DOHA, Qatar (GDM) — Qatar has unveiled a groundbreaking long-term residency program targeting global entrepreneurs, investors, senior executives and high-skilled professionals, aiming to fuel economic diversification and innovation amid a push beyond its energy sector. Announced by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at the Web Summit Qatar 2026 on February 1, the initiative — often dubbed a “10-year residency dream” — builds on the existing “Mustaqel” (Independent) visa system, enabling self-sponsorship free from traditional employer constraints. It mirrors similar golden visa schemes in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, designed to attract talent and investment to the Gulf region. In tandem, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) is boosting its venture capital “Fund of Funds” by an extra $2 billion, totaling $3 billion, to back startups in AI, fintech and blockchain.
A Golden Visa Beckons Entrepreneurs and CEOs
Administered by the Qatar Manpower Solutions Company (Jusour), the program features two key tracks: Entrepreneur Residency and Executive Residency. While media reports frequently highlight a 10-year duration, official Jusour guidelines describe it as “long-term residency with renewal options,” typically up to a decade, though some sources note an initial five-year term extendable for stability in business and family life.
Eligibility for the Entrepreneur Residency focuses on early-stage and scaling founders of tech-driven or high-impact startups, endorsed by approved incubators like the Qatar Development Bank, Qatar FinTech Hub, Qatar Business Incubation Centre, Scale7, Qatar Science & Technology Park or Startup Qatar. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and show potential to contribute to Qatar’s economy.
The Executive Residency targets seasoned professionals with a valid Qatar ID (QID), such as chairmen, CEOs, CFOs, CTOs, COOs and other directors. Requirements include a minimum salary of QAR 50,000 for top roles like chairman or CEO, or QAR 80,000 for others, plus at least five years in senior management. Employment must be with qualified entities, including Qatar Stock Exchange-listed companies, licensed banks, financial institutions, insurance firms or government-linked consultancies.
Core documents for both tracks include a valid passport (at least six months’ validity for overseas applicants), a recent photo, a three-month bank statement showing at least QAR 36,500 (or USD 10,000 equivalent, stamped and attested), a CV and a police clearance certificate (attested for those abroad). Entrepreneurs need an endorsement letter from an incubator, plus QID and establishment card copies if already in Qatar, or attested documents via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and Qatar Embassy for overseas candidates. Executives must submit a valid employment contract, attested experience letters, academic degrees, health insurance, company registration documents, board appointment proof and an employer nomination. All attestations follow official protocols for verification.
Applications, open since February 3, 2026, are processed via the Jusour platform at jusour.qa. For entrepreneurs, secure an incubator endorsement first; Jusour then sends an application link for online submission. Overseas applicants receive an entry permit, followed by medical tests, fingerprinting and QID issuance on arrival, with ongoing support. Executives start with employer registration and nomination on Jusour, uploading documents via a provided link, leading to QID approval and dedicated assistance. Fast-tracking may apply for Web Summit attendees or endorsed programs, including expedited company setup and banking. Contact Jusour at +974-44011009 or info@jusour.qa (Sunday-Thursday, 7:30 AM-2:30 PM) for queries.
Perks include long-term stability to live, work and grow businesses independently. Holders can sponsor family members — spouses, children, dependents and relatives — issue family visit visas and employ domestic workers. Property ownership is permitted in prime areas like The Pearl or Lusail. Access extends to incubators, accelerators, mentorship and innovation networks, plus priority business programs. Exclusive merchant discounts reduce living costs, while executives retain residency post-job changes. The scheme positions Qatar as a magnet for “builders,” promoting a vibrant, innovative community. Social media buzz on X underscores excitement, particularly among Pakistanis and tech professionals eyeing business prospects.
