Exit Permit Abolition and Free Travel in Qatar
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Qatari national laws, Emiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Qatar abolished the exit permit requirement under Law No. 13 of 2018, ending one of the most criticized elements of the kafala system:
- Since the law's full implementation, most workers no longer need employer permission to leave Qatar.
- Workers must give their employer at least 72 hours' notice before traveling.
- A small number of designated roles (about 5% of the workforce) may still require employer approval, but the employer must respond within 72 hours or approval is automatic.
- Workers in designated roles can appeal to a grievance committee if their employer refuses exit permission.
- The committee must decide within 3 working days.
When does it apply?
- You want to travel outside Qatar during or after your employment.
- Your employer is preventing you from leaving the country.
- You are unsure whether your role requires exit notification or permission.
What to Do If Someone Claims You Need an Exit Permit to Leave Qatar
- Give your employer 72 hours' notice before your planned departure.
- Exit notifications can be submitted through the Metrash2 app.
- If your employer blocks your travel, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour at 16008.
- If you are in a designated role and your request is denied, appeal to the grievance committee — they must decide within 3 working days.
- Keep your passport in your possession at all times so you can travel freely.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not leave without giving notice. The 72-hour notice requirement still applies.
- Do not accept your employer holding your passport. You have the legal right to keep it.
- Do not assume you need an exit permit. The requirement has been abolished for the vast majority of workers under Law No. 13 of 2018.
Common Questions
When does it apply — exit permit abolition and free travel?
You want to travel outside Qatar during or after your employment.Your employer is preventing you from leaving the country.You are unsure whether your role requires exit notification or permission.
What should I do if my employer in Qatar is claiming I cannot leave the country without their permission?
Give your employer 72 hours' notice before your planned departure.Exit notifications can be submitted through the Metrash2 app.If your employer blocks your travel, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour at 16008.If you are in a designated role and your request is denied, appeal to the grievance committee — they must decide within 3 working days.Keep your passport in your possession at all times so you can travel freely.
What should you NOT do — exit permit abolition and free travel?
Do not leave without giving notice. The 72-hour notice requirement still applies.Do not accept your employer holding your passport. You have the legal right to keep it.Do not assume you need an exit permit. The requirement has been abolished for the vast majority of workers under Law No. 13 of 2018.