The Qatari Ministry of Interior has denied reports that it introduced new visa restrictions targeting Nigerian passport holders.

An official of the ministry told BBC Pidgin on Wednesday that there are no restrictions on Nigerians seeking to visit the Gulf nation.

Viral reports had claimed that Qatar imposed a travel ban preventing male applicants from securing visas unless accompanied by their families. The same reports also alleged that only women or families could apply, and that travellers were required to book a five-star hotel and confirm a return ticket before their visa applications could be processed.

According to those circulating the notification, the alleged restrictions were linked to frequent cases of overstays by Nigerian travellers.

But Hayya, Qatar’s digital platform for e-visa services, dismissed the claims, stating that the application process remains unchanged.

“There has been no suspension or changes to the current procedures. If any updates are to be made, they will be announced on our official platforms,” the platform clarified.

Qatar has witnessed increased visits from Nigerian travellers in recent years, partly driven by the diplomatic row between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates between 2021 and 2024, which resulted in visa restrictions and flight suspensions.