Qatar's amnesty for undocumented migrants leaves workers and embassies in the dark
September 8, 2016
Oman recently announced an amnesty period that allows migrant workers with irregular status to transfer employment without paying fines. Migrants on non-work-related permits are permitted to leave the country permanently without incurring penalties. The amnesty period is set to end on July 31.
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced a six-month grace period, starting 11 May 2025, to regularise the status of domestic workers reported as absconding from work.
Qatar has launched a three-month amnesty period starting from 9 February 2025, allowing foreign residents with irregular immigration status to exit the country without penalties. It is not clear if residents would be able to regularise their status. Workers can exit the country through Hamad International Airport, or alternatively, they can visit the Search and Follow-up Department on Salwa Road to complete departure procedures within the specified period.
The UAE's Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security announced that it has extended its amnesty for migrants with irregular immigration status until the end of the year.
The UAE government has launched a two-month amnesty starting from 1 September 2024, allowing non-citizens with irregular immigration status to regularise their status without penalties.