Qatar visa requirements for South African citizens

Would you like to immerse yourself in Qatar's vibrant cultural heritage by exploring destinations like the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, and Katara Cultural Village? Marvel at the contemporary architectural marvels in Qatar, including iconic skyscrapers like The Torch Doha, Aspire Tower, and the breathtaking skyline of Doha's West Bay area. Additionally, indulge in the allure of Qatar's desert through activities such as dune bashing, camel rides, and desert safaris. The UNESCO-recognized natural reserve, Khor Al Adaid, presents a distinctive landscape.

The Qatari Government has introduced progressive policies to enhance the tourism sector. The Qatar eVisa is an excellent initiative for international enthusiasts of this Middle Eastern country. Explore this article to gain insights into Qatar visa requirements for South Africans, including the application process and associated fees.

Qatar visa for South Africans

Do South Africans require a Qatar visa for entry?

Indeed, South Africans must obtain a valid visa to legally enter Qatar as South Africa is not among the countries exempt from Qatar visa requirements. South Africans can conveniently apply for a Qatar visa through our quick, hassle-free digital application form.

Types of Qatar visa available for South Africans

South African citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Qatar. Depending on the purpose of visit, several types of Qatar visa are available for South African passport holders:

• Tourist visa: Ideal for leisure travel, valid for 30 days and extendable once. Requires confirmed accommodation and return ticket.
• Business visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or short-term assignments. Usually valid for up to 30 days and issued with company sponsorship.
• Work visa: Required for employment in Qatar. Must be arranged through a Qatari employer who sponsors the visa and residence permit.
• Family visit visa: Allows South Africans to visit relatives living in Qatar. Valid for one to three months and extendable.
• Transit visa: For layovers longer than five hours. Valid for up to 96 hours.

All visas can be applied for online through the official Qatar Immigration Service website.

What is a Qatar eVisa for South Africans?

The Qatar eVisa is a digital travel authorization that allows visitors to enter the country for tourism and to spend time with friends and family. The entire eVisa application process can be completed online, avoiding the need for Qatar embassy or consulate in South Africa visits.

Qatar eVisa validity: How long is the Qatar eVisa valid?

Qatar eVisa for South Africans is a single entry visa that permits a single journey to Qatar. A new visa application is necessary if you wish to leave Qatar and return.

The Qatar eVisa must be utilized within 90 days of issuance and grants a maximum stay of 30 days per entry into the country.

What are the permissible uses of the Qatar eVisa?

The Qatar eVisa exclusively grants permission for tourism or visiting friends and family.

What activities are prohibited with the Qatar eVisa?

The Qatar eVisa does not permit:

• Engaging in business activities.
• Working or studying.
• Living or residing in the country.

Qatar visa requirements for South Africans

To complete the Qatar online visa application process, South Africans need to submit the following Qatar visa requirements for South Africans:

• A valid passport: Ensure that your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your scheduled arrival in Qatar.
• Passport-size photo: Use our cost-effective digital photo service to obtain a suitable photo from your home conveniently.
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking reservations in Qatar.
• Payment methods: A credit/debit card for visa payment.
• Return flight tickets: Presenting this documentation serves as evidence of your planned return to your home country.

Qatar visa requirements for South Africans

How to initiate a Qatar visa application from South Africa?

We present a simple process for Qatar visa for South Africans that can be accomplished in a few uncomplicated steps, requiring less than 15 minutes of your time!

• Step 1 - Fill out the necessary travel information and provide your basic details using the online application form on our website. Choose your preferred processing time.
• Step 2 - Review your information and pay the visa fee using a credit/debit card.
• Step 3 - Upload the required documents, complete any necessary information, and submit your application!

That's all! Anticipate receiving your eVisa and prepare for your journey to Qatar within the selected timeframe. Your approved travel document will be sent to you via email. We recommend printing a hard copy and maintaining a digital copy on an electronic device, just in case.

Qatar eVisa costs and processing times

There are two types of Qatar visa fees that South African applicants must cover: the government fee and service fees.

We offer the following visa processing services, and it's essential to consider because this impacts your visa service fee:

• Normal: Ideal for those seeking an e-visa within 3 business days.
• Urgent: Suitable for those desiring an e-Visa within 24 hours.
• Super Urgent: Designed for those needing an e-Visa within 5 business hours.

Regarding payment methods, we accept electronic payments (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, PayPal) and bank transfers.

Qatar visa fees for South Africans

FAQs for a Seamless Qatar Visa Application Process for South Africans

What if I possess two passports?

Ensure you use only your national passport during the visa application process. Once approved, your Qatar visa is electronically linked to your passport. If your passport is lost or stolen, you must reapply for a new Qatar visa.

Who needs the Qatar eVisa to visit the country?

The Qatar eVisa is available to citizens from over 200 countries. To confirm your eligibility, utilize our convenient Qatar Visa Check Requirements Session.

Residents of Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are exempt from applying for the Qatar Tourist Visa.

Is it necessary for minors to apply for the Qatar eVisa?

Yes, minors are required to apply. Children from eligible countries must also complete the Qatar Visa application online for entry.

Do I need this visa to transit in Qatar?

A Qatar Transit Visa is unnecessary for passengers who do not intend to exit Doha Airport's transit zone. Passengers cannot stay in the transit area for more than 24 hours between flights, even using the airport's transit hotel.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine or vaccination certificate to enter Qatar?

No, it is not necessary. Currently, possessing a COVID-19 vaccination certificate is not a requirement for entry into Qatar.

However, we highly recommend applicants purchase Travel Insurance for their security when traveling abroad. Travel Insurance covers medical expenses, lost baggage, and natural disasters and provides protective benefits from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Can I check the status of my Qatar eVisa?

Indeed, once you have applied for a visa through Qatar Immigration Services, you can quickly check your visa status through our system.

In conclusion

South Africans are eligible to get the Qatar visa; there are multiple options including getting the visa to enter the country as a tourist, business, or to reside there on long-term basis. The holders of South African passports will have to obtain a visa in advance. The easiest and most effective way is the official Qatar Immigration Service in which South African citizens can conveniently use the internet to apply online to a Qatar visa. Make sure that documents are ready and make sure that there are recent requirements before traveling.