Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 02 February 2024.
Stuck in a job that isn’t you? Ready for a career change but have no idea what else you could do – or where to start? Here is some good news for you.
According to the updated labour law announced in 2020, all workers in the State of Qatar, whether on fixed-term contracts or open-ended contracts, can change jobs without having to obtain NOC anytime during their contract period.
This article explains the procedure by which expatriate workers can change jobs in Qatar without the need for NOC from their current employer.
- Recent History of Qatar's Labour Reforms
- New Procedure to Change Job in Qatar
- Steps For Terminating Employment and Leaving Qatar
- Notice Period
- Termination During Sponsorship Change
- Probation Period
- End of Service Benefits
- Non-Compete Clause in Labour Contract
- Cost of Return Flight Ticket
- Other Conditions for Changing Job
- Time Period for Change of Job
- Fees for Employer Change
- Important Points to Note
- FAQ on Changing Jobs in Qatar
Recent History of Qatar’s Labour Reforms
Law No 21 of 2015, which deals with expatriates’ entry, exit, and residency, abolished Qatar’s existing Kafala (sponsorship) system, replacing it with a modernised, contract-based system. After Qatar’s new sponsorship law came into force in December 2016, the automatic two-year ban was removed.
In September 2020 Qatar Government announced that an NOC would not be required for employer change, subject to certain conditions. The new law has been published in the official Gazette.
In recent years Qatar’s Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (ADLSA) launched a series of laws and policies aimed at workers’ well-being, improved conditions, and greater labour mobility. Qatar’s Ministry of Labour (MoL) is now carrying forward the reforms initiated by MADLSA.
New Procedure to Change Job in Qatar
The latest steps to change jobs in Qatar, as explained by the Ministry of Labour (in July 2022), are as follows:
Step 1: The worker applies through the Ministry of Labour e-system
a) The worker wishing for a transfer of sponsorship must download and print the Change Employer Form from the Ministry of Labour (MoL) website.
b) After printing, fill in the “Change of Employer” form with all requested information, and sign the form. The form must also be signed and stamped by the new employer. The new employer’s signature is enough if the worker is changing jobs to work in a private household. Take a picture or scan the filled form.
c) Log in to the Ministry’s electronic portal using the worker’s Qatar ID (QID) number and mobile number, and upload a copy of the signed form. The mobile phone number you use to log in must be linked to your QID. Once you have entered the system, upload the completed and signed form.
NOTE: The date on which you submit the “Change of Employer” form will be the start date of your notice period with your current employer.
- For specialized professions, you should attach a certified copy of the educational qualification and a license of practice from the concerned authorities in the country.
- A health insurance certificate is required if the worker is over 60 years old.
Step 2: Employer Change (EC) number is generated
After submitting the application, an Employer Change (EC) number will appear on the screen. This number confirms that the application has been successfully submitted.
Make a note of the EC number (write it down, take a screenshot, or take a photo). You can use this number in the future to check the status of the application.
Step 3: The Ministry will process the application
The competent department at the Ministry of Labour will process the application. The Ministry may reject an application if the form is not completed correctly or if the new employer does not meet the eligibility to hire new workers. In case the application is incomplete, further information will be requested.
The worker can check the status of his application on the MoL website using his QID and EC number.
Step 4: The worker and employers receive an SMS from the Ministry
After processing the application, text messages (SMS) will be sent from the Ministry to the worker, the old employer and the new employer.
The SMS will also include the notice period to be completed.
- If the worker has worked with the employer for two years or less, the notice period is one month.
- The notice period is two months if the worker has worked with the employer for more than two years.
During the notice period, the worker must continue working with his current employer unless he and his employer have mutually agreed to shorten it.
Step 5: New employer initiates electronic contract
Upon completion of the notice period, the new employer will prepare the multilingual employment contract using MoL’s Digital Authentication System.
This process must be completed within three months from the end of the worker’s notice period. Once all the information is filled out, the new employer will print the employment contract for the worker and the employer to sign. The worker can sign the contract if he/she agrees to its provisions.
- Upon signing the contract, the new employer will upload it to the Ministry’s website for authentication.
- After the employment contract is finalized, the new employer must provide a copy to the employee.
Step 6: Request for new QID
When the contract is authenticated, the new employer should submit a request for a new QID to the Ministry of Interior through Metrash2 or the Ministry of Interior website.
