Looking to settle in Qatar? A new 10-year residency is coming / Image: File

The landscape of the Middle East is shifting, and Qatar has just made a bold move to ensure it remains at the center of the world’s technological and economic map. During the Web Summit Qatar 2026, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced a transformative 10-year residency program. This isn’t just another visa; it is a formal invitation for global founders, investors, and high-level executives to “put down roots.” By moving away from the traditional short-term sponsorship models, Qatar is signaling a long-term commitment to those who choose to build their future within its borders.

Who qualifies for Qatar’s 10-year residency?

The new 10-year residency is an extension of the “Mustaqel” (Independent) Visa framework, specifically targeting the drivers of the modern economy. Unlike standard work permits, this residency is designed for those who bring significant value to the state.

While official eligibility criteria and detailed application steps are yet to be published, government statements emphasize that the programme is geared toward individuals who bring innovation, investment, or leadership value to the country’s business ecosystem.Prime Minister Al Thani highlighted during the announcement: “We invite you to put down roots and grow alongside a nation that invests in your future.”This residency offer is expected to include government-backed support systems that streamline business setup, banking, and visa procedures, sometimes within just days for summit participants.

Sponsorship and beyond

The standout feature of this 10-year permit is self-sponsorship. For decades, expatriates in the Gulf relied on an employer for their legal status. The “Mustaqel” system, managed by the government-owned company Jusour, removes this barrier. The freedom to live, scale, and operate in Qatar without being tied to a single employer.Residents can sponsor their spouses and children, providing a decade of certainty for their family’s education and lifestyle. The visa facilitates the right to own property in prestigious areas like The Pearl or Lusail, further cementing the resident’s link to the nation. Under the new “Start from Qatar” initiatives, founders can now complete banking, company formation, and residency procedures in a matter of days.

How to apply?

Qatar has confirmed that the 10-year residency programme is in the rollout phase, but full application guidelines and eligibility criteria have not yet been officially published. While authorities have not released an official application portal yet, past long-term residency programmes in Qatar suggest that applications will likely be processed through:

Officials also indicated that business registration, residency processing, and banking approvals could be fast-tracked, in some cases within days, especially for participants linked to government-endorsed programmes and events.For the common professional or startup founder, this policy change turns Qatar from a “temporary stop” into a “permanent home.” The Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Qatar Development Bank are working in tandem to ensure that the transition to this 10-year status is seamless. By offering a decade of residency, Qatar is fostering a community of “builders” rather than just “workers.” The common impact will be a more diverse, stable, and innovative society where the world’s most talented minds don’t just visit for a summit, they stay to lead the next generation of growth.