Qatar announces ‘visa on arrival’ facility for Moroccans and Algerians
Qatar has expanded ‘visa on arrival’ facility to nationals of two other countries — Morocco and Algeria — provided they satisfy some criteria.
In order to get visa on arrival, Moroccans and Algerians should have valid residence permits or visas from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Schengen or GCC countries, Gulf Times reported citing the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA).
The new system, which will take effect on September 15, will allow eligible visitors to obtain Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by completing a simple online application on www.qatarvisaservice.com at least 48 hours prior to travelling to Qatar, reported The Peninsula.
Applicants will be asked to provide proof of accommodation (eg: hotel booking) and details of their return (or onward) travel, in addition to a copy of their passport with a minimum validity of six months.
Once these steps are complete, eligible travellers will be able to obtain a visa-on-arrival in Qatar, which will permit them to stay in the country for up to 30 days during a single visit, reported Qatar Tribune.
The visa can then be extended for an additional 30 days to be used during the same visit. If the visitor leaves the country and wishes to return, they will need to apply for a new ETA, 48 hours before travelling to Qatar.
“We’re continuously reviewing Qatar’s visa policies and seek to update them in line with economic and international developments. We’re delighted to announce the implementation of the ETA system for our brothers and sisters in Morocco and Algeria. This new development will facilitate cooperation between our nations and will help attract visitors from those countries. Algerian and Moroccan visitors who aren’t eligible for an ETA are also welcome to apply to for a regular tourist visa through the same e-visa platform,” said MoI’s Department of Passport and Expatriates Affairs Director General Brigadier Mohammed al Ateeq.
There had been earlier reports that Moroccans could enter the country without a visa.
For Indian Nationals
I mean the copy of Valid ID of spouse is shown on arrival counter.
Does anyone have any idea if an immediate family member want to visit his /her spouse on tourist visa for say 30 or less days ,whats the procedure.Does that person need to show the hotel reservation on arrival or can show the copy of his/her spouse .so as to enter Qatar?