Qatar’s 2026 Residency Visas: Essential Guide for Expats and Founders

The BIG news

Qatar has launched a new 10-year long term residency permit aimed specifically at entrepreneurs and senior executives. This was confirmed in recent immigration updates and global press coverage. The programme lets eligible founders and C-suite leaders live and work in Qatar for up to a decade under a stable residency framework. This represents a strategic shift for Qatar, focusing on attracting high impact business talent and investment to grow its innovation ecosystem.

The announcement came around Web Summit Qatar 2026 and was reported alongside broader economic initiatives, including venture capital boosts and initiatives to build Qatar into a hub for entrepreneurs and innovators.

This update matters for business founders because it moves beyond standard work or sponsor-linked visas. It promises longer-term certainty and better conditions for those who make a measurable economic and leadership contribution.

What the new long term residency permit is

The new permit is a residency option that can be granted for up to 10 years to qualifying individuals in two groups:

1. Entrepreneurs

This track is designed for founders who are building or expanding businesses that align with Qatar’s development goals. Applicants need:

• Endorsement from a recognised local incubator or business programme
• Demonstrated financial stability (such as a minimum bank balance requirement)
• Business plans or credentials showing strategic value and scalability

This is not a casual application. Qatar is looking for founders who are committed to building here long term, not people looking for a quick residency.

2. Senior executives

For top tier professionals in leadership roles, the executive pathway applies if you meet criteria such as:

• Minimum executive experience (often 5+ years)
• A qualifying employment contract with a company in Qatar
• Salary thresholds that typically start from QAR 50,000 to higher amounts for certain titles
• Employer nomination is required

This route is best suited for established leaders with proven track records and meaningful corporate roles.

The permit is renewable and gives holders longer stability than the typical 2–3 year work visas most expats are used to.

Why this matters for founders and expats

If you run a startup, lead a company, or are planning high value investment in the Gulf, these are the key points:

1. Residency is tied to contribution, not just employment

Standard work visas are still common, but they depend on employer sponsorship with limited predictability. The new permit separates you from that model if you qualify.

2. Long term planning becomes feasible

Living and working in Qatar for up to 10 years means you can plan strategy, hire talent, sign contracts, and build ecosystems without yearly renewals hanging over your head.

3.Family and personal stability improve

Prior long-term residency options in Qatar were limited and often tied to property investment or sponsor conditions. This new programme gives better options for founders and executives to bring families and settle.

4.It upgrades Qatar’s place in the global talent landscape

Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia already offer golden visas with long-term residency. Qatar’s move now positions it alongside those markets for global founders and business leaders.

How the process works (simple terms)

The exact application process is still being rolled out in government portals such as Hukoomi and Start from Qatar. Based on the official details so far, the general flow would be:

Assess eligibility

Entrepreneurs get endorsement from approved incubators. Executives get nominated by their employer.

Prepare documentation

Proof of experience, business plans, contracts, bank statements and incubator letters.

Apply online

Submit through official Qatar digital platforms when the programme opens for applications.

Processing and clearance

Includes background checks, medical screening and residency issuance.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether existing five-year residents can convert to the new 10-year permit, but that is expected to be clarified soon.

Who this is really for

This programme is not for everyone. It is selective and designed for founders and senior executives who:

• Have proven experience and leadership credentials
• Can show economic value to Qatar’s priorities
• Are ready to commit to building here, not just reside here

It is not targeted at freelancers, gig workers, or retirees.

If you are an early stage founder with limited backing, it may be harder to qualify. But for tech founders, seasoned executives, and investors, this opens doors that did not exist before.

How this fits into broader Qatar strategy

Qatar’s long term economic goals emphasize innovation, private sector growth, and diversification beyond oil and gas. Residency is now a tool, not just paperwork, to attract people who align with these goals.

Separating residency from short term contracts moves Qatar’s immigration system closer to global talent friendly models seen in Europe and other Gulf markets. It also complements state initiatives like venture capital funding, incubators, and sector specific incentives.

Practical considerations before you apply

Understand eligibility early

Check whether your business plan or role truly aligns with what Qatar is looking for.

Get incubator/endorsement support early

For founders, this is one of the hardest parts. Incubators act as validators.

Plan finances and documentation together

Residency planning should happen before company formation in Qatar. Treat it as part of your strategic setup, not an afterthought.

Final thought

Qatar’s new 10-year residency visa for entrepreneurs and executives is not just another immigration update. It is a strategic pivot towards long term economic participation and leadership. For founders and business leaders looking to build confidence in the Middle East, this creates a unique opportunity to secure stability and credibility in one of the region’s fastest evolving markets.

If you are considering expanding your business to Qatar or want help understanding the latest residency options, reach out to our experts who track these changes closely and can help you plan with real world insights.