IMPACT – HIGH

Qatar is launching an exceptional entry permit service to allow certain individuals to enter the country.

Key Points:

  • Beginning Aug.1, Qatari residents abroad will be allowed to apply for an exceptional entry permit in order to return to Qatar.
  • The temporary Exceptional Entry Permit service will make it possible for employers to apply for entry permits for residents and their family members with Qatar ID cards to return to the country. The application service will be available on the Qatar Portal.
  • The validity of the entry permit is one month from the date it was issued.

Additional information: The Eid holiday coincides with the launch of the Exceptional Entry Permit service so there may be delays in application processing at that time. Government offices will be closed from July 30 to Aug. 6 for Eid Al-Adha and will resume work on Aug. 9.

Analysis & Comments: The temporary exceptional entry permit service is good news for employers who wish to return employees abroad to Qatar. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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