Report: Changes to Qatar’s kafala law to take effect Dec. 14, 2016

The main reforms are that:
There will be a new system to appeal refused exit permits; and
Expats who finish fixed contracts will no longer need their sponsor’s approval to take up another job.


Previously, one had to wait two years to work in Qatar again if an employer refused to grant a no objection certificate to change jobs.


Exit permits

Additionally, cognizant of the criticism Qatar has received of its kafala system, which human rights organizations say enables the abuse of expats at the hands of unscrupulous sponsors, the text of the new law does not use the word kafeel (sponsor). It instead refers to a contractual relationship between an employer/employee.


BunchandBrock Law

Photo for illustrative purposes only.

Meanwhile, though authorities said the passage of the legislation spells the end of the exit permit system, the text of the law suggests that the employer will continue to play a significant role in regulating the departure of his employees.

However, instead of appealing to an employer directly, an employee who wishes to leave the country must inform the Ministry of Interior at least three business days before his/her exit.

The MOI would then wait for the sponsor’s approval or objection before permitting the exit, the law states: