Qatar Family Visit Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Planning to bring your loved ones to Qatar? The Family Visit Visa is the official permit that allows spouses, children, and close relatives to stay with you for a limited period. Many expats use it when they want their family to visit without applying for a long-term residence permit. The process involves eligibility checks, salary and housing requirements, and the right set of documents. In this guide, you’ll learn every step, from applying through the Metrash app to extending the visa, explained in simple terms, so you avoid delays and rejections.

What is the Qatar Family Visit Visa?

The Qatar Family Visit Visa is a short-term visa that lets expats invite their close relatives to stay with them in Qatar. It is usually granted to the spouse, children, or parents of a resident. In some cases, other relatives like brothers, sisters, or in-laws may also qualify, but the approval depends on the Ministry of Interior.

This visa is not the same as a Family Residence Visa. A residence visa allows your family to live with you in Qatar long term, while the Family Visit Visa is temporary, often issued for 30 to 90 days with an option to extend. Many residents choose this visa when they want to host family members for a short period for holidays, medical support, or special occasions.

Qatar Family Visit Visa Requirements (2025)

Applying for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar is not only about filling forms; it’s about proving that you can host and support your family during their stay. The Ministry of Interior (MOI) looks closely at financial stability, housing, and legal documents before granting approval. Let’s go through the key requirements in detail:

1. Salary Requirement

The first filter for approval is your income. The sponsoring resident must earn a monthly salary that meets MOI’s guidelines.

• In most cases, the minimum salary is QAR 5,000.
• For sponsoring spouse and children, some applications require QAR 7,500 to QAR 10,000.
• Higher salaries increase the chance of approval, especially for extended family like parents or in-laws.

👉 Why this matters: Qatar wants to ensure that visitors will not face financial hardship and that the sponsor can cover housing, food, medical care, and other needs.

2. Accommodation Requirement

Housing plays a big role in approval. Authorities want proof that your family has a safe and suitable place to stay.

• You may need a tenancy contract (attested by the Municipality).
• If your company provides housing, a company accommodation letter is required.
• In some cases, a housing certificate stamped by authorities is mandatory.

Pro Tip: Make sure the name on your housing contract matches your QID. If it doesn’t, provide an employer letter confirming your residence.

3. Age Limit

Qatar applies certain age limits to prevent misuse of the visa system.

• Children under 18 years are eligible under the parent’s sponsorship.
• For parents, there may be stricter checks, especially if they are elderly.
• Exceptions are possible, but they usually require extra documentation or justification.

Why this matters: Authorities use age rules to manage health insurance risks and ensure the visa is used for genuine family visits.

4. Required Documents

Submitting the right documents is the backbone of your application. Missing even one paper can delay or reject your visa.
Here’s the usual checklist:

• Valid passport copies of both sponsor and family member (at least 6 months validity).
• Passport-sized photos with white background (newly taken).
• Marriage certificate attested by relevant authorities (for spouse).
• Birth certificates for children, attested if issued outside Qatar.
• Sponsor’s QID copy.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer, if required.
• A copy of the employment contract or salary certificate (to confirm income).

Pro Tip: Always keep multiple copies, as immigration officers may ask for duplicates.

5. Health Insurance Requirement

From February 2023, Qatar made health insurance compulsory for all visitors, including family members.

• Insurance must be purchased from MOI-approved providers.
• It should cover emergencies, hospital stays, and basic healthcare for the entire visa period.
• Without valid insurance, entry may be denied at the airport.

Real Example: Many families buy a basic health plan (QAR 50–100 per month) just for visa approval, but it’s smarter to choose a wider coverage in case of emergencies.

Eligibility for Qatar Family Visit Visa

Not everyone can apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa. The Ministry of Interior (MOI) has set clear rules about who is eligible, depending on the sponsor’s status and the relationship with family members. Understanding this saves time and avoids rejection.

Who Can Apply?

The visa is mainly for immediate family members, but under certain conditions, other relatives may also be considered.

• Spouse – Husband or wife can be invited if the sponsor meets the salary and housing requirements.
• Children – Usually limited to children below 18 years. For older children, special approvals may be needed.
• Parents – Both mother and father can be invited. Some cases require extra documents to prove dependency.
• Other relatives – Siblings, in-laws, or extended family may apply, but approvals are more selective and often need higher salaries.

Example: An engineer in Qatar earning QAR 12,000 per month has a higher chance of bringing parents or siblings compared to a worker earning QAR 5,000.

