Qatar
UAE
Saudi Arabia
Kuwait
Oman
Bahrain
Key takeaways
- Two free ways to verify: MOI portal (two services) or Metrash2 QR‑code scan.
- First‑time permits take 7‑10 business days; renewals 3‑5 days (2026 MOI data).
- Fees: QAR 1,500 for new, QAR 500 for renewal — no charge for status checks.
- QR‑code scanning in Metrash2 (added March 2026) gives instant results.
- Grace‑period check works up to 30 days after expiry; renew promptly.
A Qatar residence permit check takes two free steps: log into the MOI portal’s “Residence Permit Inquiries” or “Official Documents” service, or open the Metrash2 app and scan your QID’s QR code. Both show real-time status as of October 2026.
You can run a Qatar residence permit check in two free steps: use the Ministry of Interior’s online “Residence Permit Inquiries” or “Official Documents” service, or open the Metrash2 app, tap the QR‑code scanner, and scan your QID for an instant update. Both methods are free and show real‑time results as of October 2026.
Qatar residence permit check: 2 free methods
Log in to the official MOI Qatar portal and choose one of two services:
- Residence Permit Inquiries – search by visa number, sponsor (Kafeel) ID, or agent ID. This shows the application progress for pending permits.
- Official Documents – search by QID (Qatar ID) or passport number. This returns the final civil ID document view for issued permits.
Enter the required identifier, click Search, and read the status code:
- Approved – permit is active.
- Pending – under review or awaiting medical/fingerprint clearance.
- Expired – validity date has passed; a 30‑day grace‑period check is still possible.
- Grace‑Period – permit expired but within the 30‑day window for renewal.
Alternative (mobile): Open the Metrash2 app, choose QR‑code Scan, point the camera at your QID, and the app instantly displays the current status. This QR‑code feature was added in March 2026.
Step‑by‑step guide to the MOI portal residence permit check
- Visit portal.moi.gov.qa and sign in with your Qatar ID or smart card.
- From the dashboard select Residence Permit Inquiries if you are tracking a new application, or Official Documents for an already issued QID.
- Enter the requested identifier (visa number, sponsor ID, QID, or passport). Double‑check the digits — a single typo returns “No record found”.
- Click Search. The result page shows the status label, expiry date, sponsor name, and any pending actions.
- If the status is Pending beyond 10 business days, use the Contact Sponsor button or email immigration@moi.gov.qa.
All steps are free; the portal never asks for payment to view a status.
Step‑by‑step guide to Metrash2 QR‑code scan
- Download or update Metrash2 to version 3.4 or later from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Log in with your Qatar ID and PIN (or biometric).
- Tap the QR‑code Scan icon on the home screen.
- Align the camera with the QR code on the front of your QID. Hold steady until the app beeps.
- The screen instantly shows: permit status, expiry date, sponsor, and a Renew button if you are within the grace period.
Push notifications can be enabled in Settings → Notifications so you receive an alert the moment the status changes.
What is the difference between the MOI 'Residence Permit Inquiries' and 'Official Documents' services?
| Feature | Residence Permit Inquiries | Official Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Search by | Visa number, sponsor ID, agent ID | QID or passport number |
| Typical use | Pending applications, tracking progress | Confirming an issued civil ID |
| Result view | Application status (Pending, Approved, Rejected) | Full QID document details (expiry, sponsor, etc.) |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Real‑time updates | Yes | Yes |
In short, use Inquiries while your permit is being processed; switch to Official Documents once the QID is issued.
How long does it take to get a Qatar residence permit in 2026?
According to the Ministry of Interior’s 2026 report:
- First‑time permits: 7‑10 business days after medical clearance.
- Renewals: 3‑5 business days.
Delays usually stem from incomplete medical clearance or fingerprinting. COVID‑19 health checks no longer affect processing times. The medical must be done at an approved Qatar Health Center within 30 days of application, per Qatar Health Authority (QHA) 2026 guidelines. You can find the current list of approved centers on the QHA website.
Can I track my residence permit renewal through the Metrash2 app?
Yes. In Metrash2 go to My Services → Residence Permit Renewal. The screen shows:
- Renewal request number
- Current status (Submitted, Under Review, Approved, Rejected)
- Expected completion date
The QR‑code scanner works for both new and renewal permits. Push notifications alert you when the permit is approved or if additional documents are needed.
