Guide to Obtaining a Family Resident Visa in Qatar

Qatar is known for its thriving economy and diverse expatriate community, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking better career opportunities and a higher standard of living. If you are a non-Qatari resident working in Qatar and wish to bring your family to live with you, obtaining a family resident visa is a necessary step. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for a family resident visa in Qatar, the required documents, and the minimum salary criteria.

1. Eligibility for a Family Resident Visa

Before delving into the application process, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria for a family resident visa in Qatar. The following individuals are eligible to apply:

• Expatriate employees with a valid work permit in Qatar
• Government employees
• Private sector employees
• Business owners

It is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding with the application.

2. Required Documents for a Family Resident Visa

When applying for a family resident visa in Qatar, you will need to gather the following documents:

1. Sponsorship Letter: A letter issued by the sponsor (the person working in Qatar) addressed to the Ministry of Interior, requesting the issuance of a family resident visa.
2. Passport Copies: Copies of the sponsor’s passport and the passports of each family member.
3. Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of the marriage certificate for spouses.
4. Birth Certificates: Certified copies of the birth certificates for children.
5. Medical Check-up: A medical check-up report for each family member, including a HIV/AIDS test. This can be obtained from an approved medical center in Qatar.
6. Education Certificates: Educational certificates for children, if applicable.
7. Employment Contract: A copy of the sponsor’s employment contract or a letter from the employer confirming their employment.

It is important to note that all documents should be in English or Arabic. If the original documents are in another language, they must be translated and attested by the relevant authorities.

3. Minimum Salary Criteria for a Family Resident Visa

Qatar has set a minimum salary requirement for individuals applying for a family resident visa. The current minimum salary criteria for non-Qatari residents are as follows:

• For government employees: The minimum salary requirement is QAR 10,000 per month.
• For private sector employees: The minimum salary requirement is QAR 10,000 per month, or QAR 7,000 per month with accommodation provided by the employer.
• For business owners: The minimum requirement is QAR 10,000 per month.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary, and it is advisable to check with the Ministry of Interior or the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

4. Application Process for a Family Resident Visa

Once you have gathered all the required documents and meet the minimum salary criteria, you can proceed with the application process for a family resident visa. The following steps outline the process:

1. Obtain the Sponsorship Letter: The sponsor (the person working in Qatar) should obtain a sponsorship letter from their employer or the company’s PRO (Public Relations Officer). The letter should include the sponsor’s name, passport details, and a request for the issuance of a family resident visa.
2. Submit the Application: The sponsor should submit the completed application form, along with all the required documents, to the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Passports, Immigration, and Expatriate Affairs.
3. Pay the Fees: The sponsor will need to pay the necessary fees for the visa application. The fees may vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay.
4. Medical Check-up: Each family member included in the application will need to undergo a medical check-up at an approved medical center in Qatar. The medical check-up includes a general health examination and a HIV/AIDS test.
5. Residence Permit: Once the application is approved, the sponsor will receive a residence permit for each family member. This permit allows them to legally reside in Qatar.

It is important to note that the application process may take some time, and it is advisable to start the process well in advance to avoid any delays.

5. Renewal of the Family Resident Visa

A family resident visa in Qatar is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually. The renewal process involves submitting the necessary documents, including updated medical check-up reports and passport copies, to the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Passports, Immigration, and Expatriate Affairs.

It is important to ensure that the visa is renewed before its expiry to avoid any legal complications or fines.

Conclusion

Obtaining a family resident visa in Qatar is a crucial step for non-Qatari residents who wish to bring their families to live with them. By following the application process outlined in this guide and ensuring that you meet the minimum salary criteria, you can successfully obtain a family resident visa and enjoy the benefits of having your loved ones by your side in Qatar.

Remember to stay informed about any updates or changes to the visa requirements by regularly checking with the Ministry of Interior or seeking guidance from the relevant authorities.