Qatar Airways has introduced a new online system to allow its passengers to apply for a tourist visa to Qatar or United Arab Emirates (UAE).
There are certain restrictions, however. Only single-entry visas are available, and each is valid for only one month. In addition, the visa must be used within 60 days from the date of issue, without the option to extend. The application must be for tourism purposes only.
Upon visiting the Qatar Airways main page, customers will see a new section titled “Travelling to Qatar or the UAE”, which allows them to apply for entry visas for both destinations. While UAE visa applicants will be redirected to the IVS Global Private Limited system website, those who choose Qatar will be linked to the airline’s own application page.
Documents required for the application procedure include a scanned copy of the individual’s passport, along with the hotel booking confirmation. As the service is exclusively for Qatar Airways passengers, applicants must also provide their flight booking reference and last name.
It takes approximately 10 days to process the visa and the cost is US$55 per person. There is an option to fast-track the application, down to a seven days' wait, for US$120. All fees are non-refundable.
Finally, customers can also monitor and track the progress of their applications by providing their passport numbers and last names.
For more information, visit www.qatarairways.com
Clement Huang
