Legal status grace period announced

The Qatari government recently announced a grace period for foreign nationals who have violated entry and exit laws.

Key Points:

• Foreign nationals or employers who have violated the provisions regulating the entry and exit of their residence must correct their legal status from Oct. 10 to Dec. 31.
• Individuals can submit a request for reconciliation to be exempt from or reduce the fine for the following:
  • Violations of residency rules.
  • Violations visa rules.
  • Violations of family visit rules.
• Foreign nations or employers must submit a request for reconciliation to the Search and Follow-up Department or service centers in Al Wakra, Al Rayyan, Mesaimeer, Umm Salal or Umm Sunaim. Individuals should visit these locations Sunday through Thursday between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to submit a reconciliation request.

BAL Analysis: Foreign nationals and employers can use this grace period to correct their legal status and avoid legal procedures for not legitimizing their status. Qatari authorities have not said how this may impact highly-skilled foreign workers.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.