The country of Qatar has become the fastest growing tourism, business and sports site on Earth with only three months since its inception, and with only one month until the Malaysian citizens can make their trip to Qatar via electronic means. With the introduction of the digital platform in 2026, this will now be the digital gateway for all electronic travel documents and pass control between Kuala Lumpur and Doha.

In addition to providing up-to-date information about Qatar’s eVisa process, this Qatar eVisa from Malaysia guide also provides helpful hints for planning your trip to experience the beauty of Katara Cultural Village’s historic culture, shop at the extravagant Place Vendôme or attend the upcoming Web Summit Qatar in February 2026.

Do travelers holding a Malaysian passport need prior visa approval to enter Qatar?

Yes — travelers holding a Malaysian passport would need prior visa approval (such as applying for an e-Visa) if they do not use visa-on-arrival or an equivalent entry permit before traveling to Qatar. Qatar’s immigration system offers electronic visas (e-Visas) that eligible visitors can apply for online ahead of travel, and this online visa approval must be obtained before departure.

How do Malaysian citizens apply online for a Qatar Visa?

When applying from Malaysia, you will be able to apply for your permit online. To be able to apply for your permit:

• • Choose Type of Visa: You will be able to select the visa category (for example, Tourist Visa (A1) and/or any other appropriate e-Visa type based on your reason for travel).

• • Personal Information: You must fill out the application form using your personal information exactly as it appears in your Malaysian passport.

• • Upload Required Documents: You must upload a clear, high-quality scan of your passport (bio page) and a recent professional passport-size photo.

• • Proof of Accommodation: You must provide proof of accommodation by booking through an approved platform (or selecting “Host Friends/Family” if this applies).

• • Payment & Submission: You must pay the e-Visa application fee and submit your application for processing through the online system.

• • Receive Your e-Visa Approval: After your application has been processed, the Qatar e-Visa will be sent to you electronically, and the e-Visa will be sent to the email address you used to register on the website.

What paperwork is required from Malaysians when applying for a Qatar eVisa?

To ensure your application is successful, prepare the following digital documents:

• • Passport Copy: A high-resolution scan of your Malaysian passport’s bio-data page.

• • Passport Photo: A recent color photograph with a plain white background.

• • Hotel Booking: Proof of accommodation (often required to be a “Discover Qatar” booking for certain entry types).

• • Residency Card (GCC): Required only for those applying under the A2 category (GCC Resident Visa).

• • Mandatory Health Insurance: A policy from a Qatari-registered provider (standard price is QAR 50).

Which Qatar visa options are suitable for visitors from Malaysia?

There are several pathways for Malaysians depending on the nature of the visit:

• • Tourist Entry (Hayya A1): Best for general holidays, sightseeing, and visiting friends.

• • GCC Resident Entry (Hayya A2): Specifically for Malaysians residing in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, or Bahrain.

• • Transit Visa: For those with a layover of 5 to 96 hours with Qatar Airways.

• • Business Visa: Suitable for those attending corporate meetings or commercial events.

What is the usual turnaround time for Qatar eVisa applications from Malaysia?

The digital system offers various processing speeds to accommodate your travel timeline:

Processing Options

• • Standard: 6–9 Working Days

• • Rush: 4–7 Working Days

• • Super Rush: 3–5 Working Days

Are Malaysians eligible to receive a Qatar Visa on Arrival?

Yes, Malaysians are fully eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA). If you have not applied for a Hayya permit beforehand, you can proceed to the immigration counters in Doha. You must present your passport (minimum 6 months validity), a confirmed return ticket, and a hotel booking.

Important: While VOA is available, the Qatari government strongly prefers travelers to use the Hayya app. Pre-registering allows you to clear health insurance checks digitally, saving significant time at the airport.

How many days are Malaysians permitted to stay in Qatar with a Visa?

Malaysian citizens are entitled to a maximum temporal limit of 30 days in the UAE when entering under the Tourist Visa category (A1). However, if you are a Malaysian residing in one of the Gulf Cooperating Council countries, and enter the UAE with a GCC Resident Visa (A2), then you can now stay for a maximum 60-day period. This extension allows greater ease and accessibility for regional travel relating to forthcoming events such as the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and 2026 cultural activities.

What is the official validity period of a Qatar Visa for Malaysian nationals?

Both the A1 and A2 visa types carry an official validity period of 90 days from the date of issuance. This is the window of time you have to enter the country. Once you pass through immigration, the “stay duration” (30 or 60 days) begins.

Can Malaysians obtain a Qatar tourist visa through the eVisa system?

Absolutely. The Hayya A1 category serves as the official “Tourist eVisa.” It has replaced the older, more complex visa systems of the past. It is the most secure and modern way for Malaysians to guarantee their tourist status before arrival.

Is a business-purpose eVisa available for Malaysian travelers visiting Qatar?

Yes. Participating in the standard tourist visa is what many business travelers use when attending brief meetings in Qatar, but there is also an option to apply for a dedicated Business Visa which is generally obtained by obtaining an invitation from a Qatari company. For Malaysian Business Entrepreneurs attending conferences, the Online platform has created an assortment of “event” and “Business” sub-categories that may be applied through an online application.

What passport validity and type are required for Malaysians applying for a Qatar eVisa?

• • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. (Note: Some portals mention 3 months, but 6 months is the standard for guaranteed entry).

• • Passport Type: You must hold a Standard Malaysia Passport. Temporary travel documents or emergency certificates may not be accepted for the eVisa/Hayya system.

Can Malaysian visitors legally extend their stay in Qatar while holding a Visa? 

Of course, the total stay may be extended if thirty days is not enough time.

To extend, simply log onto your Metrash2 app and request an extension or visit a Ministry of Interior (MOI) Service Centre.

Generally, an instant extension will incur a charge of QAR 200, and it is important that your existing health insurance is still valid for your new duration of stay.

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