Qatar Hayya Visa Photo Requirements 2026: Official Size 30x40 mm and Upload Rules
In short. To obtain a Qatar Hayya e-visa in 2026, you must upload a digital photo measuring 30x40 mm (up to 2 MB) on a light background.
- The digital photo for the Hayya visa must be 30x40 mm in size (minimum 720px).
- The allowed file format is only JPEG or JPG, with a maximum size of 2 MB.
- The background must be plain white or light gray, without shadows or glare.
- The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo area, and the facial expression must be neutral (no smiling).
- The photo must be taken no more than 12 months before the application submission.
What has changed and the current requirements for 2026
To apply for an e-visa through the Hayya platform (the official portal of the State of Qatar), applicants must provide a digital photo that meets strict standards. Failure to comply with these rules may result in a delay or refusal of visa issuance.
| Parameter | Official Hayya requirement |
|---|---|
| Size (proportions) | 30 mm (width) x 40 mm (height) |
| Resolution | Minimum 720 pixels |
| File size | No more than 2 MB |
| File format | JPEG or JPG only |
| Background | Plain white or light gray (no shadows or glare) |
| Face position | The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo area |
| Photo age | Taken no earlier than 12 months before applying |
Who this applies to
These requirements are mandatory for all applicants, including citizens of Ukraine, applying for any type of e-visa through the Hayya platform (tourist visa A1, GCC resident guest visa A2, ETA visa A3, etc.). The rules apply equally to both adults and children.
What to do now: shooting and uploading rules
- Prepare the background and lighting: Use a plain white or light gray background. Ensure there are no shadows on the face or background. Lighting should be natural, without "red-eye" effects or unnatural colors.
- Take the correct pose: Look straight into the camera. The head must be centered, not tilted or turned. The frame should show a close-up of the face and the top of the shoulders.
- Maintain a neutral facial expression: Eyes must be open, mouth closed. Do not smile or frown. Hair must not cover the eyes.
- Check accessories: Sunglasses and tinted glasses are strictly prohibited. If you wear prescription glasses, your eyes must be clearly visible (no glare on the lenses). Headwear is permitted only for religious reasons, provided the face is completely visible.
- Save the file in the correct format: Ensure the file is saved in JPG or JPEG format and its size does not exceed 2 MB.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect size or proportions: Uploading standard passport-sized photos of other countries (e.g., 35x45 mm) without cropping to Hayya requirements (30x40 mm).
- Inappropriate background: Using a dark, colored, or patterned background, as well as the presence of foreign objects or other people in the frame.
- Over-processing (filters): Using retouching or filters that alter natural skin color or facial features.
- Unclear image: Blurry photos or images with a resolution of less than 720px may not be accepted by the system.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Official sources
Questions
- Can I upload a photo in PNG or PDF format?
- No, the official Hayya system accepts photos exclusively in JPEG or JPG formats.
- Is it allowed to wear glasses in the photo?
- Regular prescription glasses are allowed if they do not have tinted lenses, do not create glare, and your eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited.
- What is the maximum file size for uploading to the Hayya portal?
- The digital photo file size must not exceed 2 MB.
- Can I smile in the photo for the Qatar visa?
- No, according to official instructions, the facial expression must be neutral: mouth closed, eyes open, without smiling or frowning.