Dreaming of a career in Qatar’s thriving economy? With 95% of its workforce comprising international talent, Qatar offers vast opportunities across sectors like construction, healthcare, and technology 3. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate the work visa process:
🛂 Who Can Apply?
- Foreign nationals with a valid job offer from a Qatari employer.
- Applicants must be ≥18 years old with relevant qualifications/experience.
- Medical fitness is mandatory (no communicable diseases like TB/hepatitis) 610.
📝 Document Checklist
Prepare these essentials:
| Document Type | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid ≥6 months, clear copies of bio page |
| Job Offer | Signed contract detailing role, salary, duration |
| Educational Certificates | Attested degrees/diplomas |
| Medical Reports | Pre-departure health certificate + tests for HIV/TB/hepatitis |
| Photos | 4+ recent passport-sized photos (white background) |
| Police Clearance | Certificate from home country 2610 |
💰 Expenses Breakdown
- Work Visa Fee: QAR 200 (application)
- Residence Permit: QAR 500
- Medical Tests: ~QAR 300–500
- Total Estimate: QAR 1,000–1,200 (typically covered by employer) 31011.
✅ Step-by-Step Application Process
Employer Preparation:
- Register with MOI: Company registers with Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI).
- Apply for Work Permits: Submit employee details via Metrash portal for Ministry of Labour approval 23.
Employee Process:
- Entry Visa Issuance: Employer submits documents to MOI; you receive entry visa.
- Travel to Qatar: Enter within 1–3 months of visa issuance.
- Medical Exam: Complete tests at approved centers within 7 days of arrival.
- Biometrics: Provide fingerprints/photos at CEID centers.
- Residence Permit: Employer applies; you receive RP (work ID) within 1–2 weeks 2611.
⚠️ Critical: Never start working before securing the residence permit!
🌐 How to Apply
- Online Portal: Employers initiate via Qatar’s MOI Metrash System.
- Recruitment Agencies: Use services like Sony Manpower (Pakistan) or Staffhouse (global) for guided support 31011.
⏳ Processing Time
- 2–4 weeks for work visa approval.
- 1–2 weeks for residence permit after arrival 36.
🧳 Bringing Family?
Expatriates earning ≥QAR 10,000/month can sponsor spouses/children. Submit proof of relationship + accommodation 611.
📞 Key Contacts
- MOI Helpline: +974 236 7111 (visa tracking)
- Philippine Embassy (Doha): +974 4483 1585 (distress support: +974 6644 6303)
- Migrant Workers Office (Qatar): +974 3318 2459 / mwoqatar.org
- Metrash App: Download for visa/permits status 47.
💡 Pro Tips
- Keep copies of your RP/visa at all times (labor inspections are common).
- Exit permits are no longer required for most workers under Qatar’s kafala reforms 211.
- Renew RPs 1–2 months before expiry to avoid penalties.
With this guide, you’re ready to launch your Qatari career! Always double-check requirements via the MOI Portal or your home country’s embassy.