Many expats arrive in Qatar on a visit visa with the hope of landing a job and starting a career in this fast-growing Gulf nation. If you’ve received a job offer while in Qatar on a visit or tourist visa, you may be wondering: Can I convert my visit visa into a work visa without leaving the country? The good news is—yes, it’s possible, under the right conditions.

Here’s what you need to know about converting a visit visa to a work visa in Qatar, including the requirements, step-by-step process, and key tips to avoid complications.
 

Is it Legal to Convert a Visit Visa to a Work Visa?

Yes. As of recent years, Qatar allows the conversion of certain visit visas into work visas without exiting the country, provided that the job offer is genuine and the sponsoring company is authorized to apply for work permits.

This process is subject to approval by the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Ministry of Labour (MOL).

 

Requirements for Converting a Visit Visa

To convert a visit visa into a work visa, the following are typically required:

✅ From the Employer (Sponsor):

 

• Valid commercial registration (CR)
   
• Valid establishment card
   
• Labour quota approval from the Ministry of Labour
   
• Job offer letter
   
• Request letter to convert the visa (addressed to MOI)

 

✅ From the Applicant (You):

 

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
   
• Copy of the current visit visa
   
• Educational and professional certificates (attested)
   
• Medical test and fingerprinting
   
• Passport-size photos
   
• Completed application form

 

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a general outline of how the conversion process works:

1. Secure a Job Offer

You must have a confirmed job offer from a Qatar-based company willing to sponsor you.

2. Employer Applies for Visa Conversion

Your employer will submit a request to convert your current visa status to a work visa. This is done through the Ministry of Interior’s Expatriate Affairs Department.

3. Undergo Medical & Fingerprinting

Once approved in principle, you’ll be required to undergo:

• A medical checkup at an approved medical facility
   
• Biometric fingerprinting at the MOI

4. Work Permit Issued

Once all approvals are granted, your employer will be issued a work permit on your behalf.

5. Residence Permit Processed

After entering the employment system, your Qatar ID (residence permit) will be processed and issued.

 

Important Reminders

The entire process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly your employer completes their part, especially quota approvals and documentation.

 

Cost of Conversion

Costs may vary depending on the type of visa and sponsoring company, but generally include:

Item	Approximate Cost (QAR)
Visa status change	QAR 500–1,000
Medical test & fingerprinting	QAR 300–500
Qatar ID issuance	QAR 100–200

Note: Your employer should cover most of these costs as part of their sponsorship responsibility.

 

Where to Get Help

 

• 🔗 Ministry of Interior (MOI) Qatar
   
• 🔗 Hukoomi – Qatar Government Services
   
• 📞 MOI Helpline: 234 2000
   
• 📞 Ministry of Labour: 16008

For Filipino jobseekers:

• 🔗 Philippine Embassy – Doha
   
• 🔗 POLO-OWWA Qatar