Wathim

Hamad Health Card in Qatar

Renew your Hamad health card for QAR 100 a year - and stay on top of Qatar's mandatory health insurance rollout.

Last verified: 2026-06

Overview

The Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) health card has been the long-standing access pass to subsidised public healthcare in Qatar. Every resident over 12 should hold a valid health card to use HMC and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) facilities. The current standard fee is QAR 100 per year.

Since 2022, Qatar has been rolling out mandatory health insurance under Law No. 22 of 2021, administered by the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). Expats, visitors, and employers are required to hold approved private health insurance, and this requirement is now linked to QID renewal. Confirm current premiums and coverage rules on the MOPH portal.

Documents required

  • Valid QID
  • Recent passport photo
  • Proof of mandatory health insurance enrolment

Eligibility

  • You are a resident with a valid QID
  • Children under 12 covered under parent's record

Fees

ItemAmountNotes
Health card issuance/renewal100 QARPer year per resident; confirm current amount on HMC portal.
Child health card100 QARSame fee; some categories exempt.
Mandatory health insuranceVaries QARSet by approved insurers under MOPH framework; confirm current pricing.

Step by step

  1. 1

    Apply online

    Use the HMC e-services portal to apply for a new card or renew an existing one with your QID and photo.

    10-15 minutes · online

  2. 2

    Pay fee

    Pay QAR 100 by debit or credit card on the HMC portal.

    online

  3. 3

    Collect or print

    Collect the printed card at an HMC or PHCC centre, or use the digital version stored in the HMC app.

    1-3 days · either

  4. 4

    Link mandatory insurance

    Ensure your employer has enrolled you in an approved mandatory health insurance plan under MOPH rules - this is now required for QID renewal.

    either

Processing time: Online renewal is typically completed within 1-3 days.

Where to do it online

  • Metrash

    Health card status display and notifications

  • MOI Qatar

    QID renewal that depends on valid health insurance

HMC service desks at major hospitals can process applications for residents without online access.

Renewal

Health card is valid for 1 year. Renew before expiry to avoid paying full out-of-pocket charges at HMC facilities. Renewal can be done online up to 30 days before expiry.

Fines & penalties

  • No specific late fee, but expired health card means higher out-of-pocket fees at HMC and PHCC
  • Employers without compliant mandatory insurance may face MOPH penalties

Common pitfalls

  • Letting the health card expire and being charged private rates at HMC
  • Assuming employer insurance is enough - MOPH-compliant plans are now required
  • Not updating address or QID details on the card profile
  • Confusing the health card with the mandatory insurance policy

FAQs

The standard Hamad health card costs QAR 100 per year per resident. Confirm the current amount on the HMC portal.

No. The health card grants access to subsidised public healthcare; mandatory health insurance under Law No. 22 of 2021 is a separate private policy required for residents and visitors.

Yes. Use the HMC e-services portal with your QID and a digital photo, pay the QAR 100 fee, and either collect or use the digital card.

You can still access HMC facilities but will be charged the full uninsured rate until the card is renewed.

Skip the hassle

A vetted typing centre can handle the paperwork end-to-end.

Get help with Hamad Health Card