Qatar is instantly becoming one of the best places in the world to visit. With its beautiful desert scenery and highly developed cityscape of Doha, travelers travelling to Qatar from Japan in 2026 will have never had an easier time visiting the Middle East. It is important for all visitors to Qatar, regardless if they are there for leisure or work, to be able to navigate through Qatar Entry Requirements.
This Qatar Visa for Japanese Citizens Guide for Travellers will assist you with the entire process of applying for a Qatari Visa Electronically, including informing you which types of visas are available. Additionally, this Guide will contain tips on local customs and transport and help you successfully travel from Tokyo or Osaka to Doha, Qatar without any difficulties.
Is a visa required for Japanese nationals traveling to Qatar?
Yes, Japanese nationals require an entry permit to visit the State of Qatar. While the system is highly digitalized for 2026, every traveler must hold a valid visa or an approved entry permit before passing through immigration at Hamad International Airport (DOH).
For standard tourism, Japanese citizens typically apply for the Tourist Visa (A1). This permit allows for a stay of up to 90 days. It is critical to ensure that your Japanese passport has at least six months of validity remaining from the date you plan to enter the country.
What is the application process for a Qatar Visa for Japanese citizens?
Digital applications are being processed in an easy-to-use digital environment. Applications can be completed online.
Visa Type: The Tourist Visa (A1) is meant for leisure purposes and for family members who want to visit you.
Data Upload: You will be required to upload a clear scan of your Japanese passport so the system can use recognition technologies to automatically fill in your other information.
Accommodation Related: You must provide proof of where you will be staying (e.g., confirmed hotel booking).
Health Insurance: You will be required to purchase mandatory visitor health insurance ($50), which can be purchased directly within the application system.
Payment: All processing fees must be paid for using a credit/debit card that is accepted worldwide.
Approval of Permit: If approved, the digital version of your permit will be sent to you. You will be required to store the digital version on your mobile device and print a hard copy of the digital version to show upon boarding your flight.
Which documents are needed to apply for a Qatar Visa from Japan?
To avoid any delays with your application, please submit the following items as digital Qatar eVisa required documents:
Passport Copy: A clear, high-resolution scan of the bio-data page. It should be valid for at least six (6) months.
Passport Photo: A recent colour photo on a white background.
Confirmed Hotel Booking: Evidence of your accommodation during your stay.
Residency Card (if applicable): Only for Japanese citizens applying for the A2 (GCC Resident) visa as a resident of a Gulf country, such as Saudi Arabia or the UAE.
Return Flight Ticket: Documentation stating the date of your intended departure from Qatar.
What Qatar visa options are available to travelers from Japan?
In 2026, the digital entry platform categorizes permits to suit different needs:
How much time does it usually take to process a Qatar Visa for Japanese applicants?
Although the Processing Time is intended to be relatively rapid, Processing Time is divided into three tiers (Standard Processing, Rush Processing & Super Rush) to allow for differing travel planning timeframes:
Standard Processing (6-9 Business Days)
Rush Processing (4-7 Business Days)
Super Rush Processing (3-5 Business Days)
When is the ideal season for tourists from Japan to visit Qatar?
Winter months are the most comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
1. Ideal Season: November to March (15°C–28°C)
2. Comfort: Mild and pleasant weather
3. Activities: Desert tours, cultural sites, beaches
4. Shoulder Months: October and April – warmer, fewer crowds
5. Avoid: June to September – extremely hot
What alcohol-related regulations should Japanese visitors be aware of in Qatar?
While Japan has a very relaxed approach to alcohol, Qatar is an Islamic country with specific laws:
No Importation: It is strictly prohibited to bring alcohol into Qatar. Bottles purchased at Duty-Free in Japan or during transit will be confiscated by customs at the airport.
Licensed Venues: Alcohol is exclusively served in licensed hotel restaurants and bars.
Public Sobriety: Being intoxicated in public or drinking in non-designated areas is a legal offense that can lead to fines or detention.
What local laws and customs in Qatar should Japanese tourists follow?
Respecting local customs guarantees a pleasant and enjoyable visit:
Appropriate Attire: When in public areas such as shopping malls and markets, males and females must wear shirts, with a minimum cover of the shoulders and knees.
Photography: Always receive permission before taking pictures of people. Be sure to obtain the consent of a person you are about to take their photo. Do not take pictures of military or government facilities.
Social norms: Public displays of affection (i.e. kissing, hugging, holding hands) are often inappropriate.
Religion: When travelling during the month of Ramadan, do not eat or drink in public view during the day as a sign of respect to the fasting community.
Which medications can Japanese travelers legally bring into Qatar?
Qatar has strict anti-drug laws, and some medications common in Japan may be restricted:
Original Packaging: Always keep medication in its original pharmacy packaging.
Doctor’s Prescription: Carry a signed prescription and a letter in English explaining the medical necessity.
Quantity Limits: You are typically allowed to bring up to a 30-day supply of personal medication.
What are the key emergency helpline numbers for tourists in Qatar?
For immediate assistance, keep these numbers saved:
General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999
Japanese Embassy in Doha: +974 4484 0888
Non-Emergency Health Inquiries: 16000
What medical services and hospitals can tourists access in Qatar?
One of the best healthcare systems in the Middle East is available in Qatar; if you are a visitor and become ill or injured while travelling there, you will find that the following options are available to you:
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) - The main public provider of emergency treatment at high-quality standards.
Private Hospitals - High-end private hospitals such as Sidra Medicine or Al Ahli have some of the lowest wait times for services available compared to other healthcare facilities in Qatar.
Insurance - All emergency treatment and accident care provided through your approved visitor insurance policy is fully reimbursed by most hospitals in Qatar.
How convenient is taxi service and public transport for visitors in Qatar?
The transport infrastructure in Doha is world-class and very easy to navigate:
Doha Metro: A state-of-the-art, driverless system that is clean, fast, and very affordable at only 2 QAR (approx. 80 JPY) per journey.
Karwa Taxis: The official government-owned turquoise taxis, which are metered and highly reliable.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Uber are widely available and popular for their ease of use and fixed pricing.
Public Buses: Modern, air-conditioned buses connect major residential and commercial districts across the country.
Start Your Qatari Adventure Today
With the streamlined digital entry system and the incredible infrastructure of 2026, Qatar is more accessible than ever for Japanese citizens. Whether you are looking for a weekend stopover or a deep dive into Arabian culture, your journey begins with a simple online application.
