2 - 3 months
The Qatar Residency by Investment Program is a strategic initiative by the Qatari government to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), business investors, and entrepreneurs by offering them long-term residency in exchange for qualifying investments. It is part of the country’s broader plan to diversify its economy beyond oil and natural gas and position itself as a hub for business, finance, and innovation in the Gulf region.
Living in Qatar is safe, comfortable, and family-friendly. The country has modern homes, good roads, and many shopping malls and restaurants. Families can choose from top international schools and get access to excellent hospitals. Life in cities like Doha is clean and organized, and people from many different countries live and work there. It’s a great place to enjoy both modern living and traditional Arab culture.
| Tax Type | Implications in Qatar |
| Personal Income Tax | No personal income tax on individuals |
| Corporate Income Tax | 10% flat tax on profits of foreign-owned companies; exemptions for Qatari-owned businesses; 35%+ for oil & gas sector |
| Withholding Tax (WHT) | 5% on payments to non-residents for services, interest, royalties, and commissions; no WHT on payments to residents |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | Qatar currently does not apply VAT or sales tax, but a 5% VAT is expected soon as part of the GCC common framework. |
| Excise Duty | 50–100% on specific goods like tobacco and sugary drinks |
Key Facts
Capital
Languages
Currency
Population
Housing Costs
Qatar offers a diverse range of real estate options, catering to various budgets and preferences. Popular areas like West Bay, The Pearl-Qatar, and Lusail provide high-end apartments and villas, while other neighborhoods offer more affordable housing. Foreigners can buy property in designated freehold areas, making Qatar an attractive destination for real estate investment.
Utilities
Utility costs in Qatar, including electricity, water, and gas, are generally moderate. However, bills can vary seasonally, especially during the hot summer months when air conditioning usage increases. Despite this, overall utility expenses remain reasonable compared to global averages.
Transportation
Fuel prices in Qatar are subsidized, resulting in low costs for private vehicle use. Public transportation options, such as buses and the Doha Metro, are expanding, but many residents prefer personal cars for convenience.
Groceries and Dining
Groceries in Qatar range from affordable local markets to international supermarkets, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets. Dining out is popular and varies widely in price, with numerous restaurants serving diverse cuisines that cater to both budget-conscious and luxury seekers.
Healthcare and Education
Qatar provides high-quality healthcare through both public and private providers. While public healthcare is affordable and accessible, private healthcare services tend to be more expensive. Education options include public schools and a range of international private schools, with tuition fees varying accordingly.
Leisure and Entertainment
Residents in Qatar enjoy a variety of leisure activities, including shopping malls, cultural events, sports facilities, and outdoor adventures. Costs for entertainment such as gym memberships, cinema tickets, and travel are generally reasonable, supporting a well-rounded and vibrant lifestyle.
Step 1: Preliminary Screening and Eligibility Evaluation
Conduct an internal review to verify the applicant’s qualifications and ensure they meet the basic criteria for the residency program.
Step 2: Application Review and Agreement Formalization
Carefully examine the submitted application details, then proceed to finalize and sign the necessary agreements between the applicant and relevant authorities.
Step 3: Registration on the Qatar e-Government Platform
Create a user account on the official Qatar e-Government portal to facilitate online submission and tracking of the residency application.
Step 4: Document Collection and Submission
Gather all required supporting documents and upload or submit them through the designated channels for official processing.
Step 5: Application Evaluation and Background Verification
Authorities perform detailed processing of the application, including comprehensive due diligence checks and background verifications to ensure compliance.
Step 6: Issuance of Residency Visa
Upon successful approval, the residency visa is granted, enabling the applicant to legally reside and work in Qatar under the program’s terms.
The average processing time for the Qatar Golden Visa ranges from 2 to 8 weeks, subject to timely submission of documents and background verifications.
The application fee for the Qatar Golden Visa varies depending on the type of residence permit and investment amount. Applicants are advised to check the official Qatar Ministry of Interior website for the most up-to-date fee structure.
Qatar continues to allow Golden Visa applicants to include close family members as dependents under the following categories:
In Qatar, a standard residence permit is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually. However, for those who obtain residency through investment or the Golden Visa, the residency status is valid for up to 5 years and is renewable, provided the investment or business criteria continue to be met.
Read more:
Get Free Consultation
Program Summary
Learn more about the country and it's citizenship by investment.
Applicants can sponsor their spouse, children, and parents as dependents under one Qatar Golden Visa application.
The application process generally takes between 2 to 8 weeks following submission, depending on document completeness and due diligence checks.
Ensure all required documents are accurate, submit them on time, and follow official guidelines closely to prevent application delays or rejection.
Yes, Qatar offers a Golden Visa program granting long-term residency through qualifying real estate or business investments.
Currently, there are no official minimum stay requirements for maintaining the Qatar Golden Visa residency status
Yes, Qatar Golden Visa holders have the right to live and work in Qatar independently without the need for a local employer sponsorship.
