In Qatar, possessing an ID card is mandatory for various purposes, including governmental requirements, daily activities such as obtaining cell phone service, availing shopping discounts, or accessing specific websites.
The card provides protection against identity theft and enables individuals to function as fully responsible citizens with complete rights and obligations. Only authorized personnel under the control of competent authorities can modify registration information.
As per the Ministry of Interior (MOI), Qatari nationals are required to carry their ID cards at all times to verify their identities, while residents are advised to present their identity cards to authorities if requested.
If you plan to relocate to Qatar, obtaining an ID card is mandatory. The card facilitates smooth transactions at government buildings, while paying bills and renting apartments become hassle-free. Qatari residents have several options at their disposal, and expat employers handle most of the paperwork, with the residents worrying about only a few details.
Residency permits being removed from passports in 2014 has made ID cards all the more important. Once expats possess their new identity cards, they can use them only to prove their identity and residency in Qatar. Additionally, the card is beneficial for children, and individuals must carry their passports and ID cards when entering Qatar from other countries.
Table of Contents
Who can apply for Qatar ID?
In Qatar, possessing a Qatar ID is obligatory for both children and adults who intend to stay in the country for a minimum of one year.
Employers are typically in charge of organizing QID applications for expatriates. After their arrival in Qatar, foreign workers receive a three-month visa that enables them to apply for their ID.
Some countries have Qatar Visa Centers to facilitate the process while expats are still in their home countries. Expats who sponsor family members are responsible for assisting them with the application procedure.
What are the requirements for obtaining a Qatar ID?
Prior to applying for a Qatar ID, it is imperative to undergo a medical examination and blood testing. This process is usually facilitated by medical facilities that are accredited by the Joint Commission.
It is noteworthy that the employer is typically responsible for the expenses associated with the application process.To apply for a Qatar ID, one must first ensure that their Qatar Visa status is valid.
Qatar ID Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The Ministry of Interior Qatar offers an online platform for applicants to apply for a Qatar ID card. To view the terms and conditions for the Qatar ID card application, applicants can access the Department Services section of the Ministry of Interior Qatar website and choose Official Documents Services.
To complete the Qatar ID card application, several documents are required. These include photographs of the applicant (for applicants over 65 and under 12 years of age), a completed application form, original and photocopies of passports, certification of blood group, birth certificate photocopy, parental ID photocopy, parental or guardian consent letter, and biometric fingerprints.
Upon arrival, a medical examination involving an X-ray and a blood test will be conducted at the medical facilities within 2-5 days. The Medical Commission will usually clear the assignment within 2-4 business days unless the assignee is found unfit, in which case special procedures will be assigned for clearance of the Medical report. Depending on the patient, the medical examination may take a week to a month.
Once the medical examination results have cleared, an appointment for fingerprinting will be scheduled, and fingerprint clearance usually takes between 2-4 days. After fingerprint clearance, applicants will receive their Qatar ID card and residence permit issuance.
Applicants who are 12 years of age and younger must be physically present at the time of application. To check the current status of their Qatar ID, applicants can visit the Qatar ID Check website after applying.
What to do if your Qatar ID card missing?
It is the responsibility of residents to report any loss or misplacement of their ID cards to the General Directorate of Passports.
This ensures that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent any potential misuse of the lost ID card. Therefore, residents are advised to promptly notify the authorities in case of any such incidents.
Within Qatar:
In order to replace a lost ID in Qatar, residents or company representatives need to follow certain procedures. They are required to fill out a lost ID form and provide their passports for verification. Additionally, a lost report fee of QR200 must be paid along with a replacement card fee if the ID card goes missing within the country.
Outside Qatar:
A Return Permit for a Resident is a document issued to individuals whose residency card has been lost outside of Qatar. To obtain this permit, certain procedures must be followed. Firstly, a report must be filed in the country where the card was lost. This report should then be sent to the Qatari representative in that country.
Finally, the report must be attested by the Qatari authorities. Once these steps have been completed, a Return Permit for a Resident can be issued to the individual.
There is a fee of QR200 for this permit. Upon receiving the document, the resident abroad can enter the country. The resident should try to get a new card from the Expatriates Affairs Department after arriving in Qatar.
Summary
Having a Qatar ID is a crucial requirement for both nationals and residents in the country. It is necessary for all government-related activities, including obtaining licenses and receiving medical attention. The renewal of the ID is subject to an annual fee.
