How to apply for a visa extension in Qatar

Extending a short stay in Qatar is common, whether for travel, family visits, business or while waiting for residency paperwork. In most cases, it can be done without leaving the country, as long as the visa type and entry terms allow it.

Who can extend and under what conditions

Extension rules in Qatar depend on the type of visa, the traveller’s nationality and the original conditions of entry. Tourist visas and visa waivers, for example those granted to UK and EU nationals, are usually valid for 30 or 90 days and can often be renewed once for another 30 days.

Family visit visas allow for longer stays but come with more conditions. These typically include a Qatari sponsor with valid residency and a minimum income, along with supporting documents. Business and official visas are sometimes extendable but that usually involves the sponsoring company and depends on approval from the authorities.

It’s important to confirm the terms of your visa early, especially if plans may change.

How to extend a visa in Qatar

Short-stay visas in Qatar can usually be extended either online or in person. The Metrash2 mobile app and the Ministry of Interior’s website both allow eligible visitors to submit extension requests, as long as the current visa is still valid.

For those who prefer to manage the process face to face, visa services are available at Ministry service centres and at Hamad International Airport. The airport desk is often used by travellers applying close to departure or when online access is limited.

Before applying, check that your passport has at least six months’ validity and that you hold a return ticket. Health insurance must be active and cover the full extended period. All payments are made by card. Most applications are processed within one to three working days.

In some cases, Metrash2 will only show the extension option near the end of the visa’s validity. If that doesn’t appear, applying in person may be the safer route.

Family visit visa extension

Family visit visas are normally issued for 30 or 90 days and can be extended one month at a time, often up to a maximum stay of five or six months. In practice, the extension process is fairly straightforward, but approval depends on meeting certain requirements around the sponsor’s residency, income, and supporting documents.

The sponsor must hold a valid Qatar residence permit and show proof of income. For a spouse or children, the minimum salary is usually QAR 5,000 per month. For parents or in-laws, it’s closer to QAR 10,000. Most applicants provide a salary certificate or recent bank statements. Health insurance needs to cover the entire extended stay, and a medical check is required if the visit goes beyond 90 days.

Many people prefer to complete the first extension in person, especially when paperwork needs review. After that, monthly renewals can be managed through Metrash2. The app tends to work well, but it’s worth checking early for eligibility prompts or system issues, as these can take time to resolve.

What happens if you overstay

Overstaying a visa in Qatar leads to a fine of QAR 200 for each day past the expiry date. The penalty starts from the first day of overstay and continues to build until it’s paid. It must be settled before you can exit the country or apply for a new visa. Many people only realise the fine is active when making travel plans, so it’s worth checking your visa status early. Submitting an extension request before your visa runs out is the only way to avoid the charge.

What to keep in mind

Visa extensions in Qatar are generally straightforward when the requirements are clear and the application is submitted on time. Issues tend to arise when travellers wait too long to apply or overlook key documents, especially proof of insurance or return travel. It’s common for health coverage or ticket validity to fall short of the requested extension period, which can cause delays. Checking the specific conditions tied to your visa type and nationality early on gives you the best chance of approval without disruption.

How can Sovereign PPG help?

If you need support with a visa extension, a change in immigration status, or managing sponsorships for staff or dependants, our team can guide you through the process. Sovereign PPG works closely with government departments and local authorities in Qatar to ensure that applications are handled accurately and efficiently. We assist individuals, families, and businesses with visa services, regulatory compliance, and corporate structuring.

To speak with us in Dubai, call +971 (0)4 456 1761. For our Abu Dhabi office, reach us on +971 (0)2 448 5120. You can also email qatar@sovereigngroup.com or use the contact form below.