The Health Card Qatar is the key to affordable healthcare in Qatar. Whether you are a new resident or have lived here for years, understanding how the card works can save you time, money, and stress when visiting hospitals or clinics.
At Meem Business Services, we help hundreds every year. With our experience in licensing, PRO services, and healthcare administration, we know the exact steps needed to get your health card without delays or mistakes. This guide is built on real experience and the latest MoPH updates, including changes announced in 2025.
In this article, you’ll learn everything about the Qatar Health Card — who needs it, how to apply, the documents required, the fees, and the renewal process. We’ll also highlight the latest updates for citizens and show you how Meem can assist you.
Key Takeaways
- Qataris use ID instead of card: From September 2025, citizens can show their Qatar National ID at any public hospital or PHCC center.
- Still required for residents: Expatriates, GCC citizens, and domestic workers must apply for and renew a Qatar Health Card to get subsidized care.
- Low annual fees: Non-Qatari adults pay QR 100; children and GCC citizens pay QR 50. Replacement fees vary by card status.
- Big savings on healthcare: Reduced prices for consultations, lab tests, X-rays, emergency care, and prescription medicine.
- Simple application: Apply online via the Nar’aakom app (with Tawtheeq login) or in person at a PHCC/HMC service center.
- Help from experts: Meem Business Services offers step-by-step support with applications, renewals, and document checks to keep the process smooth and stress-free.
What is the Qatar Health Card?
The Qatar Health Card is an official document issued by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). It allows residents to access subsidized healthcare at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) hospitals and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) centers across the country.
For citizens, this system has now changed — as of September 2025, Qatari nationals only need their Qatar National ID to receive the same benefits. But for expatriates, GCC residents, and domestic staff, the health card remains mandatory. Without it, you’ll pay much higher non-subsidized rates for consultations, treatments, and medicines at public facilities.
Each health card includes your Qatar ID number, name, nationality, and expiry date. Think of it as your passport to affordable care in Qatar.
Whether you need a routine check-up, prescription medication, or emergency treatment, having a valid health card ensures you are covered at government facilities.
Why is the Qatar Health Card Essential in 2025?
In 2025, the Qatar Health Card is still a must-have for expatriates, GCC residents, and domestic workers. While Qatari citizens can now use their national ID, residents without a health card face much higher fees at government hospitals and PHCC centers.
Access to Subsidized Care
With a health card, you pay only a small fraction of the actual cost for consultations, lab tests, X-rays, and even some surgeries. This keeps healthcare affordable for families and professionals living in Qatar.
Emergency and Specialist Services
In emergencies, showing your health card ensures fast admission and subsidized care at HMC hospitals. For ongoing issues, PHCC doctors can refer you to specialists, and your health card makes these visits more affordable.
Medicine and Preventive Programs
Cardholders also get reduced prices on prescription medicine at government pharmacies. Plus, PHCC centers run vaccination drives, health screenings, and wellness programs that you can join with your card.
Eligibility for the Qatar Health Card
The Qatar Health Card is available to all legal residents. Requirements differ by status.
Qatari Citizens
From September 2025, citizens no longer need a health card. Their Qatar National ID now gives the same access at HMC and PHCC facilities.
GCC Citizens
Gulf nationals living in Qatar can apply for a health card to access subsidized services at public facilities.
Expatriate Residents
Anyone with a valid Residence Permit (RP) can apply—employees, spouses, children, and sponsored domestic staff.
Newborns
Babies born in Qatar are eligible. Parents need the baby’s birth certificate and the parents’ Qatar IDs (and health cards if applicable).
Key requirement: For non-citizens, a valid Qatar ID is mandatory. Without it, your application cannot be processed.
Documents Required to Apply for a Qatar Health Card
Having the right documents ready will save you time and prevent delays in your application. The requirements vary slightly depending on your category.
For Qatari Citizens
(Note: Citizens now use their National ID instead of a health card, but documents below applied before September 2025. Some centers may still request them in transition cases.)
- Original and copy of Qatar ID.
- Birth certificate (for children).
- Passport-size photo (mainly for children).
For GCC Nationals
- Original and copy of Qatar ID.
- Original and copy of passport.
- Passport-size photo.
For Expatriate Residents (Adults)
- Original and copy of Qatar ID.
- Original and copy of passport.
- Passport-size photo.
- Electricity bill (proof of residence; sometimes required).
- In some cases, an employer’s letter or NOC.
For Expatriate Residents (Children)
- Qatar ID and passport (original + copy).
- Birth certificate.
- Parents’ Qatar IDs.
- Passport-size photo.
- Electricity bill (proof of family address).
- Vaccination card (for first-time applicants).
Notes to Remember
- All IDs and passports must be valid.
- Photos should be recent, passport size, with a white background.
- Always bring both originals and photocopies.
Preparing these documents in advance makes both online and in-person applications faster and smoother. We can help you here.
How to Apply for a Qatar Health Card in 2025
You can apply online or in person. Having your documents ready will make the process faster.
For families or busy professionals, Meem Business Services can handle the process end-to-end — from checking documents to submitting applications — saving you time and avoiding rejections.
Apply Online (via Nar’aakom App)
The Nar’aakom app is now the main digital channel for health card services.
- Log in with Tawtheeq using your Qatar ID and password.
- Choose “New Health Card” and enter your details (QID, name, date of birth, contact info).
- Upload required documents: Qatar ID, passport, photos, and any child-related documents.
- Pay online by debit/credit card and submit.
- Receive confirmation with a reference number.
- Collect the physical card from your assigned PHCC center (in most cases).
