MOI Qatar Return Permit – How to Get a Qatar Return Permit in 2025

The MOI Qatar Return Permit is a document issued by the Ministry of Interior (MOI) Qatar for residents who have stayed outside the country for more than 180 days. This permit allows them to return to Qatar legally and continue their residency. If a resident loses their Qatar ID (QID) or passport while abroad, they will also require this permit. The MOI Qatar Return Permit can be applied for online through the MOI portal or Metrash2 app. It is usually valid for 14 to 30 days and includes a fee. This permit is important to maintaining valid residency status.

What Is a Qatar Return Permit?

A Qatari return permit, also known as a re-entry permit, allows Qatari citizens with valid Qatari residency to return to Qatar after staying abroad for more than six months. Residents who have lost or misplaced their passports or residency cards abroad can also obtain the document. You can obtain Qatar return permits in various ways, depending on your unique circumstances.

Who Can Apply for a Qatar Return Permit

Return permits are available to the following categories:

• Residents, employees, and foreign nationals with a valid Qatar ID can apply for themselves
• Qatar ID holders applying for sponsored employees
• Residents of Qatar applying for their family members

You must have a return permit if you intend to leave Qatar for an extended period of time to ensure you won’t lose your residency status.

To obtain the permit, you must be a Qatari resident with a valid Qatar ID and residence permit. At least two weeks before your planned travel date, you should submit your request. 

Who Needs a Return Permit in Qatar?

A Return Permit may be required if:

• A valid RP has been valid for 180 days outside Qatar
• If you have lost your passport or your Residence Card (QID) while abroad
• You have been absent for a long period of time and need to return after being sponsored by a company, a private individual, or a Qatari national
• You have been on long-term leave and are entering under a Qatar entry permit program

A Return Permit is not the same as a pre-registration travel approval (which was mandatory during COVID-19) or a visit visa. QID holders returning to resume residency can take advantage of this program.

Qatar Return Permit Requirements

To obtain a Qatar return permit, the following documents are required:

• The applicant must provide their QID number.
• If you hold employment, please provide a copy of your establishment ID.
• Enter through sponsorship by using the sponsor’s QID.
• Credit/debit card.

How to Apply for a MOI Qatar Return Permit?

Getting a Qatar return visa can be fairly straightforward once you have confirmed your eligibility. To ensure a smooth process, please follow the steps outlined below accurately.

Step 2: Submit the Application

Prepare the following documents:

• Valid passport: Passports with a minimum validity of six months. Lost passports require a Lost Passport Certificate
• Qatar ID: Proving your residency status with your Qatar ID

Note: A re-entry permit can only be applied for by certain categories, such as expatriates who apply through their families, employees who apply through their employers, or housemaids who apply through their employers. Additional documents are required in these cases. These include:

• A sponsor must complete the application form

• Sponsor and sponsored passport copies
• QID or Establishment ID of the sponsor

Step 2: Submit the Application

A Qatar return permit can be applied for in several ways at the Qatar Ministry of Interior (MOI). Metrash App is the easiest and most convenient way to apply. You can also apply through the MOI’s official website if this option is not available to you.

You can apply through the Metrash App by following these steps:

• Download the app: It is available for iOS and Android devices
• Log in: Simply open the app and use your Qatar ID to log in
• From the home page, click “Visa”
• Go to “Operations” and select “Return Visa Permit”
• Your QID must be entered
• Pay a fee of 500 QAR (per person)
• Please review your information and submit the application

Follow these steps if you prefer to use the MOI’s Portal:

• Visit the website
• Log in using your QID or e-Gate credentials
• Go to “Services”—”Residency”—”Return Permit” to find “Return Permit”
• Complete the application by filling in the required information and uploading your documents
• Check, confirm, and submit the application

Step 3: Pay the fees

You must pay a processing fee when you submit your Qatar return permit application through the Metrash app or the MOI website. Depending on your status and the type of permit you’re applying for, the cost may vary. These are classified as follows:

• Sponsorship of a Qatari citizen: QAR 200
• Sponsorship of an expatriate resident: 500 QAR
• Corporate sponsorship: 500 QAR
• Passport lost: 200 QAR

As these charges may change, it’s best to check the most current information directly on the MOI.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

The Ministry of Interior will process your application within 1 to 2 working days. You can always check your application status online or by downloading the Metrash app since these times can vary. You will usually receive an update on your permit status through the app once it has been approved. You can resolve any issues or missing documents before traveling if the app notifies you.

Step 5: Receive the Permit

You will receive your re-entry permit once your application has been approved. During the period of 30 days that the permit is valid, you can return to the country. You will need to apply for a replacement permit if you do not return to Qatar during the validity period.

Should you return to Qatar after leaving, please ensure you have a printed copy of your permit with you.

How to Apply for MOI Qatar Return Permit Using the Metrash2 App

The Metrash2 app is the most convenient way to apply for the MOI Qatar Return Permit. It allows residents or their sponsors to apply directly from their smartphones without visiting a government office.

