Qatar is expanding its long-term residency framework as part of a strategic push to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors. The country will introduce a 10-year residency programme for entrepreneurs and senior executives, announced by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, as Doha seeks to bolster business growth and accelerate economic diversification.
This initiative places Qatar alongside regional peers such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, both of which have recently introduced long-term residency options to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investment capital.
In addition to the residency plan, Al Thani revealed that the Qatar Investment Authority will increase its venture capital programme by $2 billion, enhancing the country’s startup ecosystem. This expansion builds on Qatar’s existing “Fund of Funds” initiative, currently valued at $1 billion, which was designed to attract venture capital firms, support entrepreneurship, and reduce reliance on gas revenues.
The new 10-year residency programme complements Qatar’s existing long-term visa options, including the Golden Visa programme, officially called the Qatar Residency by Investment scheme. Launched in September 2020, this scheme allows foreign nationals to secure long-term residency through real estate investment and has become one of the Gulf’s most competitive investor visa options.
Applicants under the investment route can choose between a temporary residence permit, requiring a minimum real estate investment of $200,000 (QAR 728,000), or a permanent residence permit, requiring a minimum investment of $1 million (QAR 3.65 million) in government-approved areas for foreign ownership.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid passport, be in good health, maintain a clean criminal record, and provide proof of the qualifying investment. Permanent residency applicants also need to obtain a Qatari ID, pay a state fee of $824, and demonstrate proficiency in Arabic. Qatar enforces an annual quota for permanent residency, requiring applicants to wait a year if the cap is reached.
Required documentation includes proof of investment, passport copies, police clearance certificates, medical reports, fee receipts, and evidence of sufficient financial means. The application process typically takes four to six weeks, subject to government verification.
Golden Visa holders are permitted to live and work in Qatar without a local sponsor, own property in approved zones, establish businesses independently, sponsor family members, and access healthcare and education services. The visa also allows unrestricted entry and exit during its validity, providing flexibility and security for long-term residents.
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