Qatar
UAE
Saudi Arabia
Kuwait
Oman
Bahrain
Key takeaways
- Qatar e-gate cuts immigration time to ~30 seconds using biometrics.
- Free for residents; QAR 200 for visitors from 33+ eligible countries.
- Register via Metrash2 app or at airport counters; validity 5 years (residents) or 1 year (visitors).
- Works at all Hamad International Airport terminals and Abu Samra border.
- Minors can use e-gate if registered by a guardian and accompanied.
The Qatar e-gate system lets eligible expats—residents, GCC residents, and citizens of 33+ countries—clear immigration in ~30 seconds using biometrics. Registration is free for residents and QAR 200 for visitors. You can sign up via the Metrash2 app or at airport counters.
What is the Qatar e-gate and who is it for?
The Qatar e-gate is an automated biometric immigration system that uses fingerprint and facial recognition to process travelers in seconds—no queueing for an officer or passport stamp. It's designed for frequent flyers who value speed.
Eligibility categories
- Qatar residents – valid QID and residence permit
- GCC residents – valid GCC residence permit and passport from an eligible nationality
- Citizens of 33+ countries – including UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, all EU/Schengen states, and more. See the full list on the MOI website.
2026 updates
As of early 2026, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa were added to the eligible list. The minimum age remains 18 (minors can register with a guardian).
Where it works
E-gates are available 24/7 at all passenger terminals of Hamad International Airport (HIA) and at the Abu Samra land border.
Benefits
- Skip queues – average processing time ~30 seconds
- No passport stamp needed
- Faster travel, especially during peak hours
Qatar e-gate eligibility requirements for expats
Resident permit holders
- Valid Qatar ID and residence permit
- No criminal record
- Biometric data (fingerprints and facial scan) already captured during RP issuance
GCC residents
- Valid GCC residence permit (from any GCC country)
- Passport from an eligible nationality (e.g., UK, US, EU, etc.)
- Biometrics must be on file with Qatari authorities
Tourists/visitors
- Passport from one of the 33+ eligible countries
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Biometrics captured at the e-gate counter or during a previous visit
Biometric requirement
You must have your fingerprints and facial scan registered in the Qatari system. For residents, this is done when you get your RP. For visitors, you can do it at the e-gate counter at the airport.
Age limit
Minimum 18 years old. Minors can use e-gates if registered by a guardian and accompanied during travel.
How to register for Qatar e-gate: step-by-step guide
You can register via the Metrash2 app or at the e-gate counter at HIA. Here's the full process:
Step 1: Download the Metrash2 app
Available on iOS and Android. Log in using your QID number and password (for residents) or passport number (for visitors).
Step 2: Select 'E-Gate Registration'
From the main menu, choose 'E-Gate Registration' under the 'Services' tab.
Step 3: Fill in your details
Enter your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, and QID (if resident). Upload a clear passport-style photo if prompted.
Step 4: Agree to terms
Review the terms and conditions, then accept.
Step 5: Pay the fee
Registration is free for Qatar residents. Visitors pay QAR 200 (approx. USD 55) via credit/debit card or wallet.
Step 6: Receive confirmation
You'll get a confirmation message within 24 hours. If you register at the airport counter, activation is instant.
Validity
- Residents: 5 years (or until RP expiry, whichever comes first)
- Visitors: 1 year
Qatar e-gate vs. traditional immigration
| Feature | E-Gate | Traditional Immigration |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ~30 seconds | 5-10 minutes (can be longer during peak) |
| Convenience | No queue, 24/7 | Must queue at manned counters |
| Availability | All terminals at HIA, Abu Samra | Same locations |
| Cost | Free for residents, QAR 200 for visitors | Free |
| Reliability | Generally high; occasional technical glitches | Always available |
Pros of e-gate
- No queues – saves time
- 24/7 availability
- No passport stamp (digital record)
Cons of e-gate
- Requires biometrics on file
- Not available for all nationalities
- Occasional technical glitches may redirect you to manual counter
Pros of traditional immigration
- Works for everyone, no registration needed
- No biometric requirement
Cons of traditional immigration
- Longer wait times, especially during peak hours
- Limited number of counters
Frequently asked questions about Qatar e-gate
Can I use e-gate if my RP is under process?
No. You must have a valid residence permit and QID. If your RP is under renewal, you cannot use e-gate until it is issued.
What if my biometrics fail?
You will be directed to a manual immigration counter for processing. No penalty.
Can I register for someone else?
No. Registration must be done by the individual using their own Metrash2 account or in person.
Is e-gate available at all terminals at HIA?
Yes, all passenger terminals have e-gates. They are also available at the Abu Samra land border.
Can I use e-gate with a child?
Children under 18 can be registered by a guardian and must be accompanied when using the e-gate. The guardian must also be registered.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use e-gate if my RP is under process?
No. You must have a valid residence permit and QID. If your RP is under renewal, you cannot use e-gate until it is issued.
What if my biometrics fail?
You will be directed to a manual immigration counter for processing. No penalty.
Can I register for someone else?
No. Registration must be done by the individual using their own Metrash2 account or in person.
Is e-gate available at all terminals at HIA?
Yes, all passenger terminals have e-gates. They are also available at the Abu Samra land border.
Can I use e-gate with a child?
Children under 18 can be registered by a guardian and must be accompanied when using the e-gate. The guardian must also be registered.