Step 1: Download the App

Visit the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS), search for “Metrash2”, and download the official app to your device.

Step 2: Log In to the Metrash2 App

Open the Metrash2 app, log in using your Qatar ID (QID) and registered mobile number, then enter the OTP sent to your phone.

Step 3: Access the Return Permit Section

From the main menu, tap “Visa”, then go to “Operations”, and select “Return Visa Permit”.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application

Enter the QID number, upload all required documents (passport, QID, sponsor details), and verify all information is correct.

Step 5: Pay the Fee

The standard fee is QAR 500, payable through the app using a valid credit or debit card.

Step 6: Submit and Wait for Approval

Review all details carefully, tap “Submit”, and wait 1 to 2 working days for updates in the Metrash2 app.

How to Apply for MOI Qatar Return Permit Offline

If you are unable to use the Metrash2 App or MOI online portal, you can still apply for an MOI Qatar Return Permit by visiting an MOI Service Center in person.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Bring the following with you:

• Valid passport (or Lost Passport Certificate if applicable)
• Qatar ID (QID) copy
• Sponsor’s QID or Establishment Card
• Completed Return Permit application form (available at the MOI center)
• Passport copies of sponsor and applicant

For domestic workers, students, and employees, the sponsor must accompany or represent the applicant.

Step 2: Visit the MOI Service Center

• Go to your nearest Ministry of Interior (MOI) branch or Immigration Office in Qatar.
• Request the Return Permit application counter.
• Submit your documents and completed application form to the official.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the applicable fee at the counter:

A receipt will be issued upon payment.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• The application is usually processed within 1–2 working days.
• You may be asked to return to the center to collect your approved return permit.
• In some cases, the permit is emailed or sent via SMS.

Step 5: Collect and Print the Return Permit

Once approved:

• Collect the printed permit directly from the MOI center or print it from your email/SMS.
• Carry the printed copy when you travel back to Qatar.

Validity of Qatar return permits

The validity of a return permit in Qatar is limited to 30 days, as specified on the document. During this period, residents can return to Qatar, and the permit will cease to function. Our team of specialists can assist you with all the necessary formalities to obtain a Qatar return permit.

Qatar Return Permit Fees by Sponsorship Type

1. Company or Business Sponsorship

• Fee: QAR 500
• For expats sponsored by a company who have been outside Qatar for more than 6 months
• Apply via Metrash2 or MoI Service Center

2. Family Sponsorship by an Expatriate

• Fee: QAR 500
• For dependents like spouse, children, or parents under a resident’s sponsorship
• Apply via Metrash2 or MoI Service Center

3. Personal Sponsorship by a Qatari Citizen

• Fee: QAR 200
• Applies to domestic workers such as housemaids or drivers
• Reduced fee to support citizens’ household employees
• Apply via Metrash2 or MoI Service Center

Payment Methods

• Pay using credit or debit card
• Cash is not accepted
• No extra service charges for Metrash2 online applications

Processing Time

• Usually takes 1 to 3 working days
• Online applications are processed faster
• Updates are sent via SMS or in the Metrash2 app
• For manual applications, follow up at the MoI Service Center if needed

Permit Validity

• Valid for 30 days from the date of issue
• You must enter Qatar within the validity period
• If it expires, reapply and pay the fee again

Important Reminders

• If the return permit is due to a lost passport, the old passport is blacklisted
• Your Qatar ID (QID) must remain valid during your stay abroad and when applying
• Use the MOI Qatar online visa check tool to confirm your return permit status
• For urgent issues or delays, contact the Qatar immigration office

Maximum Stay Outside Qatar with a Valid QID

As a Qatar resident with a valid Residence Permit (QID), you can remain outside the country for up to 180 consecutive days (six months). If you exceed this period without returning, you must obtain a Qatar Return Permit (also known as a re-entry visa) to come back—even if your QID is still valid.

This rule applies to:

• Employees sponsored by companies
• Family members under personal sponsorship
• Domestic workers under Qatari sponsorship

What If You Stay Outside Qatar for More Than 6 Months?

If you remain outside Qatar for over 6 months, your automatic re-entry rights will be blocked—even if your residency (QID) is still valid. The immigration system treats this as an overstayed absence, and you cannot re-enter unless your sponsor applies for a MOI Qatar Return Permit.

Qatar’s immigration laws strictly enforce this rule for all residency holders. To avoid entry denial or residency cancellation, it’s essential that your sponsor secures a return permit before your return.

Can You Stay Outside Qatar for Over 6 Months with Approval?

Yes, under specific conditions. You can remain abroad beyond 180 days if your sponsor gets prior approval or applies for a return permit due to:

• Medical treatment abroad
• Family emergencies
• Work or educational commitments

In these cases, sponsors may use the Metrash2 app or visit the MOI Service Center to arrange the return permit. This ensures you won’t lose re-entry rights despite a longer absence.

During the COVID-19 period, Qatar issued Exceptional Entry Permits. While these are no longer active, the Return Permit system now plays a similar role for long-term absentees.