Step 7: Worker starts his/her new job
Once the worker receives a new QID, he/she can start the new job.
NOTE: Both workers and employers can download a copy of the employment contract at any time through the MoL portal.
The steps above apply to private-sector workers covered by Labour Law No. 14 of 2004, agricultural and grazing workers, domestic workers and fishermen.
Steps For Terminating Employment and Leaving Qatar
- Download, the Leave Country Form from the Ministry of Labour website.
- Fill it up and sign
The application will be processed by the competent department at the Ministry of Labour, and a confirmation will be sent by text message within a week of the date of the submission of the application, confirming the required notice period.
Notice Period
If the worker has worked with the employer for two years or less, the notice period is one month. The notice period is two months if the worker has worked with the employer for more than two years.
| Employee’s Service Period | Required Notice Period |
|---|---|
| Two years or less | One month |
| More than two years | Two months |
The employer should continue to pay the wage and other benefits to the worker during the notice period, per the employment contract. The employer must also continue to provide food and accommodation (or the relevant allowances) until the termination date.
What happens if a worker does not honour the notice period?
If a worker terminates his/her contract without observing the notice period, he/she must pay the employer compensation equivalent to his/her basic wage for the notice period or the remaining part of the notice period (if partially completed). This is calculated as an amount equivalent to the basic wage for the remaining part of the notice period.
For example: If the worker’s basic wage is QAR 2,000 per month and the worker stops working two weeks before the end of a one-month notice period, he/she will have to pay his/her employer QAR 1,000 to terminate the contract legally.
NOTE: If the worker leaves Qatar without giving a notification or completing the notice period during the probation period, the worker will not be able to return to work in Qatar for one year.
Can I agree with my current employer not to fulfil my notice period?
You and your current employer can agree not to fulfil the notice period. If this is the case, you can attach a letter signed by you and your current employer.
Signed letters should explicitly state that you and your current employer have agreed not to observe the notice period stipulated by law. When determining the notice period, MoL will consider the mutual agreement.
Termination During Sponsorship Change
Can my current employer cancel my QID after I submit my application to change jobs?
The current employer cannot cancel your QID or file a false absconding case against you once you have submitted your electronic notification through MoL’s electronic notification system.
What can I do if my employer cancels my QID before I submit my application?
If your current employer cancels your QID before submitting your application, you must first submit a complaint through the MoL’s Unified Platform for Complaints and Whistleblowers or by visiting its office.
- Following the Ministry’s review of your complaint, you will need to submit a signed letter in Arabic to the Head of the Labour Relations Department requesting the reactivation of your QID.
- You should include a brief explanation in your letter as to why you requested your QID’s reactivation. Be sure to include your QID and mobile phone number in the letter.
- You should also submit a copy of your QID, the SMS notifying you of the cancellation of your QID, and a copy of the new job offer along with the signed letter.
- Keep a copy of these documents for your records.
- To reactivate your QID, MoL will coordinate with the Ministry of Interior. Your QID status can be checked through Metrash.
- You can apply to change jobs using MoL’s electronic notification system once your QID has been reactivated.
Can I cancel my application to change jobs?
You can cancel your job change application if it is still under review through MoL’s electronic notification system. You can access MoL’s electronic notification system by entering your QID and mobile numbers.
If you wish to cancel your application to change jobs after receiving approval from the Ministry but before your new employment contract has been authenticated, you must submit a written request to MoL.
To cancel your application, you must submit a signed letter in Arabic addressed to the Head of the Labour Relations Department. You should include a brief explanation of why you are cancelling your application, your EC number, a copy of your QID, and your mobile number in the letter.
Probation Period
The employment contract may contain a clause that the worker shall be subject to a probation period agreed upon by both parties. The probation period should not exceed six months from the date of joining, and the worker should not be subject to more than one probationary period with the same employer.
Employer Change During Probation
A worker may terminate the employment contract within the probation period, provided the worker complies with the following:
- The worker must notify the current employer at least one month before leaving the job through MoL’s electronic system.
- The worker’s new employer must compensate the current employer a portion of the recruitment fees and a one-way air ticket at the level agreed to by the current and new employers (not exceeding two months of the current basic wage). The compensation amount should be discussed between the new and old employer.