Apply In Person
Some people prefer visiting a health center directly, especially for children or family applications.
- Visit your assigned PHCC center. Call 107 to confirm the nearest center and working hours (usually 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM).
- Take a queue number and select “Health Card Services.”
- Submit originals and copies of your documents at the counter.
- Fill out the application form (staff may also enter details into the system).
- Pay the fee by card or cash.
- Receive your card — many centers issue it the same day (typically within 24 hours).
Qatar Health Card Fees in 2025
The Qatar Health Card is kept affordable so residents can access quality care. Fees depend on nationality and status.
Update: From September 2025, Qatari citizens use their National ID at public facilities — a health card is no longer required.
| Category | Fee (QAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qatari Citizens | No longer required | From Sep 2025, National ID replaces the health card. |
| GCC Citizens (Adults & Children) | 50 | Annual fee. |
| Expatriate Adults | 100 | Annual fee. |
| Expatriate Children (under 18) | 50 | Annual fee. |
| Domestic Staff | 100 | Annual fee. |
Replacement Fees
- Valid card replacement: QAR 50 (Qatari), QAR 100 (residents).
- Expired card replacement: QAR 100 (Qatari), QAR 200 (residents).
Key Points to Know
- Fees are paid at application or renewal.
- Lost or damaged cards require a replacement fee.
- Most PHCC centers issue the card within 24 hours.
How to Renew Your Qatar Health Card in 2025
The Qatar Health Card is usually valid for one year, and renewal ensures you don’t lose access to subsidized services. Renewal can be done online or in person.
Nar’aakom App or Hukoomi Portal
The fastest way is through the Nar’aakom app or the Hukoomi portal.
- Log in with Tawtheeq (NAS) using your Qatar ID and password.
- Select “Renew Health Card.”
- Enter your QID and current health card number.
- Confirm or update your details (address, phone, etc.).
- Pay the renewal fee online.
- Receive confirmation — the validity is updated in the system.
- Collect a new physical card if required (some renewals only extend the expiry date digitally).
PHCC / HMC Centers
For families or those with changed details, in-person renewal is recommended.
- Visit your assigned PHCC/HMC center (call 107 to confirm).
- Bring your Qatar ID, current health card, a recent photo (for children or updates), and a utility bill if requested.
- Pay the renewal fee at the counter.
- Get your renewed card — usually on the same day.
Benefits of the Qatar Health Card in 2025
Holding a Qatar Health Card gives residents access to one of the most affordable public healthcare systems in the region. Here’s what you get:
Subsidized Medical Services
- Pay only small fees for consultations with doctors and specialists.
- Lab tests, X-rays, and even minor procedures are heavily discounted.
- Basic dental care is available at reduced costs.
Emergency Care
In emergencies, your health card ensures fast admission and subsidized treatment at HMC hospitals. Without it, you’ll be charged non-subsidized rates.
Prescription Discounts
Medicines prescribed at HMC or PHCC facilities can be purchased at government pharmacies for much lower prices, saving money on long-term treatments.
Preventive Health & Family Care
- PHCC centers offer vaccinations, health screenings, and wellness programs.
- Each family member can have their own health card, making healthcare simpler and cheaper for the whole household.
- PHCC follows the family doctor model, which means you are assigned to a center near your home for consistent care.
Access to Specialist Hospitals
With a PHCC referral, you can visit top facilities under HMC such as:
- Hamad General Hospital (general and surgical care)
- Heart Hospital, Cancer Care & Research Center, Communicable Disease Center
- Women’s Wellness & Research Center
- Sidra Medicine (for children and women)
How Meem Business Services Can Help
At Meem Business Services, we know that government procedures in Qatar can feel complex — especially if you’re new to the country or managing multiple family applications. With years of experience in health card processing, PRO services, and licensing support, we make the process fast and stress-free.
Our Support Includes:
- Step-by-step help with new applications.
- Smooth handling of renewals and replacements.
- Careful document checks to avoid rejections.
- Dedicated guidance for families, expats, and professionals.
FAQs about the Qatar Health Card (2025)
-
Do Qatari citizens still need a health card?
No. Since September 2025, Qatari citizens can use their Qatar National ID instead of a health card at HMC and PHCC facilities. -
Who still needs a Qatar Health Card?
Expatriates, GCC citizens, and domestic staff must have a valid health card to access subsidized healthcare. -
How long is the health card valid?
The card is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. -
How much does it cost?
- Expat adults: QR 100
- Expat children & GCC citizens: QR 50
- Domestic staff: QR 100
-
How fast can I get a health card?
Most PHCC centers issue it within 24 hours, often on the same day. -
Can I apply online?
Yes. Applications and renewals can be done via the Nar’aakom app or the Hukoomi portal. -
Can each family use one card?
No. Each person, including children, needs their own health card. -
What services are not covered?
Private hospital visits, cosmetic procedures, some dental treatments, and medicines bought from private pharmacies. -
What if my Qatar ID is expired?
You cannot apply or renew until your Qatar ID is valid. -
How can Meem Business Services help?
Meem assists with applications, renewals, and replacements, ensuring documents are correct and saving you time.
Conclusion
The Qatar Health Card is your key to affordable and reliable healthcare in Qatar. While Qatari citizens now use their National ID, expats, GCC residents, and domestic staff still need this card to access subsidized consultations, tests, prescriptions, and emergency care.
By keeping your health card valid and up to date, you ensure peace of mind for yourself and your family. And with Meem Business Services by your side, the entire process — from renewal application — becomes smooth, accurate, and hassle-free.
