Qatar: What is the Hayya Card and How to Get It?
The Hayya Card is Qatar's official fan ID for World Cup 2022, granting visa-free entry and free transport. Here’s how to secure yours ahead of the tournament.
The FIFA World Cup in Qatar is about to begin, though the event faces apathy amid its geopolitical backdrop and controversial hosting conditions. The emirate has moved to block entry for travelers unconnected to the tournament between November 1 and December 23—three weeks before and one week after the competition’s end.
Entry to Qatar now depends on securing the prized Hayya Card, equivalent to Russia’s 2018 Fan ID. Holders linked to a passport can stay in the country until January 23—sans visa—and enjoy free public transport across Qatar. Those with the Hayya Card can invite up to three family members or friends to attend World Cup matches.
Exemptions to the entry suspension include Qatari citizens, residents, and citizens of the GCC holding a Qatari ID. However, travelers without the Hayya Card should be aware that the emirate has already begun suspending tourist visa issuance for certain nationalities—particularly those ineligible for visa-free entry, including much of Africa and parts of Asia.
Apply for your Hayya Card via the official portal: https://hayya.qatar2022.qa/
The mandatory Qatar Travel Declaration form must also be completed, though unvaccinated travelers are permitted—provided they present a negative PCR test within 48 hours or a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of arrival.
It bears noting that Qatar has recently sparked controversy by stating it cannot host all expected visitors, instead relying on expanded shuttle flights to Gulf neighbors—a consideration notably absent from ecological discussions.
