Work Visa, Residency & Changing Employer in Qatar (2026)
Qatar after Law 18/2020: NOC abolished, exit permits removed for most, the residence-permit grace period (reduced to 14 days), and the passport ban.
Since Law 18/2020, Qatar abolished the No-Objection Certificate, so private-sector workers can change employer after serving notice (1 month in the first two years, 2 months after), and exit permits were removed for most workers. The employer still sponsors the residence permit and cancels it when the job ends; the grace period to transfer or leave was reportedly cut from 30 to 14 days (June 2026). Withholding a passport is illegal.
FAQ
Do I need a No-Objection Certificate to change jobs in Qatar?
No. Law 18/2020 abolished the NOC, so a private-sector worker can change employer after serving notice — one month in the first two years of service, two months after.
What is the grace period after my residence permit is cancelled in Qatar?
It was reportedly reduced from 30 to 14 days (June 2026), with a QAR 10/day overstay fine; sources note it is unclear whether this change is temporary or permanent, so verify the current rule.
Can my employer keep my passport in Qatar?
No. Under Law No. 21 of 2015 the passport must be returned after residence-permit issuance or renewal, and may only be held with the worker's written consent; the penalty is up to QAR 25,000.