To stop Nigerians visiting Qatar from overstaying their visa period, the government of Qatar has introduced tougher visa regulations for Nigerian travellers, restricting men from travelling without their families.
In a notice issued by TravelTank, an online travel agency, to its clients and a copy sighted by LEADERSHIP, the Qatari government, through its Interior Ministry, said the new rules, which take effect immediately, apply to both tourist and transit visas, and will also affect all pending applications.
Under the new rules, Nigerian men will no longer be eligible to obtain tourist or transit visas to Qatar unless they travel with their families.
The restrictions also mean that only women or families can apply for visas independently.
In addition, applicants are now required to book accommodation exclusively in 5-star hotels before their visas can be processed.
“The Qatar Ministry of Interior has announced updated visa regulations for Nigerian travellers, following recent cases of overstays. Please take note of the requirements below: “Key Changes Effective Immediately
“Mandatory Return Transfer: A confirmed return transfer must now be booked alongside your hotel before your tourist or transit visa can be processed.
“Restricted Eligibility: Only females or families may apply. Male travellers are no longer eligible unless accompanied by their family.
“Hotel Requirement: Only 5-star hotels are now accepted for visa qualification. Important: These requirements apply to all pending visa approvals.”
Meanwhile, travel experts have bemoaned the decision of some Nigerians to overstay their visa period in various countries visited.
They argue that the decision may not be unconnected to overstaying their visa period, which would always come with consequences, like the Qatari government announcement.
