Anayeb,

The entry visa took a month. I am told that the work visa processing will start only after arrival in Qatar. The entry Visa is valid for a couple of months after arrival in Qatar, during which QP will initiate the process of obtaining the Work Visa.

As you correctly said, QP will conduct the medical examination in Qatar. In my case I had met the QP people when they came down to India. They discussed a sample contract with me and later send an almost similar contract to sign and return by mail. I think all discussions on the same should happen prior to travel.

With respect to the time frame involved in getting the Work Visa, Chemist in an earlier post has mentioned a period of 8 weeks to get the Work Visa and the residence permit after arrival.

Hope this helps and thanks all for the info.

Best Regards