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Qatar easing of foreign worker exit system comes into force
DOHA, Oct 28, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Long-awaited reform of Qatar’s controversial
exit visa system, which requires foreign workers to obtain their bosses’
permission to leave the country, came into force on Sunday, the government
said.
“Law No. 13 of 2018… regulating the entry, exit and residency of
expatriates is being implemented starting today,” the interior ministry
announced on Twitter.
Qatar announced in September it had approved legislation to scrap the visa
system — a lynchpin of the country’s “kafala”, or sponsorship, system which
many liken to modern-day slavery.
Under the new law, all but five percent of a company’s workforce —
reportedly those in the most senior positions — can leave without prior
permission from employers.
Those not allowed to leave Qatar “for any reason” can file a complaint to
the Expatriate Exit Grievance Committee that will “take a decision within
three working days”, the ministry said.
Scrapping the exit permit is the biggest announcement made so far since
Qatar agreed last November to enter into a three-year agreement with the UN’s
International Labour Organization to oversee reform.
The football World Cup 2022 host has come under intense pressure to reform
its labour laws, which have been repeatedly denounced by human rights groups.
Critics have long argued for abolition of the exit visa system.
Research published last year by rights group Migrant-Rights.org found
around a quarter of all exit visa requests were denied by the government.
There are some two million foreign workers in Qatar.
BSS/AFP/FI/ 1510 hrs