Do Qatar expats need police certificates from home too?

For permanent residence, yes: from every country where you lived six months in a row or longer in the last 10 years, since age 18.

What exchange rate should I use for riyal balances?

Show balances as your bank prints them. CAN$1 was about QAR 2.57 on September 25, 2026, based on the Bank of Canada US dollar rate and the Qatari riyal’s US dollar peg.

Does IRCC publish processing times for Qatar?

Yes. IRCC publishes times by country of residence, so Qatar residents see the Qatar figure. Each guide shows the latest number.

Applying to Canada from Qatar

Most people applying to Canada from Qatar are expatriate workers and their families. IRCC gives applicants in Qatar the Abu Dhabi visa office checklists, and your Qatar ID status matters for both your application and your police certificate.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated: September 28, 2026

Get my options checked

IRCC processing times for applicants in Qatar

Visitor visa (applying from outside Canada)	61 daysIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Study permit (applying from outside Canada)	6 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Work permit (applying from outside Canada)	11 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times

Guides for Qatar-based applicants

Each guide covers the documents, offices and local rules that apply in Qatar.

Which visa office handles applications from Qatar?

IRCC’s application packages for applicants in Qatar point to the Abu Dhabi visa office additional checklists for visitor visas and study permits. That means the same Gulf rules apply: a copy of your latest Gulf residence visa if it is not in your passport, and bank history showing a reliable source of funds.

Where do Qatar residents give biometrics and do medicals?

IRCC lists one visa application centre in Qatar, in Doha. Biometrics cost CAN$85 per person or CAN$170 per family. In September 2026 IRCC’s panel physician list showed approved doctors in Doha. Only a panel physician can do an immigration medical exam for Canada.

How is the Qatar police certificate different?

Residents with a Qatar ID number apply online through Metrash, and the clearance is emailed directly to IRCC. Qatar does not issue clearances for time spent on visitor status without a residence ID. For that period, IRCC asks for a written explanation with dates and your passport entry stamp.

Canada from Qatar: FAQ

: For permanent residence, yes: from every country where you lived six months in a row or longer in the last 10 years, since age 18.
: Show balances as your bank prints them. CAN$1 was about QAR 2.57 on September 25, 2026, based on the Bank of Canada US dollar rate and the Qatari riyal’s US dollar peg.
: Yes. IRCC publishes times by country of residence, so Qatar residents see the Qatar figure. Each guide shows the latest number.

Official sources

Not sure which route fits you from Qatar?

Tell us your age, education, work and what you want (visit, study, work or PR). We will reply with the route that fits and what to fix first.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.