Residence Card to Replace Identification Card

Qatar

Starting June 15, the Ministry of Interior will issue new residence cards for foreign residents.  The residence cards will replace existing identification cards and passport stickers and will serve as sole proof of identity and residency in Qatar. The residence cards will be valid for one, two, three or five years, depending on certain circumstances.

The cards will be issued to new residence permit applicants as well as current residents who obtained a new passport, including children under the age of 16, and subsequently for those renewing their existing residence permits.

Residents will also be able to choose a smart residence card, which will offer the same services as the smart identification card, including e-Gate services, which expedites travel for frequent travelers.

What This Means for Foreign Nationals

The new regulation should benefit foreign residents in Qatar, who now only need one document as a proof of identity and residency.  Traditional residence permit stickers will no longer be endorsed on passports. Foreign nationals will be required to carry their new residence cards at all times and when travelling internationally.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].

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