Qatari Ministry of Interior Warns Against Visa Trafficking, Imprisonment Up to 3 Years

The Qatari Ministry of Interior has warned against illegal visa trafficking and residency law violations, emphasizing that the penalty reaches up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to 50,000 riyals for the first offense, rising to 100,000 riyals upon repetition, in accordance with Law No. 21 of 2015.

Major Saud Hamad Al-Breidi, Head of the Detention Section, explained during a seminar organized by the Search and Follow-up Department that an employer who permits recruited workers to work for other entities, or employs workers not under their sponsorship, may face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of up to 50,000 riyals for the first offense.

He noted that employers who fail to report to competent authorities within the specified deadline (14 days) in certain cases may face fines of up to 50,000 riyals, while the fine for failing to complete residency issuance or renewal procedures within a period not exceeding 90 days from permit expiration reaches 10,000 riyals.

According to a separate report issued on October 15 by the same official, fines reach up to 25,000 riyals for employers who withhold workers' passports. Major Al-Breidi called on employers to attest employment contracts, provide suitable accommodation, and complete residency procedures within specified deadlines.

What Do These Terms Mean?

Visa: A permit granted by the state to a foreign national to enter or reside in its territory, associated with a specific purpose such as work or visit.

Residency: A legal permit allowing a foreign national to remain in the country for a specified period, which must be renewed prior to its expiration.

Repeat Offense: Committing the same violation again, which often doubles the fine or stiffens the penalty.