A Qatar ID (QID) is a mandatory identification document for all citizens and expatriates living in Qatar. QID has all the essential information of an individual and hence, serves as your proof of identity within the country. A Qatar ID is required for all the major tasks in Qatar or to avail of various services.
For instance, a QID is required to access healthcare services, for travelling, for opening a bank account, for signing rental agreements, apply for utilities and more. Therefore, it’s important that the QID is valid and up-to-date to ensure legal compliance while availing all such services.
Today, we will learn the step-by-step process on how to check your Qatar ID status and ensure that it’s valid and renewed before it expires:
Why Should You Check the Status of Your QID?
Here’s why checking the QID status regularly is important:
- It is important to check the status of QID to know when it will expire. Hence, the QID holder can renew it timely and avoid penalties and continue to use services.
- In case you have applied for a Qatar ID renewal or a new one, checking the status regularly keeps the applicant informed about the process.
- Keeping a check on the Qatar ID helps avoid any problems while accessing services, as mentioned earlier.
Qatar ID Number
The Qatar ID number is provided on the QID. It’s an 11-digit number that serves as an individual’s identifier. The 11-digit number is stored in the database of the government and helps confirm the identity of the individual and residency rights.
This 11-digit number contains important information, for instance, the country code of an individual’s country code, in case of an expatriate and date of birth.
Here’s a breakdown of the 11-digit number for your understanding:
- 1st digit: the first digit represents the birth year of an individual. For instance, if someone was born between 1900 and 1999, the number would be 2. Those born in 2000 or after that will have number 3 on the QID.
- 2nd and 3rd digits on the QID: The last two digits are the birth year.
- 4th, 5th and 6th digits: These digits are the country’s ISO code of an individual.
The last 5 digits are interesting. They represent the number of locals born in the year the QID holder is born. For instance, if an individual was born in 1987, the last 5 digits will represent the number of Qataris born in this year.
How to Check the Status of Qatar ID?
There are two convenient ways to check the QID status. One can check the status of Qatar ID online on the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or the Metrash2 smartphone app.
How to check Qatar ID status online?
Here’s how you can check the QID status online through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website:
Check the Qatar ID Status Using the QID Number
- Browse the MOI website in your browser.
- Go to the MOI services section, then select Inquiries.
- Navigate to the Other Services tab and Select Official Documents.
- Enter the 11-digit Qatar ID number in the provided field on the portal.
- Enter the Captcha
- Upon entering the QID number, the portal will show the current status of the Qatar ID. It will also display the QID expiry date, driving license validity and pending renewals (if any).
In case the 11-digit QID number is incorrect, you will not be directed to the status page. You can press the reset button and enter the correct 11-digit number.
Check the Qatar ID Status Using the Passport Number
- Open the MOI website in the browser of your system.
- Navigate to the MOI services tab and then go to the Inquiries section.
- Click the Other Services tab and then Click the Official Documents tab.
- Select the option Passport number on the portal and enter the passport number in the provided field.
- Choose the nationality from the drop-down menu.
- Click the search button.
- The portal will show the current status of the QID. It will also present the validity period of the Qatar ID, resident expiry date and passport expiry date.
How to check Qatar ID status on the Metrash2 App
Metrash2 is a mobile application, introduced by the MOI. With the help of this app, Qatar residents can access different services that also include checking the QID status.
This app has a feature named ‘Wallet’ from where users can get access to digital copies of QID, driving license and other important documents. These documents are accessible online to further use the MOI services.
Simply open the Metrash2 app and tap the Wallet section to access the following documents:
- QID
- Fancy number ownership
- Istimara
- Qatar driving license
Check the Qatar ID Status via the Metrash2 App
- Download and install the Metrash2 app (Android | iOS) on your smartphone.
- Log in to the Metrash2 app or if you are new to the app, register by creating your account.
- Go to the QID status section on the app.
- Provide with QID an 11-digit number.
- The app will show the current status of the Qatar ID, along with other important actions you should take to proceed further.
How to Check the Status of Your Qatar ID In-Person
For those who prefer or need to check their QID status in person, visit an MOI service centre.
- Locate your nearest MOI service centre. You can find this information on the MOI website or by calling their customer service.
- Take the required documents. Make sure to bring your current QID and any other relevant documents.
- Speak with a representative upon arrival and request assistance in checking your QID status.
- The representative will provide you with the current status of your QID and any necessary steps for renewal or updating your information.
Additional Tips for Managing Your Qatar ID
- Setting Reminders for Renewal
Here are some tips to set reminders and avoid any inconvenience due to the invalidity of QID:
- Use calendar apps on your smartphone or system to receive alerts a month ahead of the Qatar ID expiry date.
- Mark important dates, especially the expiry date of QID on a physical calendar or write it on sticky notes and stick it on your workstation.
- Use apps and online services to generate automated reminders for important dates. Use them to ensure you don’t miss a renewal date.
- Regularly Checking Your QID Status
- Another way to manage your QID is to regularly check its status. It will help you stay informed. Here’s how you can do it:
- Make it a habit to check your QID status every few months.
- Utilise online and mobile app services for quick status checks.
- Keep yourself informed about any changes in QID policies or procedures by visiting the MOI website regularly.
- Updating Your Information
Keeping your QID information accurate is crucial. Here’s how to manage:
- If you find any errors on your QID, visit an MOI service centre to rectify them immediately.
- Always inform the MOI of any changes in your personal information, such as a change of address or employment.
- Ensure you have all necessary documents ready when updating your information to avoid delays.
- Common Issues and Troubleshooting
If the Qatar ID has expired, then make sure you follow the below steps:
- Immediately apply for renewal by either applying online on the MOI website or heading to the service centre.
- Make sure you have all the required documents, for instance, proof of residence, old Qatari ID and passport.
- Apply for renewing your QID.
If you have submitted an application for QID renewal, but the status is still pending, here’s what you need to do:
- Timely check the application status online or through the Metrash2 app.
- Contact the Ministry of Interior in Qatar if there is a delay in the renewal.
- Verify that all necessary documents have been submitted correctly.
If the information provided on your Qatar ID is incorrect, follow these steps:
- Visit the MOI service centre at the earliest with your Qatar ID and the required documents to support your claim.
- Talk to a representative to correct the incorrect information.
- Provide sufficient proof to validate the correction request.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about the Qatar ID:
- What to Do If I Lose My Qatar ID?
Report the loss to the nearest MOI service centre and apply for a replacement.
- How Long Does it Take to Get a New QID?
The processing time varies, but it typically takes a few weeks.
- Can I Travel With an Expired QID?
No, you must have a valid QID to travel in and out of Qatar.
- How Can I Check My Qatar ID Online?
To check your Qatar ID status online, visit the Ministry of Interior’s website, navigate to the “Inquiries” section click Official documents, enter your QID number, and view the status, including expiry date and any pending renewals. You can also check the QID status via the Metrash2 app by downloading it on your smartphone.
Here, we conclude how citizens and expatriates in Qatar can check the status of their QID online and in person. All the important steps are detailed above; however, you can contact an MOI representative for further details to avoid any confusion or last-minute hassle.
Whether you choose to check your status online, via mobile apps, or in person, make sure to regularly verify your QID’s validity and take necessary actions promptly. Regular checks and timely renewals will save you from potential hassles and ensure you remain in good standing with Qatari authorities.
