- The Mustaqel visa programme offers a five-year residency visa to attract global talent and enhance Qatar’s labour market, focusing on entrepreneurs and skilled professionals.
- The Entrepreneur Visa requires business model endorsement from a Qatari incubator and provides an endorsement code for the application.
- The Talent Visa targets skilled individuals in arts, entertainment, sports, and technology, who need a talent endorsement from a relevant Qatari entity.
- Applicants must submit documents like a passport copy, degree certificate, police clearance, and proof of experience, with the visa granting residency benefits and family visa requests.
- Administrative costs are 5,000 Qatari Riyals for the Entrepreneur Visa and 4,000 Qatari Riyals for the Talent Visa, with refunds for rejected applications.
The Mustaqel visa programme, one of Jusour’s most significant initiatives, aims to attract global talent to enhance Qatar’s vibrant labour market.
This five-year residency visa is designed to draw entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals from diverse fields to contribute to Qatar’s dynamic economy.
Programme Overview
The Qatar Manpower Solutions Company, also known as Jusour, is spearheading the Mustaqel residency visa programme.
This initiative offers a five-year residency permit with the possibility of renewal, divided into two main categories: the Entrepreneur Visa and the Talent Visa.
The application process for this visa is set to commence in the upcoming months, although a specific date has not yet been announced.
Entrepreneur Visa
The Entrepreneur Visa is tailored for business owners, particularly those managing small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
- To qualify, applicants must have their business models endorsed by a recognized business incubator based in Qatar.
Successful applicants receive an ‘endorsement code,’ which is crucial for completing the online application form. This visa is designed to support and encourage entrepreneurship, fostering innovation and business growth within Qatar.
Talent Visa
The Talent Visa targets skilled individuals in various fields such as arts, entertainment, sports, and technology. Applicants must obtain a talent endorsement from a relevant Qatari entity to receive the necessary ‘endorsement code’ for their application.
This category aims to attract professionals who can significantly contribute to Qatar’s cultural and technological advancements.
Application Requirements and Benefits
Applicants for both visa categories need to provide several documents, including a passport copy, degree certificate, police clearance certificate, and proof of experience.
Besides the opportunity to live and work in Qatar, the Mustaqel visa also grants individuals the right to own assets, enjoy residency benefits, and request visas for their family members.
Administrative Costs and Refund Policy
The administrative cost for the Entrepreneur Visa is 5,000 Qatari Riyals ($1,373), while the Talent Visa costs 4,000 Qatari Riyals ($1,098).
If an application is rejected, the applicant will receive a refund of the administrative fee, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Role of Jusour and Qatar National Vision 2030
Jusour, a private joint stock entity owned by the Qatari government, is dedicated to enhancing the national talent pool, driving economic growth, and supporting the developmental goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030.
This vision aims for successful economic diversification beyond the energy sector, fostering a sustainable and knowledge-based economy.
Economic Impact
A recent report by the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) highlighted the positive momentum in Qatar’s non-energy private sector.
According to Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, CEO of QFC, the wholesale, retail, and services sectors continued to drive expansion in May, with financial services remaining a strong performer.
The Mustaqel visa programme aligns with these economic trends, aiming to attract top talent and entrepreneurs who can further bolster these sectors.
The Mustaqel visa programme represents a strategic effort by Qatar to attract and retain global talent, thereby supporting its long-term economic and developmental goals.
By offering a structured and supportive pathway for entrepreneurs and skilled professionals, Qatar continues to position itself as a hub for innovation, business, and cultural development.