The Ministry of Interior in Qatar has announced a three-month grace period starting on Sunday, February 9, 2025, allowing individuals in violation of Law No. 21 of 2015, which regulates the entry, exit, and residency of expatriates, to rectify their legal status or leave the country with ease.
This grace period applies to individuals who have violated residency conditions or overstayed their visas, with exemptions from financial penalties or legal action, provided they commit to leaving within the specified timeframe.
The ministry, through its official account on the “X” platform, clarified that violators can leave the country via Hamad International Airport or visit the Search and Follow-Up Department on Salwa Road during official working hours, from 1 PM to 9 PM, to complete the necessary procedures.
This measure is part of efforts to facilitate the legal departure of violators, reduce the number of illegal residents, and promote adherence to laws, thereby creating a more orderly legal environment.
According to the Ministry of Interior, Law No. 21 of 2015, which serves as the primary legislative framework for regulating the entry, exit, and residency of expatriates, stipulates in Article 2 that individuals must possess a valid passport or travel document and an entry visa issued by the competent authority specifying the purpose of their entry.
The new decision reflects the Qatari authorities’ commitment to achieving regulatory justice and enhancing compliance with residency laws, contributing to labor market regulation and balancing the national economy’s needs with the protection of workers’ rights.
The ministry also emphasized that this measure aims to alleviate the burden on legal and administrative sectors involved in resolving the status of violators while ensuring compliance with both local and international laws.
As the grace period draws to a close, individuals who fail to comply may face stricter legal action, as authorities strive to address issues related to illegal residency more effectively.
This announcement aligns with ongoing efforts to regulate the status of expatriate workers, forming part of a comprehensive strategy to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to balance economic needs with ensuring a fair and disciplined work environment while focusing on full adherence to laws and regulations.
