Qatar has implemented new visa rules that prevent single Nigerian men from obtaining tourist or transit visas, citing repeated incidents of travellers overstaying their visits.
The Ministry of Interior of Qatar announced that tourist and transit visas will now only be available to women or families. Male applicants will be eligible for these visas only if they are traveling with their families.
The policy, which took effect around September 5, 2025, was first reported by industry sources and travel agencies last week.
It applies immediately to both new and pending visa applications.
Under the revised rules, only women or families are eligible to apply for visas, while men travelling independently are excluded unless accompanied by family.
In addition, applicants must present a confirmed return transfer and proof of accommodation exclusively in five-star hotels before visas are processed.
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For many Nigerians, particularly male business executives, students, and those using Doha as a connecting hub to Asia and Europe, the new rules come as a major setback.
Independent travel for men has effectively been cut off, raising costs and limiting opportunities for those who rely on Qatar as a transit point.
“This is going to affect a lot of Nigerians who fly Qatar Airways to Asia or Europe.
The new rules have immediate implications for Nigerians who rely on Qatar as a transit hub to Asia and Europe, as well as for business executives and students travelling for academic or professional purposes.
The decision has raised concerns about its potential impact on bilateral ties. Nigeria and Qatar have previously held discussions over easing entry barriers, including appeals made in 2019 by then Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki and in 2023 by former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika.
With the latest measures, independent travel for Nigerian men has effectively been curtailed, limiting mobility and imposing additional costs on those seeking to use Doha as a transit point.