Qatar Suspends Visa-on-Arrival for Pakistanis — Apply Before You Travel
Qatar has suspended its visa-on-arrival facility for Pakistani nationals, the Pakistan Embassy in Doha confirmed on 30 March 2026. The advisory, posted on the embassy’s official X account, cited the “prevailing situation” — widely understood to be the escalating tensions across the Middle East — as the reason for the suspension.
“Pakistani nationals intending to travel to Qatar are advised that visa-on-arrival facility is currently not available due to prevailing situation. All Pakistani travellers to Qatar are advised to obtain appropriate visas prior to travel to avoid inconvenience.”
— Pakistan Embassy Qatar (@PakinQatar)
Previously, Pakistani passport holders could travel to Qatar and receive a 30-day visa stamp at the immigration counter upon arrival at Hamad International Airport. That option is now closed until further notice.
Why Has the Facility Been Suspended?
The embassy has not spelled out a specific reason, but regional analysts have connected the suspension to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and US military operations in the Gulf. Qatar — which hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military installation in the region — is operating under heightened security conditions. Entry procedures for certain nationalities have been tightened as a precautionary measure during this period.
What You Must Do Before Flying to Qatar
Action Checklist for Pakistani Travellers
- Do not board a flight to Qatar without a valid pre-arranged visa.
- Apply online via the Qatar Ministry of Interior e-Visa portal at portal.moi.gov.qa.
- Contact the Pakistan Embassy in Doha for guidance on the correct visa category for your trip.
- If travelling for work, ensure your employer or sponsor in Qatar has arranged the appropriate work or residence visa.
- Monitor the embassy’s official X account @PakinQatar for any updates or reversal of this advisory.
Who Is Affected?
This advisory applies to all Pakistani nationals intending to travel to Qatar — whether for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. Pakistani expatriates already residing and working in Qatar on valid residence permits or QID cards are not affected by this suspension.
When Will Visa-on-Arrival Be Restored?
No timeline has been given. The Pakistan Embassy described the suspension as being due to the “prevailing situation,” which suggests it is temporary but with no confirmed end date. Travellers are strongly advised not to assume the facility will be restored before their planned travel date and should apply for a visa in advance regardless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Qatar completely stopped allowing Pakistanis to enter?
No. Pakistanis can still enter Qatar but must obtain a visa before departure. Only the visa-on-arrival facility has been suspended, not travel itself.
How long does it take to get a Qatar visa for Pakistanis?
Processing times through the Qatar e-Visa portal typically range from a few hours to several business days depending on the visa type. Apply well in advance of your travel date.
Can I still transit through Doha without a visa?
Transit rules may differ from entry rules. Contact Qatar Airways or the Pakistan Embassy for the latest transit guidance specific to your itinerary.
Where can I get the latest updates on this advisory?
Follow the Pakistan Embassy Qatar on X at @PakinQatar and check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan website at mofa.gov.pk.