Who Cannot Apply?

There are limits to prevent misuse of the system.

• Very distant relatives (like cousins, uncles, or aunts) are generally not accepted.
• Friends and non-relatives cannot be sponsored.
• Applicants without valid housing or income proof will not qualify, even for close family.

Pro Tip: If you want to bring extended family, apply during periods when MOI relaxes rules, like national festivals or humanitarian cases.

Why Eligibility Rules Matter

Qatar uses these rules to:

• Control the number of visitors
• Ensure families are properly supported
• Avoid fake sponsorships
• Protect public services like healthcare and housing

Qatar Family Visit Visa Application Process

Applying for a Qatar Family Visit Visa can be done both online and offline. The government of Qatar has simplified the process in recent years, but applicants still need to carefully follow the steps to avoid delays or rejections. Below are the two main ways to apply, along with a complete step-by-step breakdown.

Online Application (via Metrash2 App)

The Metrash2 mobile app is the most convenient way to apply for a Qatar Family Visit Visa. It allows expatriates to submit applications, upload documents, and track the visa status without visiting any government office.

Steps for Online Application:

1. Login to Metrash2 using your QID and mobile number registered with your Qatar ID.
2. Select “Visa Services” → “Issue Visa” → “Family Visit.”
3. Fill in the visa application form with details of your family member (name, nationality, passport number, relationship, etc.).
4. Upload required documents (passport copy, QID copy, marriage/birth certificate, etc.).
5. Pay the visa application fee online.
6. Submit and wait for approval – you will get notifications through the app.

Benefit: No need to stand in queues at the Immigration Department.
Tracking: Applicants can check updates directly within the app.

Offline Application (through Immigration Department)

If you prefer traditional methods or face difficulties with the app, you can apply directly at the Immigration Department (MOI).

Steps for Offline Application:

1. Visit the Visa Services Section of the MOI.
2. Collect the Family Visit Visa application form from the counter.
3. Fill in the form and attach all required documents (attested marriage certificate, birth certificate, passport copy, QID copy, photographs).
4. Submit the form at the designated counter and pay the application fee.
5. Keep the receipt to track your visa application status.

Friendly Tip: Applying offline may take longer compared to the Metrash2 app, so it’s usually recommended only when online services are not available.

Step-by-Step Guide (Application → Approval → Visa Issuance → Entry → Extension)

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the entire process from start to finish:

1. Application – Submit the form either online (Metrash2) or offline (MOI).
2. Approval – Immigration authorities review the documents. Approval time usually ranges between 2–5 working days.
3. Visa Issuance – Once approved, the visa is issued electronically and can be downloaded from Metrash2 or collected from MOI.
4. Entry into Qatar – The family member must enter Qatar within the validity period mentioned in the visa.
5. Visa Extension – The visa can typically be extended for up to 6 months for immediate family members (spouse, children, parents) and 3 months for other relatives.

Qatar Family Visit Visa Fee & Costs

When planning a family visit to Qatar, it’s important to understand all the costs involved so you can budget effectively. The visa is not just about the initial application fee, there are additional charges such as extension fees and medical insurance costs. Let’s break them down:

Application Fee

The Qatar Family Visit Visa comes with a standard application fee of QAR 200 (approx. $55). This fee is paid during the submission of your application through the MOI portal or at a service center. The payment is usually made online, and it is non-refundable, even if your application gets rejected.

Extension Fee

The Family Visit Visa is typically granted for 1 month initially, but it can be extended for up to 6 months (in some cases 1 year for immediate family like spouse and children).

• The extension fee is QAR 200 per month.
• Payment can be made online through the Ministry of Interior’s website or mobile app.
• Extensions should be applied before the visa expires to avoid penalties or overstaying fines.

Example: If you plan to extend the visa for 3 extra months, you will need to pay QAR 600 in extension fees.

Medical Insurance Cost

Since February 2023, Qatar made mandatory medical insurance a requirement for all visitors. The insurance covers basic health services and emergencies during the stay.

• The minimum insurance cost is QAR 50 per month (around $14).
• Insurance must be purchased from an approved Qatari insurance provider.
• Without valid insurance, your visa extension may not be approved.

Important: Always review the insurance policy details to understand what is covered (hospital visits, accidents, etc.), so your family members are fully protected.

