Page 89 - QBG

Working in Qatar

1- Labor Law

The Labor Law of Qatar provides a body of laws and regulations outlining the legal rights, restric-
tions and obligations of workers, employers and workers committees. All parties involved should
adhere to the Labor Law.

Qatari Employment :

• Priority in employment is given to Qatari citizens. The Ministry of Labor provides various services
to match employers with available talent. Qatari citizens who are looking for work should register
with the ministry for potential job placements.
• Employers who wish to hire non-Qataris or recruit workers from abroad are required to obtain
permission from the government.

Sponsorship :

• Foreigners may work in Qatar under sponsorship.
• Without special permission, a sponsored employee may not work for another employer. Transfer
of sponsorship may be granted in cases where both the original and potential new employers agree
to the change. Without a release letter, a person must leave the country for a minimum of two years
before returning to work for another employer.
• Sponsors may not keep the passports of their employees except to complete visa formalities.
• Sponsored employees may apply to bring their spouses and children to Qatar under personal sponsorship.

Working Hours :

• The maximum number of working hours allowed without overtime pay is 48 hours per week.
Working hours are reduced to 36 per week during the month of Ramadan.
• Workers are entitled to at least one day of rest per week. Friday is the common day of rest for all
workers except those who handle shift work. No employee should work two or more Fridays in a row.

Workers Committees :

Qatari workers may form workers committees and join larger trade unions. Strikes are allowed as
long as they follow the rules of the Labor Law.

Work Visa :

Foreign employees working in Qatar are required to carry work visas. Sponsors may apply for a
work visa online once all the required documents are available.

Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for a work visa online:

• Fill out the online application form.
• Modify any part of your information. Supply all required information and documents,
• including your ID/Establishment ID and the employee’s passport.
• Confirm and submit application.
• Pay appropriate fees if the application is approved.
• Print visa.

88 Qatar Business Guide Official Sponsor
2016 - 2017