or other relevant documents that establish the familial connection.
- Round-Trip Flight Tickets: Confirmed travel bookings are required.
This process allows expatriates to bring their family members to Qatar for a visit, ensuring they provide all necessary documentation for a smooth application process.
Qatar Family Visit Visa Requirements
Expatriate residents in Qatar can bring their families for visits by meeting specific salary and professional criteria.
The visa process is straightforward but requires applicants to adhere to the minimum salary requirements and possess appropriate professional qualifications.
Minimum Salary
To sponsor a family visit visa for spouses and children, expatriates must earn a minimum monthly salary of QAR 5,000.
For other relatives, such as siblings or grandparents, the salary threshold increases to QAR 10,000. This distinction ensures that the expatriate has the financial means to support their visiting family members during their stay in Qatar.
Required Profession for Family Visit Visa
While most expatriates meeting the salary criteria can apply for a family visit visa, certain professions listed on the Qatar ID may lead to application rejections.
Specifically, professions classified as labour-type can face challenges in the approval process. Nevertheless, there is a provision for reconsideration.
The Captain at the MOI Service Center has the authority to override such rejections, offering a second chance for applicants to make their case.
Family Members Eligible for Visit
Qatar’s family visit visa extends to various family members across three degrees of relation:
- First Degree: Spouses, children, parents
- Second Degree: Siblings, grandparents, grandchildren
- Third Degree: Nephews, nieces, and uncles/aunts from both paternal and maternal sides
This wide-ranging eligibility allows expatriates to maintain close family ties by hosting immediate and extended family members in Qatar.
Understanding Qatar Family Visit Visa
Understanding the intricacies of Qatar’s Family Visit Visa is essential for a hassle-free visit.
By familiarizing themselves with the fee structure, validity period, and extension procedures, visitors can ensure compliance with regulations and enjoy a memorable stay with their loved ones in Qatar.
Visa Fee Structure
The Qatar Family Visit Visa carries a fee of QAR 200 for a 30-day stay, with an option for extension at QAR 200 per month.
Additionally, a medical check-up for extension purposes incurs a cost of QAR 100.
Overstaying Penalties
For those who exceed their permitted stay, a fine of QAR 200 per day applies, emphasizing the importance of adhering to visa regulations.
Visa Validity and Extension
Initially issued for 30 days, the visa can be extended for spouses and children up to a total of 180 days and for other relatives up to 90 days.
However, extension beyond the 90-day mark is subject to confirmation by the Immigration Department, with the requirement of additional health insurance for the extended period.
Entry Period
Upon approval, the visa specifies a “visa valid till” date, allowing entry into Qatar within 90 days from the approval date.
This period is crucial to note, as visitors cannot utilize the visa beyond this timeframe.
Smooth Extension Process
To extend the visa for up to five months (after the initial one month), it’s advisable to confirm with the Immigration Department before purchasing additional insurance, ensuring a seamless extension process.
Applying for a Qatar Family Visit Visa
Applying for a Qatar Family Visit Visa has become simpler with the advent of the Metrash mobile app.
By following these steps, you can efficiently apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa online using the Metrash mobile app.
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded accurately and be prompt in completing the necessary payments and insurance purchase to facilitate a smooth visit for your family members.
Access Metrash2 App and Open the Visa Section
Start by opening the Metrash2 app on your mobile device and logging in. Within the app interface, locate and tap on the “Visa” icon.
Initiate Visa Application and Choose Family Visit
Proceed by clicking on the “Issue Visa” icon to begin the visa application process. Select the “Family Visit” option from the available visa types.
Select Application Type and Begin New Application
Make sure to choose the correct application type – “Family Visa Application,” not “Family Resident Application.”Initiate a new visa application by tapping on the designated button.
Input Visitor Details
Fill in all the required details of the visitor accurately, including gender, relation, nationality, date of birth, and passport details.
Validate Information and Upload Documents
Verify the accuracy of the provided information by clicking on the validation button. Ensure that all necessary documents are uploaded clearly and are readable. Combine multiple pages into a single JPG file when necessary.
Await Application Update
Keep an eye out for updates on your application status. Any discrepancies or missing documents will be notified for correction. Once approved, you’ll receive an application number.
Pay Visa Fee
Upon approval, proceed to pay the visa fee of QAR 200 online through the Metrash app.
Obtain Health Insurance
Following visa approval, ensure to purchase health insurance as per the regulations effective from April 2023.
Enter the visa number during the insurance purchase process for system updating. The visa can only be printed after insurance purchase.
Download and Send Visa Copy
Download the approved visa copy and forward it to the visitor for their travel arrangements.
By following these guidelines meticulously, applicants can successfully apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa online via the Metrash2 mobile app. This streamlined process offers convenience and efficiency for both applicants and visitors.
Checking Family Visit Visa Status
Checking the status of a family visit visa is simple and accessible. Users can conveniently track their application status through the Metrash app or visit the Ministry of Interior website.
By entering essential details such as the application number, application date, or sponsor’s QID number accurately, applicants can easily retrieve their visa status.
Converting Family Visit to Residence Visa in Qatar
Now that we have discussed everything related to the Family Visit Visa, let’s delve into understanding how to convert it into a Residence Permit in Qatar.
Expatriates relocating to Qatar often face the challenge of bringing their families to join them. While obtaining a family residence visa may seem daunting, there’s a practical solution to expedite the reunification process.
Many choose to initially bring their families on family visit visas, subsequently converting them to family residence visas.
Below we have mentioned how to transfer from a family visit visa to a residence permit in Qatar, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free relocation process for expatriates and their families.
Understanding the Process
Expatriate residents in Qatar who wish to sponsor their families for a residence permit must demonstrate six months of salary credit in their bank statements.
However, due to delays in processing family residence visas, many opt to bring their families on family visit visas initially, with the intention of converting them to residence permits later on.
Eligibility Requirements for Qatar Family Residence Visa
Sponsor Eligibility
To facilitate a smooth family relocation, the expatriate sponsor must meet certain criteria:
- Qatar Residence ID and Permanent Residency: The sponsor must possess a valid Qatar Residence ID and hold permanent residency status.
- Financial Stability: Demonstrating financial stability is crucial. Sponsors need to earn a minimum salary aligned with their profession.
- Accommodation: Providing suitable accommodation is necessary. This can be through certified rental contracts or employer-provided housing arrangements.
- Clean Record: Sponsors must maintain an impeccable record, devoid of conduct violations or legal transgressions.
- Background Verification: They must successfully pass stringent background verification checks.
Dependent Eligibility
Relatives wishing to join their sponsor must also meet specific requirements:
- Documented Relationships: They must substantiate their relationship through legally attested documents, such as marriage certificates for spouses, birth certificates for children under 21, and adoption papers or custody rulings for adopted or stepchildren.
- Exceptions: Certain exceptions may apply, such as securing special permissions for sons over 21 or married daughters.
- Medical Clearance: All applicants must undergo medical clearance to ensure adherence to Qatar’s public health standards.
Family Residence Visa Application Process in Qatar
Securing Entry Permit
Before bringing family members to Qatar, securing an entry permit is the crucial first step.
This permit grants pre-approved access for relatives and involves gathering essential documents like valid passport copies, the sponsor’s passport and Qatar ID, as well as attested marriage and birth certificates for dependents.
It’s vital to ensure clarity and accuracy, which can be achieved through professional translation services for certified English-Arabic versions of all documents.
Undergoing Medical Examination
Once your family arrives, they’ll have to undergo a mandatory medical screening at authorized Qatar Medical Commission clinics.
This screening is all about keeping everyone healthy and preventing the spread of diseases. So, make sure everyone brings their original passports, copies, your Qatar ID, and a way to pay.
Biometric Registration Process
At certain Ministry of Interior branches, you will undergo biometric registration. This involves fingerprinting and possibly iris scans to create a secure database.
Make sure that you bring all original documents such as passports, medical clearances, visa copies, and your Qatar ID. The forms you will fill out are in Arabic, so pay attention to each detail.
Issuance of Qatar ID Card
Finally, you can apply for Qatar ID Card in person at Ministry of Interior centers or use the Metrash2 app.
If you go in person, make sure you’ve got all your original documents, passport photos, and neatly filled-out forms.
Or, if you prefer the digital route, Metrash2 lets you upload scanned docs and digital pics. Once everything’s approved and paid for, you’ll get those Qatar ID cards in no time, giving your family all the perks of legal residency.
Step-by-Step Process
Paying Family Residence Visa Fee
When you’re notified that the visa’s ready, you can pay the Residence Permit visa fee of QAR 200 using the Metrash mobile app or at any MOI Service Centre. Once paid, you can print the visa from the MOI website.
Changing Visa Type
If you need to change the visa type, you can do it on Metrash or at any MOI Service Centre.
Just keep in mind that there is an extra fee if you want to change the visa type without leaving the country.
Updating Medical Test Result
If you have not already gone through the medical test for a visit visa extension, you’ll need to do a full medical test at the Medical Commission.
But if you’ve already done it, you’ll just need to visit the Medical Commission to update your medical status from a visit visa to a residence visa.
Fingerprinting Process
To get fingerprinted, head over to any MOI Service Centre (except Wadi Al Banat / Al Duhail). And don’t worry, kids under 15 don’t need to go through this step.
Applying for Qatar ID
To apply for a Residence Permit Card (Qatar ID), you can either go to an MOI Service Centre or use the Metrash2 app.
Make sure you’ve got all the required documents ready, including completed forms, your Qatar ID copy, everyone’s original passports, residence visa copy, medical receipt, visit to RP conversion receipt, and passport-size photos with a blue background.
Once you have paid the QAR 500 fee for the first year, then your Qatar ID cards will be printed within 5 minutes.
Essential Documents for Qatar Family Residence Visa
When applying for a family residence visa in Qatar, thorough preparation is required. The success of the application depends on the meticulous gathering of a diverse range of documents, each subject to strict attestation and translation requirements.
Passports: Ensure passports are valid for at least six months, featuring clear photographs and accurate personal information.
Visa Application Forms: Complete typed application forms on authorized letterheads in Arabic. Separate forms are necessary for sponsors and dependents.
Educational Qualifications: Provide attested copies of degree certificates or professional licenses.
Employment Contracts: Submit current labor contract copies, duly attested by the employer.
Marriage Proof: Include marriage certificates with certified English translations.
Birth Certificates: Provide children’s birth certificates clearly stating parental names.
Financial Statements: Present bank statements or salary slips to demonstrate a stable income.
Insurance Documents: Furnish proof of health or life insurance covering all applicants.
The attestation process may involve certification from home country embassies in Qatar, Qatar’s embassies abroad, the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and relevant administrative bodies.
Certified Arabic translations of all forms, letters, and statements by approved translators are equally essential to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and smooth processing of the visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can check your visa status through the Metrash app or by visiting the Ministry of Interior website and entering your application details.
The process for converting a family visit visa to a residence permit in Qatar involves securing entry permits, undergoing medical examinations, biometric registration, and obtaining Qatar ID cards for family members.
Sponsors must demonstrate financial stability, hold permanent residency status, provide suitable accommodation, maintain a clean record, and pass background verification checks.
Required documents include passports, visa application forms, educational qualifications, employment contracts, marriage certificates, birth certificates, financial statements, and insurance documents.
You need to gather all the essential documents such as valid passport copies, sponsor’s passport and Qatar ID, and attested marriage and birth certificates for dependents, and apply for an entry permit.
Family members must undergo mandatory medical screening at authorized Qatar Medical Commission clinics upon arrival in Qatar to ensure compliance with public health standards.
You can apply for Qatar ID cards in person at Ministry of Interior centers or through the Metrash2 app by providing all necessary documents and paying the required fees.
To Sum Up
Transitioning from a family visit visa to a residence permit in Qatar needs careful planning and following rules. If you’re an expatriate and you are planning to bring your family, you must meet specific requirements: enough money, a clean record, and suitable housing.
The process involves getting entry permits, having medical checks, registering biometric data, and getting Qatar ID cards. Each step requires precise attention and correct documents, like passports and financial papers.
Getting documents attested adds more steps, needing approval from different authorities and translators. Even though it’s challenging, getting a family residence visa in Qatar is doable with proper preparation.
By following the steps and providing the needed documents, you can make moving to Qatar with your family smooth and trouble-free, enjoying the benefits of legal residency.