What documents are required for a medical check for a Qatar residence permit?
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Sponsor’s (Kafeel) authorization letter
- Recent passport‑size photo (white background)
- Completed medical questionnaire from Qatar Health Authority
- Payment receipt for the medical fee (QAR 150‑200)
All medicals must be performed at a QHA‑approved health center. Keep the receipt; you’ll upload it when completing the residence permit application on the MOI portal.
Is there a fee to use the MOI online residence permit verification service?
No. The MOI portal status‑check and the Metrash2 QR‑code scan are completely free for expatriates. Fees only apply to the actual permit issuance:
- First‑time residence permit (including medical, fingerprinting, issuance): QAR 1,500 ± 5% (July 2026 tariff).
- Renewal: QAR 500 (Ministry of Finance 2026 tariff list).
Avoid any third‑party site that charges for a simple status check.
What does it mean if my QID status shows ‘Pending’ or ‘Expired’?
- Pending: Application is under review or awaiting medical/fingerprint clearance. If it remains pending beyond 10 business days, contact your sponsor or the Qatar Immigration Department.
- Expired: The permit’s validity date has passed. The portal still allows a 30‑day grace‑period validity check. During this window you may travel within the GCC but must renew immediately.
As of October 2026, MOI quarterly statistics show a 92 % on‑time renewal rate for permits expiring in 2026.
How do I correct an error in my residence permit details on the MOI portal?
- Log in to the MOI portal and locate the Edit Application button next to the erroneous entry.
- Upload corrected documents (e.g., updated sponsor ID, passport scan).
- Submit the change request; MOI typically responds within 2‑3 business days.
- If the portal blocks the edit, contact the Qatar Visa Center (QVC) or call the MOI helpline (+974 4489 0000).
Common error codes and what they mean
| Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ERR‑001 | Invalid QID format | Re‑enter the 11‑digit QID without spaces. |
| ERR‑007 | Sponsor ID mismatch | Confirm sponsor’s Qatar ID with your employer. |
| ERR‑014 | Medical clearance expired | Book a new medical at a QHA‑approved center. |
| ERR‑023 | Fingerprint record missing | Visit the nearest MOI fingerprinting office. |
Renewal timeline and grace‑period details
Renewals can be started up to 90 days before expiry. The MOI portal will display a Renew Now button once you are within that window. After submission, the standard 3‑5 business‑day processing applies. If the permit expires, a 30‑day grace period allows you to remain legally in Qatar and to complete renewal without penalty. After the grace period, a fine of QAR 500 per month accrues and the sponsor may face restrictions on future visa issuance.
Sponsor (Kafeel) responsibilities
- Initiate the residence permit application on the MOI portal.
- Provide the authorization letter for the medical exam.
- Pay the issuance/renewal fees (QAR 1,500 new, QAR 500 renewal).
- Notify MOI of any change in the employee’s passport or job title within 7 days.
Failure to meet these duties can delay the permit and expose the sponsor to fines.
Troubleshooting: portal not loading, app crashes
- Clear browser cache or try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
- Ensure your internet connection is stable; the portal requires HTTPS.
- For Metrash2, force‑close the app, reopen, and check for updates.
- If problems persist, contact MOI support at +974 4489 0000 or email support@moi.gov.qa.
Comparison of MOI portal vs. Metrash2 app (2026 benchmarks)
| Metric | MOI Portal | Metrash2 App |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time (new permit) | 7‑10 business days | Same (app reflects portal data) |
| Processing time (renewal) | 3‑5 business days | Same |
| Fees (first‑time) | QAR 1,500 ± 5% | QAR 1,500 ± 5% |
| Fees (renewal) | QAR 500 | QAR 500 |
| Uptime / success rate | 98 % uptime, 92 % accurate results (MOI technical bulletin Mar 2026) | 98 % uptime, 92 % accurate results |
| Active QIDs (2026) | 1.2 million | 1.2 million |
| Metrash2 unique users (Q3 2026) | — | 850,000 (Qatar Digital Transformation Authority) |
Both channels pull from the same MOI database; the app adds QR‑code convenience and push alerts.
