Qatar Government Bans Nigerian Male from Applying for Visa, Gives Reason
- Qatar has introduced new visa restrictions targeting Nigerian travellers, citing concerns over recent overstays
- The updated policy bars unaccompanied male applicants and limits eligibility to females and families only
- Travellers must now book confirmed return transfers and stay exclusively in 5-star hotels to qualify for a visa
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The Qatari government has introduced changes to its visa policy for Nigerian nationals, effectively barring unaccompanied male travellers from obtaining tourist or transit visas.
The new restrictions were revealed in a letter shared on Facebook by Akintunde Babatunde, Director at the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), on 10 September, 2025.
Source: UGC
According to the letter, issued by the Qatar Ministry of Interior and circulated by TravelTank, the updated visa regulations were prompted by “recent cases of overstays” involving Nigerian visitors. The ministry outlined three key changes that took immediate effect.
The revised policy mandates that all Nigerian applicants must book a confirmed return transfer alongside their hotel reservation before their visa can be processed.
Additionally, eligibility has been restricted to female travellers and families. Male applicants are now excluded unless they are travelling with family members.
The letter stated:
“Only females or families may apply. Male travellers are no longer eligible unless accompanied by their family.”
In a further tightening of requirements, only bookings at 5-star hotels will be accepted for visa qualification. The ministry clarified that these conditions apply not only to new applications but also to all pending visa approvals.
Travel agencies urge compliance with Qatar’s visa policy
TravelTank, the agency that disseminated the notice, advised affected travellers to seek support or clarification through its official contact channels. The letter concluded with:
“For further enquiries or support, please contact us: visas@traveltank.com or call 0916 834 2924.”
The announcement has sparked concern among Nigerian travel stakeholders, with many calling for diplomatic engagement to address the implications of the policy shift. As of now, Qatari authorities have not issued a public statement beyond the circulated letter.
Where is Qatar located?
Qatar is a small but influential country located on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Saudi Arabia and surrounded by the Persian Gulf.
Its capital, Doha, is a modern city known for its skyline and cultural institutions. Governed by the Al Thani family since the 19th century, Qatar is a semi-constitutional monarchy led by Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The nation has transformed into a global energy powerhouse, thanks to vast reserves of natural gas and oil. Qatar is also recognised for its diplomatic engagement, media presence through Al Jazeera, and hosting major events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Qatar begins construction of 500,000 housing units in Nigeria
Legit.ng earlier reported that in what could be described as the right step in the right direction, Qatar has commenced the construction of 500,000 housing units in Kaduna state. The project according to the Qatari Government, is for less privileged residents of Kaduna state, North-west Nigeria.
The Mega Economic City project was officially inaugurated by Qatar’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Ali Bin Ghanem Al-Hajri on Wednesday, August 16, in Kaduna, PremiumTimes reported.
According to Mr. Al-Hajri, the projects aim to improve the living conditions for underprivileged families in the state.
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Source: Legit.ng
