Since 1 February 2023, Qatar’s Law No. 22 of 2021 regulating healthcare services has required every visitor to Qatar to hold a valid health insurance policy, and it is one of the conditions for obtaining a visit visa. The point many people miss: the policy must be issued by a company registered with Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health, or by an international company approved by it. Any other travel insurance, however high its cover, may not be accepted. This guide covers what the mandatory policy covers, its official premium, and where to buy it.
What does the mandatory visitor policy cover?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Emergency treatment and accidents | Up to QAR 150,000 during the policy period inside Qatar |
| Repatriation of remains in case of death | Up to QAR 10,000 |
| Waiting period | None |
| Non-emergency treatment | Not included in the basic policy |
Additional cover can be bought from the same insurers at prices each company sets, but the basic policy is what the visa requires.
What is the official premium for Qatar visit insurance?
The Ministry of Public Health has set the premium for the basic policy at QAR 50 per month, which is the premium for the shortest possible period (30 days). If you extend your visit visa, you need an additional policy covering the new period at the same monthly premium. This low premium makes buying an approved policy the logical choice, rather than risking an unapproved one.
Where to buy the policy
- Insurers registered with the Ministry: their list and purchase links are published on the visitors’ health insurance portal qhis.moph.gov.qa.
- An international insurer approved by the Ministry: provided the policy names Qatar in its scope, covers your stay, and the company is on the list of approved insurers.
Buy the policy after completing the other visa requirements, and carry it with you on entry, printed or on your phone. If you are eligible for a visa on arrival, buy the policy before travelling so your entry is not delayed.
Does the requirement apply to travellers from Saudi Arabia?
Gulf citizens have a different healthcare system in Qatar. Residents of Saudi Arabia of other nationalities need the policy as part of the visit visa requirements, as do accompanying family members. Check your exact case on the Ministry of Public Health or Visit Qatar website before travelling, as the rules differ by visa type and nationality.
Common mistakes with Qatar visit insurance
- Buying international travel insurance from an insurer not approved by the Ministry.
- A policy that doesn’t cover the whole stay, especially after a visa extension.
- Believing the policy covers the other Gulf states; it only covers treatment inside Qatar.
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Frequently asked questions
Is regular international travel insurance enough to visit Qatar?
Only if the issuing company is approved by Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health, and the policy names Qatar and covers your stay.
Does the Qatar policy cover the other Gulf states?
No. The mandatory policy covers treatment inside Qatar only.
What if I extend my visit visa?
You need a new policy covering the extension period, at the same monthly premium.
Do children need a separate policy?
Yes. Every visitor needs a policy in their own name, regardless of age.
Sources
- Qatar Ministry of Public Health – Visitors’ health insurance
- Law No. 22 of 2021 regulating healthcare services in Qatar
- Visit Qatar (visitqatar.com)
