Doha, September 13, 2026: Qatar's Ministry of Interior (MOI) has simplified the visa extension process for travelers, including those on on-arrival visas, by allowing them to renew or extend their stay directly via the official website, moi.gov.qa. Visitors are no longer required to visit the General Directorate of Passports or service centers to process these extensions.
- Visitors can now extend visas online at moi.gov.qa without visiting service centers.
- Health insurance is mandatory for stays over thirty days.
- Indian residents in GCC countries can get and extend on-arrival visas under specific rules.
- Overstaying without a valid extension incurs a fine of QR200 per day up to QR12,000.
To initiate an extension, users should navigate to the 'Inquiries' section on the MOI website, select 'Visa Services,' and proceed to 'Visa Extension' followed by 'Inquiry and Extension.' Users may be required to provide visa details, sponsor or representative IDs, and application dates.
Prescribed fees can be paid via electronic payment after verifying eligibility. Travelers staying longer than 30 days are mandated to maintain health insurance from a Ministry of Public Health-registered insurer. While insurance can be arranged upon arrival, it is recommended to secure coverage prior to travel. The online system may require confirmation of this insurance during the extension process.
For Indian residents living in the GCC—specifically UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—on-arrival visas are available for 30 days for a fee of QR100, provided they meet specific profession criteria and possess a residence permit valid for at least three months. These visas may be extended for up to three additional months at a rate of QR100 per month, though users must verify final fees on the portal. Travelers must have a confirmed round-trip ticket, accommodation details, and meet passport validity requirements. Indian passport holders are advised to verify their specific entry category—whether visa-on-arrival, visa-free entry, or Hayya e-visa—via the 'Visit Qatar' official visa checker, as eligibility varies by travel profile.
Overstaying a visa without a valid extension incurs a fine of QR200 per day, with the maximum penalty set at QR12,000. Visitors are cautioned to use only the official MOI website for payments and to avoid unofficial agents or social media entities promising 'visa extension guarantees.' Required documentation includes passport details, current entry permit, contact or sponsor information, return travel plans, and valid health insurance.
