Qatar Immigration Services

​Qatar's immigration system provides limited options for employers of foreign nationals, and immigration laws can be vague, which leads to a high level of discretion at each step of the process.​ Requirements, processing times, employment eligibility, and benefits for accompanying family members vary by visa classification.​​

 

Work - Business Visas allow an initial stay of up to 30 days, with two 30-day extensions available at the Qatari authorities’ discretion for a total stay of up to 90 days. Qatar is unique in that hands-on work activities are permitted in business visitor status.​

 

All individuals wishing to seek employment in Qatar must secure a Work Visa and Residence Permit through the sponsorship of a Qatari host entity. If the sponsoring entity is established in Qatar mainland, a labor quota Block Visa must be obtained. The Block Visa specifies the number of visas awarded for individuals of a specified nationality and gender for a defined job title. Once a Block Visa that matches a candidate's profile — based on job title, nationality, and gender — is available, a Work Visa, valid for up to 180 days for entry to Qatar, is issued. Extensions are possible. Block Visas are not required in free zones.​

 

Note that nationals of the following countries may be considered restricted, and their work authorization applications will be reviewed on a discretionary basis: Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Palestine, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Vietnam, and Yemen. Affected nationalities may change frequently and without notice. Additionally, if operating in one of Qatar's free trade zones or free trade zone-like areas, the Department of Labour​ is not involved in the work permit process, and the requirements may be more lenient.​

 

Detailed Immigration Snapshots, Document Lists and Process Guides are available to clients on request.