How to Apply for a Qatar ID

The Qatar ID (QID) is the primary requirement in most of your transactions in Qatar. You need to get one if you are working here. All citizens and residents are required to have this ID.

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What are the Benefits of Getting an ID?

The QID is essential when conducting your transactions in Qatar. This ID contains vital information about you, including your photo and fingerprint. You will present your ID when you transact with the government or banks, and even send remittances back home.

The ID serves as your identity when you are in Qatar. You can even present your ID at the airport terminal to help you check-in faster if your ID is a smart card.

Qatar ID
Photo Credit: Ministry of Interior Qatar Twitter

 

What are the Requirements?

To start your application for a Qatar ID, you need to undergo a medical examination and blood testing. You will go through the process at an accredited medical facility.

The employer covers the expenses for the application.

Who can Apply?

Both children and adults need to get a Qatar ID if they will stay in the country for one year or more. For expats, the employer is usually responsible for facilitating the application of the QID. This is why foreign workers are initially given a three-month visa upon arriving in Qatar, to give enough time to apply for the ID. But there are countries, like the Philippines, with Qatar Visa Centers so that the employer can facilitate the ID application while their employee is still in their home countries.

If the expat has sponsored some family members, the said expat will be responsible for facilitating the application.

Step by Step Procedure

Those who want to apply for the Qatar ID can apply online, by going to the Ministry of Interior Qatar website. Proceed to Department Services page, and choose Official Documents Services, then Qatar ID Card Application to see the terms and conditions for applying. As mentioned on the website, the applicant should present the following documents:

  • 2 pcs recent ID photo (required for applicants below 12 years old and more than 65 years old)
  • Duly accomplished application form, which can be downloaded on the MOI website
  • Original passport and photocopy
  • Blood group certificate
  • Photocopy of birth certificate
  • Photocopy of the parent’s ID card
  • Letter of consent from the guardian or parent
  • First-time applicants and/or 12 years old and below are required to be physically present

You will also undergo a medical test (including x-ray) and blood typing. These details will be included in your ID. The result of your medical exam will be available after 2-4 days unless you have a medical condition.

After getting the clean bill of health, you will proceed to fingerprint.

Requirements for Qatar ID renewal

  • Applicants that are 65 years old and below should apply physically; while those who are 65 years old and above are not required to report personally at the Ministry
  • Show the expired QID
  • Submit the duly accomplished application form, which can be found on the MOI website
  • 2 pcs recent ID photo for applicants that are 65 years old and above

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ll try to shed some light on some questions you might have about your application for a QID. Here are some details that might help you:

  • How long does it take to get a Qatar ID?

The process usually takes about 2-4 days, as long as the medical result is available and fingerprints are taken. You might also have to present your passport during these transactions.

  • Where can I get a blood-type certificate?

The blood-type certificate can be requested from any clinic in the country. You will pay a small sum for this certificate. Once you receive your certificate, you can proceed to the Medical Commission for your medical exam and blood test.

  • Where is the Medical Commission located?

To undergo the medical exam, proceed to Al Muntazah Street near E-Ring Road. If you want to go to a private hospital and pay a small amount, you can also get a medical exam in Al Ahli Hospital, Doha Clinic Hospital, or  El Emadi Hospital.

  • Where can I get my fingerprints done?

You will proceed to the Ministry of Interior to get your fingerprints registered. Proceed to the fingerprinting headquarters on Salwa Road near the Industrial Area flyover. You can also proceed to other service centers in Al Khor, Mesaimeer, and Duhail.

  • How much does the Qatar ID cost?

The fee is QR 100 for first-time applicants and renewal of QID. Meanwhile, if the QID is for replacement (whether it is lost or damaged), the fee is QR 200, according to hukoomi.gov.qa.

  • Can you get residency in Qatar?

There are four main criteria to be met before applying for permanent residency. First, should be a resident of Qatar for 20 years, for those born outside the country. But for those born in Qatar, only 10 years of residency is required. Second, should have a basic salary of QR 20,000 – 30,000 to have a stable means to support the applicant and dependents. Third, has displayed good behavior. Finally, should be able to speak Arabic,

  • What is NOC Qatar?

NOC means No Objection Certificate. The NOC is a certification from the employer stating that there is no objection if the employee wants to change jobs.

Summary

The Qatar ID is an important document that any national or resident must carry. Both adults and children are required to bring it with them at all times. The said ID is a requirement for all government transactions, as well as for applying for licenses or accessing medical care. It is subject to renewal annually.

If the home country has a Qatar Visa Center, the employer can facilitate in requesting the Qatar ID from the employee’s home country.

Contact Information

The Nationality and Travel Documents’ Department (NTDD) processes the Qatar ID. It is under the Ministry of Interior. Please call MOI at 44388888 or 2367111.

You can call the Medical Commission to ask what documents you need to prepare or any corresponding fees. Please call 4467911.

For online inquires, go to the Ministry of Public Health website and choose Medical Checkup Requirements. Choose the procedure you want from the list to find out the requirements and applicable fees.

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