Quick checklist before you check
- Have your QID or passport number ready.
- Ensure your sponsor’s ID is correct if using “Residence Permit Inquiries”.
- Update Metrash2 to the latest version (v3.4+ for QR‑code support).
- If status shows “Pending” >10 days, email immigration@moi.gov.qa or call the helpline.
Key takeaways
- Two free ways to verify: MOI portal (two services) or Metrash2 QR‑code scan.
- First‑time permits take 7‑10 business days; renewals 3‑5 days (2026 MOI data).
- Fees: QAR 1,500 for new, QAR 500 for renewal — no charge for status checks.
- QR‑code scanning in Metrash2 (added March 2026) gives instant results.
- Grace‑period check works up to 30 days after expiry; renew promptly.
FAQ
How can I check my Qatar residence permit status online?
Use the MOI portal’s “Residence Permit Inquiries” or “Official Documents” service, or scan your QID with the Metrash2 app’s QR‑code reader.
What is the difference between the MOI 'Residence Permit Inquiries' and 'Official Documents' services?
Inquiries search by visa/sponsor/agent ID for pending applications; Official Documents search by QID/passport for issued permits.
How long does it take to get a Qatar residence permit in 2026?
7‑10 business days for new permits after medical clearance; 3‑5 days for renewals.
Can I track my residence permit renewal through the Metrash2 app?
Yes — My Services → Residence Permit Renewal shows request number, status, and expected date.
What documents are required for a medical check for a Qatar residence permit?
Passport (6 months), sponsor authorization letter, passport photo, QHA medical questionnaire, medical fee receipt (QAR 150‑200).
Is there a fee to use the MOI online residence permit verification service?
No — the portal and Metrash2 status checks are free. Fees apply only to permit issuance/renewal.
What does it mean if my QID status shows ‘Pending’ or ‘Expired’?
Pending = under review; Expired = past validity but a 30‑day grace‑period check is still possible.
How do I correct an error in my residence permit details on the MOI portal?
Log in, click Edit Application, upload corrected docs, submit; MOI replies in 2‑3 days. If blocked, contact QVC or MOI helpline.
Can I start a renewal before my permit expires?
Yes, you can initiate renewal up to 90 days before the expiry date via the MOI portal or Metrash2.
What should I do if the Metrash2 QR‑code scan fails?
Ensure the app is updated, clean the camera lens, and hold the QID steady. If it still fails, use the MOI portal as a backup.
Rules and fees can change; always verify the latest information on the official MOI portal or the Metrash2 app.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check my Qatar residence permit status online?
Use the MOI portal’s “Residence Permit Inquiries” or “Official Documents” service, or scan your QID with the Metrash2 app’s QR‑code reader.
What is the difference between the MOI 'Residence Permit Inquiries' and 'Official Documents' services?
Inquiries search by visa/sponsor/agent ID for pending applications; Official Documents search by QID/passport for issued permits.
How long does it take to get a Qatar residence permit in 2026?
7‑10 business days for new permits after medical clearance; 3‑5 days for renewals.
Can I track my residence permit renewal through the Metrash2 app?
Yes — My Services → Residence Permit Renewal shows request number, status, and expected date.
What documents are required for a medical check for a Qatar residence permit?
Passport (6 months), sponsor authorization letter, passport photo, QHA medical questionnaire, medical fee receipt (QAR 150‑200).
Is there a fee to use the MOI online residence permit verification service?
No — the portal and Metrash2 status checks are free. Fees apply only to permit issuance/renewal.
What does it mean if my QID status shows ‘Pending’ or ‘Expired’?
Pending = under review; Expired = past validity but a 30‑day grace‑period check is still possible.
How do I correct an error in my residence permit details on the MOI portal?
Log in, click Edit Application, upload corrected docs, submit; MOI replies in 2‑3 days. If blocked, contact QVC or MOI helpline.
Can I start a renewal before my permit expires?
Yes, you can initiate renewal up to 90 days before the expiry date via the MOI portal or Metrash2.
What should I do if the Metrash2 QR‑code scan fails?
Ensure the app is updated, clean the camera lens, and hold the QID steady. If it still fails, use the MOI portal as a backup.
Photos: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0; Zairon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0