Why Move to Qatar?
Qatar is a country full of potential, offering boundless financial opportunities and the highest standards in quality of life, reflected in the country’s healthcare and education systems. With one of the most promising and booming economies, Qatar further enhances its appeal by offering an attractive tax regime.
While Qatar is an economic haven, it is the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, unique beaches, and vibrant, investment-driven, futuristic environment—all perfectly woven together—that make the idea of moving to Qatar the best one yet.
Fast facts
In 2022, Qatar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the Men’s Soccer FIFA World Cup, bringing the country to the international spotlight. In 2023, Qatar earned the title of the safest Middle Eastern country in the world, ranking 21st in the Global Peace Index. Qatari-ethnic nationals are the minority in their own country, making up roughly only 15% of the population, with the rest being migrant workers. Before the discovery of petroleum and natural gas reserves, the Qatari economy depended highly on fishing, pearl diving, and trading.
- Population: 2.7 million (2023 est.)
- Capital City: Doha
- Climate: Qatar has a subtropical desert climate, with hot, humid summers and cool, pleasant winters
- Time Zone: Arabia Standard Time (AST) / UTC+03,00
- Language: Arabic
- Country Code: +974
- Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
- Economy: Petroleum, natural gas, energy, tourism
- GDP Per/Cap: USD $66,799
- Borders: Saudi Arabia; maritime borders with Bahrain and the UAE
Lifestyle
Qatar perfectly blends traditional values, modern and luxurious living, and futuristic innovation into its everyday life. Its stunning skyscrapers adorn the most modern cities, and its pristine beaches offer one-of-a-kind experiences. Embrace the unique cultural wealth Qatar has to offer, including desert adventures, plus all its luxurious, world-class amenities.
Cost of living
Despite being one of the wealthiest countries globally and boasting some of the highest standards of living, Qatar is also affordable. With competitive prices for essentials and a range of housing options to suit various financial plans, including a Golden Visa Temporary Residency option, Qatar provides opportunities for individuals with diverse budgets.
Safety
Safety is of cornerstone importance in Qatar, with the country ranking 21st in the 2023 Global Peace Index, the most out of any Middle Eastern country, and in front of countries such as Australia, Norway, and Sweden. Expats will not have any issues when out to explore Qatar’s vibrant cultural heritage and calm streets.
Healthcare
With its state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure, Qatar provides world-class healthcare to its residents. The country ensures the well-being of everyone with comprehensive healthcare coverage. By moving to Qatar and becoming a Permanent Resident with the country’s Golden Visa, an investor gains access to the country’s healthcare system.
Education
Qatar boasts an exceptional education system, renowned for its high standards and innovative approaches. The country has a variety of international schools and prestigious universities, offering expats and their families a wide range of opportunities for all students regardless of age or background.
Language
Since Qataris are the actual minority in their country, Qatar positions itself as a multicultural and diverse society. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, and even used in some official capacity. Expats moving to Qatar will not find any issues with communication.
Money and taxes
The country’s official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). As one of the world’s economic powerhouses, Qatar boasts some of the largest reserves of oil and gas. With no income tax and favorable corporate rates, it stands as an attractive destination for business-driven individuals seeking to optimize their financial situation.
Popular Destinations
Doha
Lusail
Al Khor
Dukhan
Madinat ash Shamal
Al Ruwais
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Download Our BrochureDo I Need a Visa to Move to Qatar?
Yes. The only exception applies to nationals from countries within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), since they are not required to have a Visa to travel between participating member countries, similar to the European Union. Otherwise, you will need a Visa to move to Qatar. The best way to do so is through the country’s Golden Visa, which provides direct paths to Residency without the need for a sponsor.
Moving to Qatar as an EU citizen
EU citizens are entitled to visa-free travel and entry into the country for 90 days, enabling them plenty of time to visit the country before deciding to move to Qatar. Beyond that, Qatar allows all EU citizens to endeavor through its Golden Visa and settle in the country as their Second Residency.
Moving to Qatar as a non-EU citizen
Qatar also extends the same 90-day visa-free travel to some non-EU countries, though to others, this is restricted to 30 days. Regardless, it is enough time to visit the country and get a feel of the environment before moving to Qatar. The country may impose some restrictions, not accepting applications from certain nationalities.
Moving to Qatar Through Investment Visa Programs
Qatar unlocks 2 different paths to Residency in the country with its Golden Visa program, both available through Real Estate investments. To acquire Temporary Residency, an investment of QAR 730,000 (approximately USD $200,000) is required. For Permanent Residency, the investment is more substantial, at QAR 3,65 million (roughly USD $1 million). Endeavoring through both programs requires the investor to spend a minimum of 90 days per year in the country.
How can I gain Citizenship in Qatar?
Qatari citizenship is obtainable through descent, marriage, and naturalization. After becoming a Permanent Resident through the country’s Golden Visa, you may apply for Citizenship through naturalization after 25 years of legally residing in the country. It is important to note Qatar does not recognize Dual Citizenship, which would mean giving up your original citizenship to acquire the Qatari passport.
How to obtain Permanent Residency in Qatar?
The fastest way to obtain Permanent Residency in through the Qatar Golden Visa. With an investment of QAR 3,65 million (roughly USD $1 million), an applicant becomes a Permanent Resident and bypasses the time required until the legal status. The alternative is to reside in Qatar for 20 years until becoming a Permanent Resident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Qatar is the perfect location to establish second residency, with the country offering exclusive benefits to its Golden Visa holders, especially to those endeavoring through the Permanent Residency option, including access to its world-class healthcare, and education systems, alongside access to boundless financial investment opportunities, in one of the safest countries in the world.
Yes. Even though Arabic is the country’s official language, English is still widely spoken across the country, considering the majority of Qatar’s population is composed by expats and migrant workers.
Yes. You can bring your family with you when moving to Qatar. You can request family reunification after obtaining your Residency permit with the Permanent Residency option.
As a country in which the population of foreign nationals far exceeds the local Qatari, there are expat communities to be found all over Qatar. Regardless, the largest ones are definitely set in Doha, the capital.
There is no set amount for the final cost of how much the Qatar Golden Visa might cost, but moving to the country will require at least around USD $200,000 for the Temporary Residency option, and roughly USD $1 million for the Permanent Residency option.
No. Once the documentation and your application has been processed and approved via the Qatar Golden Visa, you can easily relocate to the country whenever you desire.
Paul Smith
Investment Advisor
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