IMPACT – HIGH

Qatar has extended the national address registration deadline for residents who were stranded outside the country because of COVID-19.

Key Points:

  • All Qatari citizens, residents, expatriates and companies and institutions were required to participate in national address registration last month.
  • Those stranded outside of Qatar will be allowed to register once they return to the country. No specific deadline was provided, but registrants who missed the deadline must provide proof of being abroad with a legitimate reason.
  • Registrants are required to provide their home address, fixed telephone number, mobile number, email, permanent address if aboard, and any other information deemed relevant by the government. Information may be submitted through the Metrash2 app, the Ministry of the Interior website or in person at Ministry of Interior services centers. Those who missed the deadline will need to register at the Ministry of Interior services centers as they need to provide proof of being abroad.
  • Anyone who fails to provide the information, or gives false information, could face a fine of up to QAR10,000 (about US$2,746).

Background: His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, issued the National Address Law in 2017. The government cited the creation of an e-government system with the completion of government electronic transactions as the reason for the data collection.

Analysis & Comments: Businesses should ensure companies and employees are in compliance with all laws in Qatar. As the response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, 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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