Visa & QVC Guide
How to apply for your Qatar visa through the Qatar Visa Center (QVC)
📋 Types of Qatar Visas for Sri Lankans
Work Visa
⏱ 2–6 weeksSponsored by your employer in Qatar. Most common for Sri Lankans. Your employer initiates the process.
Family Visa
⏱ 3–8 weeksFor family members joining a resident in Qatar. Requires NOC from sponsor and income proof.
Visit Visa
⏱ 1–3 weeksShort-term visit for tourism or family visits. Can be obtained on arrival for SL passport holders.
Student Visa
⏱ 4–8 weeksFor students enrolled in Qatar educational institutions. Requires acceptance letter from institution.
🏛️ QVC Step-by-Step Process
Employer Submits Application
Your employer in Qatar submits your visa application via the QVC online portal or in person at QVC office in Doha.
Documents Collection in Sri Lanka
Visit QVC Sri Lanka office (Colombo). Submit: Passport, Biometrics, Medical test, Police clearance, Education certificates.
Medical Examination
Complete medical exam at an approved medical center. Must be done before visa stamp.
Biometrics & Fingerprints
Submit fingerprints and photo at the QVC center in Colombo.
Visa Stamp & Travel
Once approved, collect your visa. Book your flight with SriLankan Airlines. You're ready to fly to Doha! ✈️
⏰ First 48 Hours in Qatar
First 2 Hours
- ✓ Collect luggage & clear immigration
- ✓ Get Qatar stamp in passport
- ✓ Meet driver / employer representative
- ✓ Exchange small amount to QAR (airport rate ok for first day)
- ✓ Download Metrash2 app while at airport WiFi
Day 1 (Hours 1–12)
- ✓ Get to your accommodation safely
- ✓ Get a SIM card — Ooredoo or Vodafone Qatar
- ✓ Buy groceries from nearest Carrefour / LuLu
- ✓ Locate nearest Sri Lankan restaurant for a proper meal 😄
- ✓ Rest! Jet lag is real.
Day 2 (Hours 24–48)
- ✓ Complete residency fingerprints with employer
- ✓ Open bank account (Qatar Islamic Bank / CBQ recommended)
- ✓ Register in Metrash2 app with QID
- ✓ Save Helpline number: 0766356997
- ✓ Join our Qatar API WhatsApp community!
Week 1
- ✓ Receive your QID (Qatar ID card)
- ✓ Set up mobile banking
- ✓ Explore the Metro system (Gold line to CBD)
- ✓ Find your nearest LuLu Hypermarket
- ✓ Send money home via best exchange rate
Month 1
- ✓ Understand the Metrash2 app fully
- ✓ Get a Karwa card for Metro
- ✓ Find Sri Lankan community groups
- ✓ Explore Doha — Katara, Souq Waqif, Corniche
- ✓ Start saving systematically
Essential Apps
- ✓ Metrash2 — Government services
- ✓ Karwa — Taxi / Metro card
- ✓ Talabat — Food delivery
- ✓ SEHA — Health services
- ✓ Qatar API — Community hub (you are here!)
- ✓ WhatsApp — Main communication tool
📱 Metrash2 & Government Apps
Essential Qatar government apps every Sri Lankan must have
Metrash2
Qatar Ministry of Interior — Official App
The #1 most important app for residents in Qatar. Handles all government services from your phone.
Key Features:
📡 Other Essential Apps
SEHA Qatar
Book doctor appointments at public hospitals. Free healthcare for residents.
Karwa / Metro
Qatar Metro and Karwa bus system. Tap-to-pay with Karwa card. Very affordable!
Talabat
Food delivery app. Many Sri Lankan restaurants available. Order in Sinhala via WhatsApp too.
Baladiya
Municipal services, business license applications, and local government services.
Google Maps
Works great in Qatar. Use to find Sri Lankan restaurants, exchange shops, and navigate.
Qatar API (this site!)
Your community hub for exchange rates, jobs, businesses, news, and more!
📄 Documents You Must Bring
Passport
Valid minimum 6 months
Passport Photos
6 recent photos, white background
Medical Reports
From approved medical center
Educational Certificates
Attested by Ministry, Embassy
Police Clearance
From nearest police station
Employment Contract
Signed by employer
Medical Prescriptions
If on regular medication
Small Cash (USD/QAR)
For first few days