How to Apply for Qatar ID? A Step-by-Step Guide
In a rapidly evolving world, identity is even more important than ever. Qatar, a country known for its technological advancements, recognizes this fact and has made QID cards a fundamental part of its society. These cards are not just a form of identification but an absolute necessity for everyday life in Qatar. In addition to conducting business at government buildings and enjoying discounts at local shops, Qatari ID cards are necessary for residents and citizens.
In this way, they protect thievery and allow individuals to function as fully-fledged members of society with rights and responsibilities. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor to Qatar or a local, your Qatar ID card is your ticket to the benefits of living in this dynamic and progressive country. The following is a complete guide to how to make Qatar ID, including its requirements.
Eligibility Criteria of Qatar ID
All Qataris must have a QID card as it serves as a form of identification and allows them to access several state services.
To obtain a Qatar ID, both Qatari citizens and expatriates must meet the following criteria:
Qatari citizens
In Qatar, all citizens, regardless of age, must possess a QID as a condition of residency.
Qatari expatriates
Individuals working in Qatar and their dependents, such as spouses and children, who plan to stay for at least one year must obtain a Qatari ID.
Qatari expat children
A Qatari ID card is also compulsory for children, including infants, born to expatriates who reside in Qatar.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Qatar ID
If you want to open a bank account, rent a property, or access government services, you will need a Qatar ID card, also known as a QID. You can apply for a Qatar ID card as follows:
Step 1: Go to Qatar’s Ministry of Interior Web
You can apply for Qatar ID online through the Ministry of Interior Qatar’s website. Click on Department Services, choose Official Documents Services, and then select Qatar ID Card Request to see the requirements.
Step 2: QID Application Required Documents
As part of the application process for Qatar ID, you will need to submit several documents, including:
Medical screening: To obtain a certificate of good health, you must undergo a medical examination.
Photo(s): A minimum of two photographs is necessary for anyone under the age of 12 and those over the age of 65.
Blood tests: Testing for infectious diseases and blood groups are also required.
Copy of passport: Proof of your passport must appear as a photocopy.
Application form: Download the application form from the Ministry of Interior website. Fill it out and affix the attestation.
Copy of birth certificate: A copy of your birth certificate is required.
Biometrics: It is also necessary for you to provide your fingerprints for verification.
Parent’s ID photocopy: You must submit a photocopy of your parent’s ID.
Consent letter: Under 18 years of age, you must provide a consent letter from your parents.
In-person: The first time you apply for a Qatar ID, you must appear in person.
Step 3: QID application payment
Generally, it is the employer’s responsibility to pay the expenses related to the application for the Qatar ID card, in addition to any documents that may be required.
After successfully applying for QID you can view the status by visiting the Moi Qatar ID Check page online.
Qatar ID Types and Features
Qatar issues two identity cards for Qataris and expatriates to access healthcare, education, and financial transactions. Understanding their differences will help you avoid confusion and ensure smooth service access.
Qatar IDs come in two general categories: Qatari and expat.
State of Qatar ID Card
Qatari citizens get this “State of Qatar ID Card,” which contains their photo, name, date of birth, nationality, ID number, expiration date, and signature.
State of Qatar Residency Permit
The State of Qatar Residency Permit card for expatriates contains photographs, names, dates of birth, nationalities, occupations, work addresses, passport information, signatures, and QID numbers.
How Qatar Smart ID Cards work
In recent years, Qatar Smart ID Cards have grown in popularity due to their many benefits over regular plastic cards. Here are some of those benefits:
Microchip Embedded
An embedded electronic chip on Smart ID Cards contains digital data. The chip includes essential information about a cardholder, including the cardholder’s name, date of birth, nationality, ID number, fingerprints, and digital photos.
Improved Security
Compared to traditional cards, smart ID cards have an electronic chip that makes it difficult for fraudsters to alter or duplicate the information. This increased security helps to prevent identity theft and other types of fraud.
For Government Transactions
A Smart ID Card with an electronic chip is suitable for online transactions with the government. The cardholder inserts the card into a card reader, and the government offers services.
Optional For Expats
As an expatriate resident of Qatar, you can choose to have a Smart ID Card by paying an additional QR 100. This fee covers the costs of producing the card and its other security features.
Secure E-Gate
At the Hamad International Airport, the Smart ID Card is advantageous because the e-gate facility allows seamless entry and exit of the country, even for residents with regular ID cards.
FAQs
Do all residents and citizens of Qatar need Qatar ID?
Yes, all Qatar citizens and residents must have a Qatari ID to be eligible to live life in Qatar.
Is there an eligibility requirement for Qatar ID applications?
The Qatar ID card is mandatory for all Qatari residents, regardless of age, and for expatriates who have been living in Qatar for at least one year and children born to expatriates residing in Qatar.
Do I need to provide any documents to apply for a Qatar ID?
In fact, the required documents vary depending on the type of card and the applicant’s status. The application generally requires a copy of the applicant’s passport, a copy of their residency or citizenship, a Qatari national address certificate, a medical examination, and blood tests.
What is the processing time for Qatar ID card?
Qatar ID card generally take a few days and several weeks to process, depending on the type and the requirements.
What is the status of my Qatar ID card application?
You can check the status of your Qatar ID card application on the MOI website or the Metrash2 app.
Conclusion
Qatari citizens and residents must have an ID card to use essential healthcare, education, and financial services. Further, you can track the application status and renew the card online by providing the necessary documents and undergoing a medical examination. Therefore, having a QID card is imperative to fully benefit from living in Qatar.
