The Qatari government has provided additional information for those traveling to Qatar during the 2022 World Cup.

Key Points:

  • Foreign national visitors will not be allowed to enter Qatar from Nov. 1 to Dec. 23 unless they hold a Hayya Card or:
    • Are Qatari nationals or nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and hold a valid Qatari ID card.
    • Hold a valid personal recruitment visa or work permit.
    • Are traveling for approved humanitarian purposes.
  • To apply for the Hayya Card, foreign nationals can download the Hayya to Qatar 2022 mobile application or visit this website and must submit:
    • Their personal information, including passport and biographical information.
    • Proof of tickets to the World Cup matches they will be attending.
    • Proof of their hotel booking.
  • Hayya cardholders will be able to stay in Qatar until Jan. 23, 2023. More information regarding the Hayya Card is available here.

Additional Information: Immigration service delays should be expected during the 2022 World Cup. Those with visas that are set to expire in November and December should submit renewal applications before the World Cup begins. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have also implemented temporary World Cup entrypolicies.

BAL Analysis: The Hayya Card will serve as a valid visa to enter the country to attend the 2022 World Cup from Nov. 1, 2022, to Jan. 1, 2023. Most visitors who do not hold a Hayya Card will not be permitted to enter Qatar; however foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit, among a limited number of others, will still be allowed to enter the country. Foreign nationals attending the World Cup are encouraged to apply for the card as soon as possible to avoid possible delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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