Qatar’s Updated Residence Permit Cancellation Process: Key Changes
Qatar has overhauled its residence permit cancellation process for foreign workers on the mainland, adding an extra administrative layer to streamline compliance. Effective immediately, employers must now submit applications to the Ministry of Labour before proceeding to the Ministry of Interior, extending processing times from 1 to 2-4 business days.
Key Features of Qatar’s New Residence Permit Cancellation Rules
Mandatory Ministry of Labour Approval: Employers must first secure clearance from the Ministry of Labour, ensuring all labor contracts and obligations are settled.
Employee Consent via Qatari Mobile Number: Employers must provide the worker’s locally registered Qatari mobile number to verify consent for cancellation.
Extended Processing Time: Applications now take 2-4 days, up from 1 day, due to dual ministry reviews.
Exemption for Qatar Financial Centre (QFC): Freezone companies are currently exempt, though this may change.
Steps in the Updated Residence Permit Cancellation Process
Ministry of Labour Submission: Employers file cancellation requests with labor authorities.
Employee Consent Verification: The worker’s Qatari mobile number is used to confirm approval.
Ministry of Interior Review: After Labour Ministry clearance, the application moves to the Interior Ministry for final cancellation.
Impact on Employers and Foreign Workers
Delayed Exit Procedures: Workers may face longer wait times to finalize departures.
Stricter Compliance: Employers must ensure all labor dues are settled and documentation is accurate.
Digital Tracking: Use Qatar’s Metrash2 app to monitor application statuses in real-time.
How to Ensure Smooth Compliance
Verify employee mobile numbers are registered in Qatar.
Submit applications early to account for extended processing.
Stay updated via official channels like the Ministry of Labour portal.
Exemptions and Future Updates
The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) free zone remains exempt from the new process, though authorities have not confirmed if this will continue. Employers in free zones should monitor announcements to avoid disruptions.
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