Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has announced that the first phase of the mandatory health insurance scheme in Qatar will begin on February 1, 2023. All visitors to Qatar are now required to have a health insurance policy. Insurance becomes mandatory to obtain a visa to visit the country.
This is in accordance with the Health Services Regulation Act 2021 (22), which states that a compulsory health insurance scheme applies to all visitors to Qatar. The project is being rolled out in phases for smooth implementation.
Health insurance policies are available to visitors from health insurance companies registered with the Ministry of Public Health. The Ministry has made necessary arrangements to start the first phase of the project including this.
The visitor insurance policy covers emergency services and accidents only. The premium to start with is 50 Qatar Riyals for a month. Visitors can also choose a health insurance policy that includes additional services. The premium of such policies will vary depending on the rates of the insurance companies.
Visitors can choose one of the registered insurance companies through the links available on the Ministry’s website. Visitors must take out a health insurance policy when applying for an entry visa to Qatar. It is compulsory to have a visa. The same procedure applies for extending a visitor visa.
In the case of visitors with international health insurance, the insurance policy requires Qatar to be covered. The insurance must be valid during their stay in the country. The Ministry of Public Health also stated that this international insurance must be provided by one of the recognized insurance companies in Qatar. For more information on the health insurance scheme and conditions and to check the list of insurance companies registered with MOPH, visit https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/derpartments/policyaffairs/hfid/Pages /Health-Insurance-Scheme Aspx link can be visited.
