The Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced new visa regulations for Nigerian travellers, tightening eligibility requirements in response to rising cases of overstays.

Under the updated policy, only women and families are allowed to apply for tourist or transit visas. Male travellers are now barred from applying unless they are accompanied by their families.

In addition, applicants must show proof of a confirmed return flight and book a hotel reservation, with only 5-star hotel bookings qualifying for visa approval.

The new rules take immediate effect and will also apply to all pending visa applications.

This move marks a significant shift in Qatar’s visa policy towards Nigeria, and many fear it could affect both leisure and business travel between the two countries.