Moving to Qatar or already living here? One of the first things you'll need is a health card. It's your key to affordable healthcare at government facilities, including Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) centers across the country.

The application process is simple — you can either apply online through the Hukoomi government services portal or the Nar'aakom app, or visit a health center in person. Let's walk through exactly what you need to do.

A Qatar health card (also called a Hamad health card) is an official document that gives residents access to subsidized medical care. With this card, you can access primary healthcare services, specialist consultations, emergency care, and hospital treatments at PHCC health centers and HMC facilities throughout Qatar.

Without it, you'll pay significantly higher fees for medical services. The card is mandatory for all residents (except Qatari nationals, who can use their QID directly).

Everyone living in Qatar needs a health card — this includes Qatari nationals, GCC nationals residing in Qatar, expatriate workers and their dependents, and children born in Qatar. Each family member needs their own individual card, including infants and children.

Before you start your application, gather these documents:

The application fee is generally QAR 50 for most residents, and QAR 100 for non-GCC expats. It is important to know that no cash payments are accepted. You must pay using a credit or debit card.

Applying online through the Nar'aakom mobile app is the quickest option. Here's how to make a health card in Qatar through the digital route:

1. Visit the portal. Go to the Hukoomi government services portal or download the Nar’aakom app

2. Select Apply for Health Card. From E-Services, click on the option to apply for a new health card. You'll need to create an account or log in if you already have one

3. Choose the applicant. Verify the QID number, marital status, and your email address

4. Fill in your address details. And click on Fetch your Catchment Area to know your allocated health center, before you confirm

5. Upload documents. Take clear photos or scan your QID, utilities bill, photo, and any other required documents for your category. Upload them in the accepted format

6. Pay the fee. Complete the payment using your credit or debit card, and keep the payment confirmation

7. Track and collect. You'll receive a reference number to track your application status. Once approved, you'll be notified to collect your physical card from your assigned PHCC health center during morning working hours

If you run into issues or have questions about your application, contact PHCC's customer service at 107. They can help you find your assigned health center, check your application status, and answer questions about the process.

The PHCC website also has helpful resources in both English and Arabic, including detailed guides and FAQ.

Prefer face-to-face service? The in-person method works well, especially if you're applying for your whole family or have young children. Here's what to do:

Find your assigned health center. Your residential address in Qatar determines your health center. You can check which center serves your area on the PHCC website or by calling 107.

Visit during morning hours. Health cards are issued only during morning working hours. Head to your assigned PHCC health center early to avoid queues.

Fill out the forms. At the health center, you'll need to fill out the appropriate application forms. Staff can assist you if needed.

Submit your documents. Hand over all required documents based on your category. Staff will verify everything on the spot and issue you a PHCC health file number.

Pay the fee. Pay the applicable fee using your credit or debit card. Remember, cash is not accepted.

Receive your card. The health center will either issue your card immediately or ask you to return within a few days to collect it.

Health cards need renewal periodically — the validity period can vary (some cards are valid for 1 year, others for 3 years). To check your Qatar health card expiry date online:

1. Open the Nar’aakom app

2. Sign in to your account

3. Your expiry date will be displayed clearly

You can also check the expiry date printed on your physical card.

Don't wait until your card expires. Start the health card renewal process about a month before the expiry date. The renewal process is nearly identical to the initial application:

Online renewal:

• Go to Hukoomi or open the Nar’aakom app

• Log in to your account

• Select Renew Health Card

• Update any changed information or documents

• Pay the renewal fee

• Collect your new card from your health center

In-person renewal: Visit your assigned PHCC health center during working hours with all required documents (including your old health card, if applicable), a utility bill, and your payment method. The process usually takes less than an hour if you arrive early.