The Qatari government has expanded the mandatory health scheme to holders of multiple-entry work visas.

‌Key Points:

  • All visitors to Qatar are advised to purchase health insurance policies before entering the country, but those staying for more than 30 days are now required to have health insurance. All mandatory insurance need to be obtained prior to arrival, no matter the duration of stay in country.
  • Foreign nationals applying for multiple-entry work visas must obtain a health insurance policy from one of the Ministry of Public Health-approved companies. The list of approved companies can be found on the MOPH website, but the insurance should be obtained from the insurance company’s website or office.
  • The policies must be valid up until the visa expires.

‌Background: In 2022, Qatar issued a regulation requiring employers to obtain minimum basic health insurance from approved Qatari insurers for all employees. Requiring multiple-entry visa holders to be insured marks an expansion of that regulation.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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