Interior Ministry Begins Issuing New Smart IDs for Expatriates

Doha, July 03 (QNA) - The Ministry of Interior has begun issuing the smart identity card for foreign nationals living and working in Qatar, and issued 47,542 new ID cards and more than 1000 smart cards during the period from 17 May to 26 June this year.
The smart card having a data chip will allow a resident to avail various government services online.
Speaking about the benefits of the new smart ID card for residents, Assistant Director General of Borders Passports and Expatriates Affairs Brigadier Mohammed Ahmed Al Atiq said "It will not be mandatory for expatriates to possess this card, which aims to allow its holders to access the e-services of the government. Expatriates can choose to possess either the existing ID card or the new smart card that has more sophisticated features."
He said that the ministry has issued 47,542 new ID cards and more than 1000 smart cards during the period from 17 May to 26 June this year.
Regarding the procedure to obtain the new smart ID, Al Atiq said the fee for a normal card is QR100. But for the smart ID card, the applicant should pay an extra QR250 for a period of up to three years.
The new card allows the holder to enter into transactions with the government online. Residents can use the card to obtain exit permits and renew residence permits online for those sponsored by them.
The new card comes with an electronic chip where personal data will be stored. The data can be accessed only by entering the personal identification number (PIN) or through a fingerprint matching.
The smart ID card can also be used at the e-Gate available at the Doha International Airport. Using the e-Gate card that is incorporated in the smart ID card, passengers may bypass the immigration formalities at the airport by punching their cards at the gate and pressing their index fingers on an electronic scanner. To avail of the e-Gate service through the ID card, the applicant must pay a fee of QR100 for one year, QR150 for two years and QR200 for three years.
Using the new card, residents can avail of the various services of the Ministry of Interior at the self-service kiosks at various shopping complexes. Health services will also be incorporated in the smart ID card at a later stage. (QNA)