Can You Extend Your Family’s Stay Outside Qatar?

• If your family members are in Qatar on a Family Visit Visa, and they stay beyond the allowed period, they are not eligible for a return permit. In such cases, special immigration approval is needed to extend their stay legally.
• However, if your spouse or children hold valid QIDs under your family sponsorship and have been outside Qatar for over 6 months, you can apply for a return permit—as long as their residency is still active.

What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost While Abroad

If you lose your passport outside Qatar, follow these steps:

1. Report the loss to local authorities and get a Lost Passport Certificate.
2. Have the certificate attested by the Qatar Embassy or Consulate in that country.
3. When applying for the MOI Qatar Return Permit, attach the attested certificate along with copies of both the old and new passports.

Note: Once a return permit is issued for a lost passport, your old passport becomes invalid and is blacklisted in Qatar’s immigration system.

Important Tips to Remember

• Return Permit has a limited validity, so always check the expiry date carefully.
• The sponsored person must return to Qatar before the permit expires.
• This permit does not replace a valid Qatar ID (QID) — your residency must still be active.
• Before traveling, always check your permit status through the MOI Qatar portal or by using the Qatar visa check online by passport number.

Important Rules and Exceptions for MOI Qatar Return Permits

Your Qatar Residency Must Be Valid

You can only apply for a MOI Qatar Return Permit if your Qatar ID (QID) is still valid. If your residency expires while you’re outside Qatar, you will not be allowed to apply. In such cases, you must either renew your residency or apply for a new visa before returning.

Maximum Time Abroad Without a Permit

Residents are allowed to stay outside Qatar for up to 180 days (6 months) without needing a return permit. If you exceed this duration, a return permit becomes mandatory. Failure to obtain one may result in entry denial at the border.

Lost Passport While Abroad

If your passport is lost or stolen, you can still apply for a return permit by submitting:

• A Lost Passport Certificate
• Copies of your old and new passports

Once the permit is granted, your old passport will be blacklisted and cannot be used again—even if found later.

Family Visit Visa Extensions

If someone on a Family Visit Visa stays longer than six months and travels out, a return permit may be required to re-enter. Extensions are reviewed case by case and must be approved by the Ministry of Interior (MOI).

Special Cases and Reduced Fees

• Housemaids, drivers, and personal staff sponsored by Qatari citizens may get reduced fees and have slightly different rules but still need to follow the 6-month rule.
• Students and diplomatic residents may be subject to special procedures. It’s best to check directly with the MOI or the relevant embassy.

Return Permit vs. Exit Permit

Don’t confuse the Return Permit with the Exit Permit.

• An Exit Permit allows temporary departure but doesn’t guarantee re-entry.
• A Return Permit is required if you stay outside Qatar longer than 180 days or lose your passport and need to re-enter.

Check Permit Status Online

Use the Metrash2 App or the official MOI Qatar website to track your return permit status. You can also check visa status using your passport number. This helps avoid issues at immigration.

Consequences of Not Applying

If you fail to apply for a return permit after exceeding the allowed stay:

• You may be denied entry at Qatar’s border
• Your residency may be cancelled
• You could face fines or penalties from MOI

Essential Tips for a Smooth Return Permit Application

1. Ensure Your QID is Valid

Always confirm that your Qatar ID (QID) is active before applying. Expired QIDs are not eligible for return permits.

2. Apply Through the Correct Sponsor

Only your registered sponsor (individual, company, or Qatari national) can apply for your return permit. Make sure they have all required documents.

3. Use Official Channels Only

Apply only via the Metrash2 App or by visiting an official MOI Service Center. Avoid third-party agents to prevent scams.

4. Keep Copies of All Documents

Save both digital and printed copies of your QID, passport, permit, and receipts. These are useful during application or immigration checks.

5. Check the Permit’s Validity Period

The return permit has a clear expiry date (usually 14–30 days). Return before it expires, or you’ll need to reapply.

6. Lost Passport? Get a Certificate First

Visit your nearest embassy to obtain a Lost Passport Certificate before applying. Without it, your permit may be delayed or denied.

7. Stay Updated with Immigration Rules

Qatar’s immigration laws may change. Regularly visit the MOI website or check trusted news to stay informed.

8. Plan Travel Ahead of Time

Don’t wait until the last minute. Since permit approval may take 1–2 working days or more, apply early before your return.

9. Never Overstay Without a Permit

If you’re outside Qatar for over 6 months without a return permit, your residency could be cancelled and re-entry denied. Always apply on time.

10. Keep Emergency Contacts Ready

When abroad, keep contact details for your sponsor, embassy, and MOI office. This helps in case of sudden issues with your documents.

Benefits of MOI Qatar Return Permit

FAQs About MOI Qatar Return Permit

Conclusion

The MOI Qatar Return Permit is essential for residents who have been outside Qatar for over 180 days or lost their travel documents. It ensures legal re-entry, protects residency status, and simplifies the return process through official MOI services.