Termination During Probation
An employer may terminate a worker’s employment contract during the probation period if the employer finds out that the worker is unfit to carry out his/her duties. The employer must notify the worker at least one month before the termination through MoL’s electronic system.
Upon termination of the employment contract, if the worker returns to his/her country, the employer must cover the expenses of the return plane ticket.
End of Service Benefits
If the worker completed at least one year of employment and the contract was not terminated for committing any of the violations described in Article 61 of the Labour Law, the employer must still pay the worker his/her end-of-service benefits, accrued annual leave not taken and any other benefits stipulated by Labour Law No. 14 of 2004 and the signed employment contract.
End of Service Gratuity Calculator in English
If the employer terminates the contract without observing the notice period, he/she must pay the worker compensation equivalent to the worker’s basic wage for the notice period or the remaining duration of the notice period.
Non-Compete Clause in Labour Contract
Employers can only include a non-compete clause in the employment contract if the nature of the employee’s work puts him/her in a position to know the employer’s clients or the business’s secrets.
This means that after the contract termination, the employee cannot compete with the employer or participate in any competing business in the same economic sector. The duration of the non-compete clause cannot exceed one year from the date of leaving employment.
MoL has assured to issue a regulation to clarify further the provisions related to the non-compete clauses.
Cost of Return Flight Ticket
The employer must complete the worker’s repatriation procedures, including bearing the cost of a return air ticket to his/her country of residence within a maximum of two weeks from contract expiration. If the worker joins another employer before leaving the country, the repatriation obligation shall be incumbent upon the new employer.
In cases where the worker terminates the employment contract before its end and plans to leave Qatar while respecting the notice period (outside of the scope of amended Article 51 of the Labour Law), the employer shall cover part of the cost of the return air ticket proportional to the actual employment duration the worker completed out of the entire term of the employment contract.
The employer has the right to claim any charges and costs related to training the workers and obtaining a driving license from the new employer as per the law, which safeguards the rights of the employer and employee.
If I have not been paid my wages, do I still have to give notice before changing jobs?
Suppose the current employer has not fulfilled his/her legal obligations (including payment of wages). In that case, the worker can change jobs without giving any notice per amended Article (51) of the Labour Law. The worker should submit a complaint to the Ministry of Labour.
Other Conditions for Changing Job
- The new employer should have the approval of the same nationality, gender and profession. For example, an “Indian male accountant” who wants to leave his current employer and join another firm can be hired only by a company that has the approval to employ an “Indian male accountant”.
- There should be no restrictions against the new employer to stop the change.
Time Period for Change of Job
If the expatriate has completed the required contract period and has a new job contract and visa, he can immediately come back (even on the next day).
- If there is no job contract, the expatriate has to leave Qatar within a week of cancelling the residence permit.
- In special cases like termination by the employer, MoL may allow expatriates up to three months to find a new job.
When the expatriate has found a new job, he will be required to return to the Ministry and present the new employment contract. Expatriates who do not find work within this period must leave Qatar.
Fees for Employer Change
The employer change service is free of charge for workers and employers.
Important Points to Note
- The new law does not require existing employees to sign new contracts.
- Under the new law, service periods are calculated from the day employees start working for their employer.
- This includes all days of employment accumulated before the implementation of Law No 21 of 2015.
- All prospective expatriate workers can see a copy of their job contract before leaving their country of origin, as obtaining a work visa will now require a job contract approved by MoL.
- Expatriates who leave Qatar and have had their employment and Residency Permit terminated will be able to return to Qatar to take up new employment immediately after being granted a new visa.
- However, this will not be the case for workers who have been found guilty of misconduct whilst working for their previous employer in Qatar. Such workers will face four years ban.
- Employers who have confiscated passports can be fined up to QR 25,000 per worker. When enacted, this will be the toughest financial penalty against passport confiscation within the region.
PLEASE NOTE: The job change process and filling up these forms can confuse some workers. If you are unsure how to proceed, please get this done through a reputed typing centre or PRO. They would be able to guide you on the exact process.
Due to the high volume of applications nowadays, this process reportedly takes several weeks. So please be patient if you do not get a response soon.
For more information, you can contact the Ministry of Labour on the Hotline Number 16008 or send an email to [email protected].
READ NEXT: How To Calculate End of Service Gratuity in Qatar
FAQ on Changing Jobs in Qatar
Can I change my job in Qatar without NOC?
