‘Hayya With Me’ visa to enter Qatar Ended

Did you know the ‘Hayya With Me’ visa, a key entry pass for visitors to Qatar, has officially ended? If you planned to visit using this visa, it’s important to know the updated rules. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) set the final entry date as February 10, 2024, with the stay validity extended until February 24, 2024. But what’s next for travelers wanting to explore Qatar? Let’s break it down for you.

Hayya With Me’ visa to enter Qatar Ended. [Quick Answer]

• The ‘Hayya With Me’ visa ended on February 10, 2024.
• Valid stays were extended to February 24, 2024.
• Travelers must now apply for a new entry visa.
• Options include Tourist Visa, GCC Resident Visa, Visa with ETA, and Companion Visa.
• Applications are available on the Hayya to Qatar App or official website.

What Was the ‘Hayya With Me’ Visa?

The ‘Hayya With Me’ visa was a special entry permit introduced during the FIFA World Cup 2022. It allowed fans and visitors to easily access Qatar, simplifying travel during one of the world’s biggest sporting events. This initiative aimed to boost international participation and provide a hassle-free travel experience.

Key Features of the ‘Hayya With Me’ Visa

1. Purpose: Facilitated entry for World Cup attendees.
2. Validity: Extended till February 24, 2024, for visa holders.
3. Access: Allowed multiple entries to Qatar during the validity period.
4. Ease of Application: Managed via the Hayya to Qatar App or official website.

End of the ‘Hayya With Me’ Visa Program

As of February 10, 2024, Qatar officially stopped allowing entry under the ‘Hayya With Me’ visa. The Ministry of Interior notified users of the program’s conclusion through email, stating the need for new visa applications for future visits.

Key Dates to Remember

• February 10, 2024: Last entry allowed with the ‘Hayya With Me’ visa.
• February 24, 2024: Extended stay deadline for existing visa holders.

This marks a shift in Qatar’s travel policies, emphasizing the need for alternative entry methods for tourists and visitors.

What to Do After the ‘Hayya With Me’ Visa Ended?

If you’re planning to visit Qatar now, you’ll need to explore other visa options. The Hayya portal offers several alternatives to meet various travel needs.

1. Tourist Visa (A1)

• Open to all nationalities.
• Allows entry for tourism purposes.
• Requires a QR100 fee and a passport valid for at least three months.
• Applicants must provide proof of accommodation.

2. GCC Resident Visa (A2)

• Designed for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
• Suitable for individuals from all professions.
• Requires a QR100 fee, passport validity of three months, and accommodation verification.

3. Visa with ETA (A3)

• Available for holders of valid visas or residence permits from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Schengen area, Australia, or New Zealand.
• Requires a QR100 fee and three months passport validity.

4. Visa for Companion of GCC Citizen (A4)

• Applicable to individuals traveling with a GCC citizen sponsor.
• Requires a QR100 fee, proof of accommodation, and a passport valid for three months.

Why Did Qatar End the ‘Hayya With Me’ Visa?

The program served its purpose during the FIFA World Cup 2022, attracting millions of visitors. However, as the event concluded and Qatar transitioned back to regular tourism policies, the need for a dedicated World Cup visa diminished. The end of this visa program simplifies Qatar’s travel framework and aligns it with standard international practices.

Alternatives for Travelers Post-‘Hayya With Me’ Visa

How to Apply for a New Visa

1. Visit the official Hayya to Qatar App or website.
2. Choose the appropriate visa category (e.g., Tourist Visa, GCC Resident Visa).
3. Fill out the online application form.
4. Pay the necessary fees (typically QR100).
5. Provide supporting documents like passport copies and proof of accommodation.

Benefits of the New Visa Categories

• Streamlined Process: Faster application and approval.
• Flexibility: Options tailored for tourists, GCC residents, and companions of GCC citizens.
• Extended Validity: Stay periods accommodating longer visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I still use my ‘Hayya With Me’ visa to enter Qatar?

No, the visa program ended on February 10, 2024.

2. What happens if I stayed beyond the extended validity?

Overstaying could lead to penalties or restrictions on future travel.

3. How do I know which visa is right for me?

Check the visa categories on the Hayya portal and choose based on your nationality, travel purpose, and residency status.

4. Are there additional fees for alternative visas?

Yes, most visas require a QR100 fee upon approval.

5. Can I reapply for a new Hayya visa?

Yes, applications are open via the Hayya to Qatar App or website.