New Regulations for Multiple Entry Work Visas for Select Nationals in Qatar

20 August 2024 - The immigration authorities in Qatar have implemented new regulations for Multiple Entry Work Visas (MEWVs) for select nationals. Nationals from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka are now subject to updated rules regarding the application and validity period of MEWVs in Qatar.

The updated regulations extend the validity period of MEWVs for these nationals to a maximum of 12 months, in line with the longest possible employment contract duration. This is a significant increase from the previous validity period of 180 days, which included an initial 90-day period with an option for a 90-day extension.

These nationals are also now required to complete medical and biometric procedures at their local Qatar Visa Centres in their home countries. This is a new requirement, as previously, such applicants were not required to submit any medical or biometric data.

Additionally, the sponsoring company of these nationals (excluding those in the Qatar Financial Centre Freezone, who are exempt from this rule) is now required to submit an employment contract, including salary details, to the Qatar Visa Centre as part of the MEWV application process. This is a new requirement, as previously, sponsoring employers were not obligated to provide applicants' employment contracts to any authority during the application process.

Deloitte’s view

The revised regulations offer both opportunities and challenges for the impacted nationals and their employers. 

While the extended validity period of MEWVs up to 12 months aligns with the maximum employment contract duration, enhancing its appeal, the new requirements for medical and biometric procedures and the submission of employment contracts add complexity to the application process, potentially increasing processing times and administrative efforts.

As always, Deloitte is committed to providing support and guidance to our clients as they navigate these changes, ensuring a smooth transition and continued compliance with immigration regulations.

Contacts

Our immigration experts listed below would be happy to discuss the above matters in more detail or support you through a further discussion on your immigration requirements.

Hadi Allawi
hallawi@deloitte.com

Mohammed Haque
mhaque@deloitte.com

Syed Mansoor
mansyed@deloitte.com