LAGOS — Nigerian men travelling alone will no longer be able to obtain tourist or transit visas to Qatar, following a recent policy update by the country’s Ministry of Interior.
The new rules, effective from September 5, 2025, aim to curb overstays, authorities say. Travel agencies and industry sources first reported the changes last week.
Under the revised guidelines, only women or families are eligible for visas. Men travelling independently are excluded unless accompanied by family members, significantly altering travel plans for many Nigerians.
Applicants must also provide proof of confirmed return transfers and book accommodations exclusively in five-star hotels. These requirements apply to both new and pending visa applications.
For Nigerian business executives, students, and travellers using Doha as a transit hub to Asia or Europe, the changes represent a major setback. Independent travel is effectively curtailed, and costs are expected to rise.
“This is going to affect a lot of Nigerians who fly Qatar Airways to Asia or Europe. It’s a huge disruption for business and personal travel,” said a Lagos-based travel agent who requested anonymity.
The policy has sparked concerns about its wider implications, from family connections to international business relations between Qatar and Nigeria. Many travellers fear delays and logistical challenges caused by the stringent requirements.
Qatar Airways, a popular carrier among Nigerian travellers, is expected to face increased demand for family bookings and potential cancellations of solo travel itineraries. Industry insiders note the impact may ripple across transit hubs globally.
Critics argue that the new rules disproportionately affect Nigerian men, limiting access to legitimate tourism and business opportunities. Meanwhile, authorities maintain that the measures are necessary to reduce overstays and strengthen immigration control.
Travel agencies have reported a surge in inquiries about alternative destinations and visa options, as independent travellers seek solutions around the new restrictions. Some Nigerians are considering connecting flights through other Gulf countries with less restrictive policies.
The Ministry of Interior has yet to issue an official public statement detailing the full scope of the new visa regulations. However, industry observers predict that enforcement will be strict, and travellers should anticipate additional scrutiny at border checkpoints.
With the new regulations in force, Nigerian men planning to visit Qatar independently must either travel with family or make alternative arrangements, while women and families remain eligible under the tightened rules.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
