Tourist visas, transportation, entrance to the stadiums, and your Fan ID – it can sound confusing. But it’s really very simple and I break it all down here so that you can have an experience of a lifetime at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
What is a Fan ID or Hayya Card?
A Hayya card and a Fan ID Card ARE THE SAME THINGS. It is the document you need to enter the stadiums in Qatar. You need a valid passport and match tickets to attend the sporting events, but you also need a Fan ID.
The event will be held from November 21 to December 18, so time to prepare is running out!
The Fan ID personal identification document was first introduced during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
This mandatory document contains identifying information, including photos and nationality data, consequently, it’s issued to you personally and is non-transferable.
What does a Hayya card give me access to?
It gives you access to:
- Qatar and Saudi Arabia visa free entry
- The FIFA World Cup football stadiums (along with your tickets)
- Free transportation
What will the Fan ID be used for?
- Like during the last World Cup in Russia, the fan ID had the main purpose of recognizing each spectator digitally. It will personally identify you and give you access to any FIFA World Cup tournament event that you have purchased a ticket for.
- It is a supplement and a substitute for an entry visa to the country and for that reason, it is a mandatory document for foreign citizens who will have to enter Qatar.
- If you enter Qatar on a regular entry visa, you will still need to get a Fan ID, either using the online application process or obtaining one in person in Doha at the Fan ID application centers.
- It’s important to stress that the game ticket is not enough to permit you to enter the stadium – a fan ID must also be presented.
- Finally, a Hayya Card gives free access to local public transportation on game days, so you don’t have to worry about how you are going to find transportation to and from the tournament.
How to order a World Cup Fan ID
To apply for a fan id card, it is important to note that it is not the sports body FIFA that issues it, but directly the State of Qatar. To start the process, click on the link on the official website and follow the few simple guidelines.
You can also order the fan ID card in-person, at the offices of the VFS Global visa application centers.
To obtain a fan ID you need to provide details about your purchase of tickets for the game. You won’t be receiving your Hayya document from the host country until you can produce a World Cup ticket (unless you are a fully-paid hospitality customer).
An additional requirement for foreign citizens to obtain a Fan ID is that you must show details of your accommodation booking during the tournament. You can still apply online for your Hayya Card, but you’ll find it won’t be issued until your accommodation booking is verified.
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What do you need for the Fan ID application?
In addition to your match ticket and accommodation reservation, you need to provide the following data at the time of application:
- First and last name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Valid identity document
- Nationality
- Telephone number
- E-mail and postal addresses information
- Photo of your face taken no more than six months prior to application submission.
All photo information will be available in the application section of the website and it explains the importance of even lighting on your face, being full-length, and so on.
Filling out a Hayya Card order only takes a few minutes, and there are services such as a help desk and an information number if you have questions or need help. Children under 14 are required to have relatives or legal guardians apply for them.
After applying for the fan ID card, a message or email will be sent saying that it has been received, then check the website to see when it’s been approved (it can take 5 business days).
Entry and exit from the country with a Fan ID
Fans from foreign countries must be in mandatory possession of fan id for traveling. The Id fan card will allow spectators to enter Qatar multiple times by proving that they have a current passport recognized by the country.
The validity of the Fan ID or Hayya Card card starts from Nov. 1 and goes to Dec. 23 as far as entry into the country is concerned. For stay, however, it extends until January 23, 2023.
It is a valid entry visa to enter both Qatar and Saudi Arabia. This method went into effect with the 2018 World Cup in Russia and has been refined to ensure higher security standards. Both Qatar and Russia have allowed fans visa-free entry with Fan IDs and many people are choosing to stay in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Ras Al Khaimah.
Hospitality packages and Fan ID
The FIFA World Cup 2022 hospitality program offers the opportunity to purchase packages that include match tickets, parking, accommodations transportation, and all ancillary services.
These packages are a way to make guests feel at home and give them the opportunity to enjoy the experience with total peace of mind.
The advantage of those who have purchased this package is that they have the ability to apply for fan ID even without having tickets on hand, as payment for the service is made in advance.
Visiting Qatar without attending the World Cup
The system was implemented in Russia has proven to be valid and effective. For this reason, the host country of the FIFA 22 World Cup also decided to adopt it.
However, the decision to open the borders by removing the classic visa and using the fan ID has created a large number of questions from visitors!
It is possible to enter the country through this system designed to identify World Cup goers and it separates out other tourists from football fans who are provided with free transportation if they hold a match ticket.
Once you have been issued with a Fan ID, you cannot change the name on the Card or give it to another person as the ID is personal and linked to your passport number.
Fan ID information for Qatari residents
In addition to match day tickets, the Fan ID/Hayya Card is also required for Qatari residents to enter any stadium. However, it is not required for Qataris to enter the country.
Final Thoughts
Now you’re an expert on the Fan ID so just click on the official link to request a Hayya Card and you’ll be all set for a fantastic football experience in exciting Qatar!