Validity of Qatar Family Visit Visa

Initial Duration (30/90 Days):
The Qatar Family Visit Visa is usually issued for 30 days or 90 days, depending on the applicant’s request and approval. For short stays, many applicants receive the 30-day visa. However, if you provide strong justification (such as family ties and financial capability), you may be granted a 90-day visa from the start.

Extension Rules & Maximum Period:
The Family Visit Visa is extendable in most cases. A 30-day visa can be extended up to 6 months (180 days) for immediate family members like spouse, children, and parents. For other relatives, the maximum allowed stay is usually 90 days only. To extend, the sponsor must apply through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal or visit an MOI service center before the visa expires.

Important Note:
Overstaying the visa is a serious issue in Qatar and leads to daily fines (around QAR 200 per day). So always make sure to apply for an extension before the visa expiry date.

Checking Qatar Family Visit Visa Status

After applying for a Qatar Family Visit Visa, it is very important to track the application status. This ensures you know whether the visa is under review, approved, rejected, or requires additional documents. Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) provides two reliable methods to check the status: the MOI website and the Metrash2 mobile application.

Online through MOI Website

The MOI Qatar website is the most commonly used method for checking visa status. It is accessible worldwide, so even family members outside Qatar can check the application progress.

Steps to check visa status via MOI website:

1. Visit the MOI portal.
2. Go to the “Inquiries” section from the homepage.
3. Select “Visa Services” and then click on “Visa Inquiry & Printing.”
4. Enter the visa application number or passport number along with the nationality.
5. Fill in the captcha/security code and click on “Submit.”
6. The system will show the current status of your application – such as under review, approved, waiting for payment, or rejected.

Metrash2 Application Method

The Metrash2 app is a convenient mobile service by MOI Qatar. It allows residents to perform almost all immigration-related tasks directly from their smartphones.

How to check via Metrash2:

1. Download and install the Metrash2 app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Log in using your QID (Qatar ID) and registered mobile number.
3. From the home screen, go to “Visa Services.”
4. Select “Visa Inquiry.”
5. Enter the passport number or application number of your family member.
6. The application status will appear instantly, along with any further instructions.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

When applying for a Qatar Family Visit Visa, even small mistakes can cause Qatar visa rejection. Understanding these reasons in advance helps applicants prepare thoroughly and avoid delays. Below are some of the most common causes:

1. Incomplete Documentation

Many applications get rejected simply because applicants fail to attach all required documents. Missing copies of passports, marriage/birth certificates, or the host’s QID can lead to immediate refusal. Always double-check the checklist before submission and ensure documents are clear, translated (if necessary), and up to date.

2. Salary or Accommodation Not Meeting Requirements

Qatar sets specific eligibility criteria for sponsors. If the sponsoring family member does not meet the minimum salary requirement or fails to provide proof of adequate accommodation, the visa application may be rejected. Authorities want to ensure that visiting family members are financially supported during their stay.

3. Errors in Application Form

Even minor mistakes like spelling errors in names, incorrect passport numbers, or mismatched dates can trigger a rejection. Since the process is digital, the system immediately flags inconsistencies. Always review the application form multiple times before submission to avoid such errors.

4. Expired or Invalid Documents

Submitting expired passports, outdated QIDs, or unverified certificates is another major reason for rejection. The authorities are strict about document validity, so applicants should ensure everything is renewed before applying.

5. Previous Overstay or Immigration Issues

If the applicant or the sponsor has a history of overstaying in Qatar, unpaid fines, or other immigration violations, the application may be refused. Clearing any pending penalties and maintaining a clean immigration record is crucial.

How to Extend Qatar Family Visit Visa

Extending a Qatar family visit visa is a common requirement for many visitors, especially those who wish to spend more time with their loved ones. The process is simple if you follow the official steps and prepare all the required documents properly. Below is a detailed guide.

Step-by-Step Process to Extend the Visa

1. Log in to Metrash2 App
   • Download and open the Metrash2 app on your mobile.
   • Sign in with your QID and password.
2. Go to Visa Services
   • From the main menu, select Visa Services → Visa Renewal.
3. Select the Visa
   • Enter the visa number of your family member whose visa you want to extend.
   • The system will display their current visa details.
4. Pay the Extension Fee
   • Visa extension fees must be paid online through a debit/credit card.
   • The standard cost is QAR 200 per month per person.
5. Confirmation and Approval
   • Once payment is complete, you will receive an SMS confirming the visa extension.
   • The extension is usually approved immediately if all requirements are fulfilled.

