Qatar introduces new visa policy, bars Nigerian men from solo visits

Nigerian men will no longer be able to obtain tourist or transit visas to Qatar unless they are traveling with their families, according to a new directive from the Gulf nation.

The Qatari government announced the restrictions in a recent notice, citing repeated cases of overstays by Nigerian travellers as the reason behind the move.

Alongside the new family-travel requirement, applicants are now mandated to provide proof of a confirmed return ticket and hotel booking. In addition, only five-star hotels will be accepted for visa processing.

The Ministry of Interior stated:“A confirmed return transfer must now be booked alongside your hotel before your tourist or transit visa can be processed.“Only females or families may apply. Male travellers are no longer eligible unless accompanied by their family. Only 5-star hotels are now accepted for visa qualification.”

These regulations apply not only to fresh applications but also to those already in progress, affecting Nigerians currently waiting for visa approval.

Qatar, though not a primary hub for long-term migration, has remained a popular destination for Nigerian tourists. Thousands of Nigerians visit the country annually, but the new rules are expected to significantly restrict solo leisure and short-term travel plans for male visitors.