The Comprehensive Guide to Qatar Visa from Thailand (2026 Edition)
From the lush tropical scenery of Thailand to the modern day man-made architectural wonders of Doha? You may find that navigating around all of the requirements and unknowns of traveling abroad can seem like a huge wall of confusion, especially when it comes time to acquire a Qatar eVisa, which now can be simply obtained online through thee-visa website.
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Traveling for either an extravagant holiday, a short stopover during a layover or a business trip, will require you to understand the complexities of how the Qatari visa system works. Our detailed overview of Qatar eVisa from Thailand, required documentation and how to change your visa type will assist you in making your transition from the Land of Smiles to the Pearl of the Gulf go smoothly.
Is a visa mandatory for Thai nationals planning to visit Qatar?
Yes, a visa is mandatory for Thai nationals. However, Thai citizens currently enjoy a Visa Waiver facility, which allows for a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes.
While you can technically obtain this upon arrival, it is highly recommended to apply for the Online e-Visa before you fly. Having a pre-approved digital permit ensures you have met all requirements—such as mandatory health insurance and specific hotel bookings—minimizing the risk of delays at the immigration counter in Doha.
What steps should Thai citizens follow to apply for a Qatar Visa?
You can apply for your permit online when applying from Thailand. To obtain your permit:
- Select Type of Visa (Tourist (A1) for travel; GCC Resident (A2) if resident in a GCC country).
- Fill in Personal Information that matches your Thai passport.
- Upload the high-resolution scans of the passport and professional photo.
- Validation of Accommodations: You need to validate your accommodation through a government approved site or by using the "Host Friends/Family" option.
- Payment and Processing: Decide on the type of processing tier you want and pay the fee.
Your permit will be emailed to you as well as a unique QR code.
Which documents are required to obtain a Qatar Visa from Thailand?
To increase the likelihood of your application being accepted, please prepare the following Qatar eVisa Required documents digital files:
- Passport Copy: Must be a clearly legible colour scan of the biodata page from your Thai passport (must remain valid for at least six months).
- Passport Photo: Must have a plain white background and have been taken at least one focused high resolution.
- Hotel Booking: Provision of a confirmation voucher. Most Thai citizens are required to book their stay through the official “Discover Qatar” website to comply with immigration regulations.
- Residency Card (GCC): Required only if you are applying under the A2 visa category.
- Return Flight Ticket: Must provide proof of a confirmed onward and/or return flight.
What Qatar visa options can travelers from Thailand choose?
Depending on your status and purpose, you can select from the following entry permits:
FeatureTourist Visa (A1)GCC Resident Visa (A2)Best ForStandard tourism and leisure.Thai nationals residing in the GCC.No. of EntriesSingle EntrySingle EntryVisa Validity90 Days90 DaysStay DurationUp to 30 DaysUp to 30 DaysRequirementStandard DocumentationGCC Residence Permit + Standard Docs
How much time does it usually take to process a Qatar Visa for Thai applicants?
In 2026, applicants have three choices for processing speeds, allowing for both planned and last-minute travel:
- Standard Processing: 6–9 Working Days
- Rush Processing: 4–7 Working Days
- Super Rush Processing: 3–5 Working Days
Are Thai travelers allowed to apply for a Qatar Visa as a group?
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Yes. The digital platform supports group applications, allowing a lead traveler to manage entries for family members or travel companions. This is particularly useful for families flying from Bangkok, as it keeps all documents—especially accommodation proof—synchronized. However, every traveler, including children, will receive an individual permit and QR code.
Can a Qatar Visa be changed to Visa on Arrival after arrival?
You cannot present it at the immigration desk and "swap" your eVisa for a Visa on Arrival once you have received a pre-approved A1 or A2 eVisa. The eVisa will be your active entry document. It is generally more advantageous to travel with an eVisa because accommodation and insurance have already been pre-verified, whereas it may take longer to complete these requirements if you choose the Visa on Arrival option.
Is it allowed to convert a Visa on Arrival once inside Qatar?
A tourist entry permit for Thai nationals is usually not convertible, meaning that if you enter Qatar as a tourist, you will not be able to change your visa status to that of a worker or private resident while remaining in Qatar. If you receive a job offer or long-term sponsorship during your stay in Qatar, you will normally have to leave Qatar and re-enter on a sponsored work or residence visa.
Can Thai visitors enter Qatar after their Visa has been approved?
Absolutely. Once your application status shows "Approved" and you receive your Entry Permit PDF, you are cleared for travel. You must carry a printed copy of this permit to present to airline staff at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport, and to the immigration officer in Doha.
Is there a specific entry window after Qatar Visa approval for Thai travelers?
Approved eVisas are only good for 90 days from when they are issued; you must enter Qatar within this time period (within 90 days). Your stay will be for 30 days after passing through immigration when you arrive in Qatar. A permit will also expire after the 90-day period if not used.
What activities are allowed under a Qatar tourist Visa for Thai citizens?
The purpose of the Tourist Visa (A1) is for travelling within Qatar for leisure or cultural exchanges. This may include:
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- Sightseeing e.g... National Museum Of Qatar; The Pearl-Qatar.
- Visiting parents/family members who live in Doha.
- Attendance at major sporting events and cultural celebrations.
- Shopping at Souq Waqif or luxury shopping malls.
Note: there is a strict prohibition against engaging in any type of paid work while on a Tourist Visa (A1).
Can business-related activities be performed on a Qatar Visa from Thailand?
While the Tourist Visa (A1) is intended for leisure, you are generally allowed to attend conferences, seminars, or short business meetings.
However, if your primary goal is to conduct technical work, sign official contracts, or represent a company for a prolonged period, you should apply for a dedicated Business Visa. A Business Visa typically requires an invitation from a Qatari establishment and follows different approval guidelines.
Ready for Your Arabian Adventure?
Securing your Qatar eVisa from Thailand is the first step toward exploring the vibrant culture and modern luxury of Doha. Ensure your passport has 6 months of validity and your hotel is confirmed through the correct channels to enjoy a hassle-free arrival.