Visitors must have Hayya Card beginning Nov. 1 as Qatar prepares for World Cup

Visitors to Qatar will be required to obtain a “Hayya Card” to enter the country beginning Nov. 1, Qatari authorities have confirmed.

Key Points:

• Qatar will host the FIFA World Cup from Nov. 20 to Dec. 18.
• Beginning Nov. 1, foreign nationals must have a Hayya Card, or special identification card, to enter the country. In order to obtain a Hayya Card, applicants will need to show that they have tickets for a World Cup match and accommodations for their time in Qatar, among other requirements. Visitors can apply for Hayya Cards here.
• Authorities have not said how long the policy will remain in place; however, they have indicated Hayya Card holders will be able to remain in Qatar until Jan. 23.
• Qatari citizens and residents will be permitted to enter and leave Qatar as they normally would and will not require a Hayya Card.
• Authorities will also provide an exception to the policy for visitors entering and leaving Qatar on the same day. More information on this exception is expected soon.

Background: Qatar is expected to welcome more than 1 million visitors for the World Cup. Authorities had previously said that those attending World Cup matches would be required to obtain a Hayy Card. Authorities have now confirmed that this requirement will apply to all visitors beginning Nov. 1.

BAL Analysis: Those planning to visit Qatar for reasons other than attending World Cup matches should do so before November or after the Hayya Card requirement comes to an end.

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

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