Yes, as per the new law, all employees can change jobs without having to obtain NOC anytime during their contract period.
How long is the notice period before changing employers?
If the worker has worked with the employer for two years or less, the notice period is one month. The notice period is two months if the worker has worked with the employer for more than two years.
Can I just leave Qatar and come back again to start a new job?
No, If you leave Qatar without giving a notification or completing your notice period, you will not be able to return to work in Qatar for one year.
Can my employer terminate me without a notice period?
If the employer terminates the contract without observing the notice period, he/she must pay the worker compensation equivalent to the worker’s basic wage for the notice period or the remaining duration of the notice period.
Can my employer keep my passport without my consent?
No, employers who have confiscated passports can be fined up to QR 25,000 per worker.
Related Articles:
- 11 Easy Ways To File A Labour Complaint in Qatar
- 3 Ways To Easily Check Travel Ban in Qatar
- Qatar Labour Law on Annual Leave and Holidays
- Qatar Labour Law on Working Hours and Overtime
- Wage Protection System WPS Qatar: Complete Guide
- Minimum Wage Law in Qatar: Everything You Need To Know
- Qatar Freelance Visa: Things You Should Know
- How To Find A Job In Qatar: Your Essential Guide
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Notice period not yet completed, but now I got another offer.
Hi Zia, You need to discuss this with your new company’s PRO.
Hi Doha Guide,
My application is in process of change of employer, and now status is “employer status” MOI status “Approved”. But again I want to look for another job. If I get the offer what will be the procedure.
Please advise.
Hi Zia, If your notice period is complete, your new employer should initiate the new contract process from their side.
I would want to change ajob but the office said its impossible,what should I so
Hi
Can we go for an emergency leave to our home country during Job changing process (after applying in ADLASA)
Hi Fousin, You need to check this with your employer, as you are supposed to be on notice period.
Hi Doha guide Team,
Good day
Im submitted my application on 10th November and still not received any messages about notice period. But when i check my status on ADLSA website it showing application type : Employer change notice, Expiry : 10th December.
So my question is this period is actually notice period or did i get another period after dec 10th.In short, Now my application is going through Step 3 or Step 4 based on your steps mentioned above.
Awaiting of your valuable reply
Thank you
Hi Sadik, Your application is still in Step 3. All parties will receive SMS when the notice period starts.
Sir my visa now lebor but i am chenging professional aparetar possible sir
Hi Doha Guides,if you don’t mind.i have something to ask if posible that can i transfer to another company,even I’m 1year already in my company? My current contract is unlimited duration. Thankyou so much.
Hi Jimmy, Yes, you can apply for a change of sponsor.
Hello dear sir good morning i speek little english so i wan to change company I’m exavetor opretor my basic now 1400+300 so i go to other company still up my basic so plz help me sir I’m scarad
Hi Jai Kishor, Try to get a new job offer. If you get a new job offer, you can apply for a change of employer. Either your new company PRO can help or you can contact a typing centre.
Even my current company not give NOC sir/maam?can i transfer to another sponsor?
Hi DOHA GUIDE TEAM,
Could you please advice on following;
– How does the VISA cancellation process works if we are resigning during the probation period?
– Can we file a labor complain if the employer says that he cannot cancel the visa?
Please advice.
Hi Mohamed, If you are resigning during probation, you must provide one month’s notice. Also, you may be required to share the recruitment costs (visa charges). If you are ready to pay and the employer won’t agree, you can approach the Labour Department.
Hi DOHA GUIDES TEAM,
Appreciate your prompt response.
You are welcome Mohamed.
Hello .a I have a question,my contract remain one year to finish, is it impossible to change the sponsor?
Hi Ivan, It is possible. But if there is some clause in your contract and your employer raises an objection, your change request may be rejected. So speak with your employer.
What can I do if my company holds all my documents passport,ID, ATM card and medical card, and also my company does not renew Our QID it is now 1 year 7 months without any of our documents, and it is now 7 months without renewing our Qids. Kindly assist 🙏🏿🙏🏿
Hi Nyambura, Your company is responsible to renew your QID. In this situation, you should file a labour complaint and the ministry will take action.
Hello DOHA GUIDE TEAM,
Could you please let me know if we could check the employer is blacklisted through the CR number. Any portal that we could check the status?? Please advice.
Thank you
Hi Mohamed, We don’t know any portal that publicly lists blacklisted companies.