Required Documents for Extension

To successfully extend a Qatar family visit visa, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Valid Passport Copy of the visitor (must be valid for at least 6 months).
• Current Visa Copy showing entry details.
• Return Flight Ticket (sometimes required to ensure compliance).
• Health Insurance covering the extended stay (mandatory as per new rules).
• Sponsor’s QID Copy (the Qatari resident or expatriate inviting the family).

What to Do if Qatar Family Visit Visa Gets Rejected?

Getting a rejection for a Qatar Family Visit Visa can be disappointing, but it doesn’t always mean the end of your plans. Many applicants succeed on their second attempt by carefully addressing the reasons for rejection. Here’s what you should do:

Reapply Process for Qatar Family Visit Visa

If your visa was rejected, you can reapply after correcting the issues mentioned in the rejection note. Here are the steps:

1. Review rejection reason on the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal.
2. Correct the mistake – for example, attach a missing document or update your passport if it’s expiring.
3. Re-upload documents with clear scans and proper attestations (if required).
4. Submit a new application through the MOI portal or the Metrash2 app.

Appeal Options in Case of Rejection

If you strongly believe your application was wrongly rejected, you can file an appeal:

• Visit the Immigration Department (Gharaffa Office in Doha) with all documents.
• Request for manual review by an officer.
• Carry supporting evidence (like updated salary certificate, corrected family documents, or employer’s letter).
• In some cases, your employer or sponsor can also write an official request letter to support your appeal.

Tips to Avoid Rejection in the Future

• Always ensure documents are clear, valid, and attested.
• Double-check that names, dates, and details match across all papers (passport, QID, marriage/birth certificates).
• Keep your passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Meet the minimum salary requirement and attach a salary certificate.
• Apply during working days and avoid peak times when system errors are more frequent.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting your Qatar Family Visit Visa approved even after a rejection.

FAQs About Qatar Family Visit Visa

Q1. Who is eligible for a family visit visa in Qatar?
Immediate family members of a Qatar resident (such as spouse, children, and parents) are eligible for a family visit visa. The sponsor must have a valid Qatar ID, a stable income, and suitable accommodation to host the family.

Q2. What is the cost of a family visa in Qatar?
The standard fee for a Qatar family visit visa is QR 200 for the first month. If the visa is extended, additional charges of QR 200 per month apply. Medical check-up fees may also be required for long-term stays.

Q3. How to apply for a Qatar visit visa from Pakistan?
You can apply online through the Metrash2 app or visit the Ministry of Interior (MOI) service centers in Qatar. The sponsor in Qatar must upload required documents (passport copies, Qatar ID, marriage/birth certificates) and pay the visa fee.

Q4. How many days does it take for visit visa approval in Qatar?
Approval time varies but usually takes 5 to 7 working days. However, in peak seasons or if additional verification is required, it may take longer.

Q6. What is the invitation letter for Qatar visit visa?
An invitation letter is a document provided by the Qatar resident (sponsor) stating they will host and take responsibility for the visitor. It is often required to strengthen the visa application and is usually written in Arabic.

Q7. How much is the penalty for overstaying in Qatar?
Overstaying a visit visa in Qatar results in a fine of QR 200 per day. It is advised to renew or exit before the visa expires to avoid penalties.

Q8. How to check family visit visa status in Qatar?
You can check the visa status online through the MOI Qatar website or by using the Metrash2 mobile app, where you enter your application number or passport details.

Q9. How to apply for a visit visa?
A visit visa can be applied for by the Qatar resident through the MOI portal or Metrash2 app. Required documents include a copy of the visitor’s passport, the sponsor’s Qatar ID, and supporting relationship documents.

Q10. How many countries can I visit with Qatar ID?
A Qatar ID allows you to travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access to several countries, mainly in the GCC (such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait). Access depends on your nationality, so always check the latest travel requirements before booking.

Conclusion

Applying for a Qatar family visit visa is a straightforward process if you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare the right documents, and follow the official steps. The visa allows families to reunite and spend quality time together while enjoying Qatar’s vibrant culture, modern lifestyle, and hospitality. Understanding the fees, penalties, and application methods in advance will save you from unnecessary delays or issues.

From my personal experience, applying online through the Metrash2 app was much smoother and quicker than expected. I received approval within a few working days, which made the whole process stress-free.