Hi DOHA GUIDE TEAM, Thank you for your response.
You are welcome Mohamed!
Hi dear sir
I’m siyam. now I finish 2month only here in Qatar.
If possible to change another company
Without finishing my contract.
Hi Mohamed, You need to discuss this with your company. Since it is only 2 months, they may ask you to share the visa expenses.
Hello doha guide team .my contract is remain one can I able to get another surpose
Hi Ivan, Sorry, the question is not clear.
Hello,
My employer change application on Under process without NOC & resignation. But current employer stopped my duty. And they are forcing me to leave the company accommodation also.
So what will i do?
Hello DOHA GUIDE Team,
Could you please advice on following. Need your assistance on this.
There is construction material Company here in Qatar. What they do is they hire people from various countries at low salary levels and keep them for one month or two months or one year and then they force the worker to go back to their home country even if the worker wants to change employment or worker gets a new employment, these people by forcefully book the ticket and sending them back. All those people are poor, innocent and labor level workers. The BEST part is that once the worker exit from Qatar the these people cancel the VISA/QID and other documents BUT they purposely keep some link or some records or some details active on the system so the new Sponsor/Employer CAN NOT apply for VISA. This is a very crucial issue and people are suffering. These people are doing this purposely during past for many people and workers cannot do anything from their home country. The last case was during November 1st week. So, please advice what can be done to stop these and how could the new sponsor can apply for the visa. Your urgent attention to this matter is greatly appreciated .
Thank you.
Hi, If there are more workers with the same complaint and you have enough evidence to prove this case, you can contact a lawyer to represent the group.
Hi DOHA GUIDES TEAM,
Thank you for your prompt response. Any know or recommended lawyer or know contact that they could get an advice and proceed for further actions.
Hi, Unfortunately, we do not have any recommended lawyers. Please check within your community as it would be easier.
Hii my husband already changed noc from previous company,but now again he needs to change current job to another job…is it possible to change his visa 2 times in a one year???
Hi Jas, It is possible if the current employer doesn’t have any objection. Some employers may ask for reimbursement of visa costs when resigning within a short period.
Hello doha guide teams
As I told before I received second message rejected and my new company told me they will apply again after world cup and same I went to tell my current company to wait till world cup and they said they will cancel my qatar id .
Can you advise me what to do ?
Hello Doha Guides
If got an offer from Government Organisation….Does NOC is mandatory from my present employer if we want to change to Government.
My present company not giving NOC.
Hi Rayees, You need to check this with your new company’s PRO as government organisations have different rules.
Hello doha guide team
Monday ,I received a second message but it’s rejected ,can you advise me how the second message is rejected.
Even I went to labour ministry and I checked last date at Al khor they informed me my date will be 3rd December
Hi Rabin, Please check if your previous employer has raised an objection.
Where I can check the objection.
At the labour ministry I can check there?
Hi Rabin, If you can directly speak with your employer it is better. Or else you need to visit the Labour office.
Hi
Please can someone give me details regarding the sponsorship change fees ? Who have to pay for the sponsorship change Employee ? or Company (Employer) /
Where is stated in Qatar Labor Law who shall pay the costs ?
Please assist
Thank you
Hi GK, Sponsorship change fee has to be paid by the new employer.
I’m on a free professional visa. I dont have QID still. I’m looking for a job in my professional field. I just want to know following
1. Whether I still need to fill change of employer form. If so, should what should I fill QID number column.
2. Do I need any NOC from the current free visa sponsor.
Hi Mohamed, If your QID process is not complete, you don’t need the change of employer or NOC to change job.
Hi…..
My notice period will end in November 5 .but now my mind is changed and I don’t want new job. I need to go back to my country..
What I need to do this situation?
Hi Nowfal, You can speak with your company and they will help with the visa cancellation.
Hi Dohaguides,i have a question about my new employer,the new contract is approve on june 2022.but my new employer not give the new QID. I request already to my new employer on my new QID,but until now i check in metrash2 and My problem is my Qid is expire already on june 8,2022.until now not renewed,can i apply to another company?what can i do? Please help thankyou!
Hi Jem, You need to sort this out with the employer or file a labour complaint.
In how many days adlsa will approve sponsor ship transfer request , its already one month and adlsa notice expiry date is also 20th oct 2022 , also during this time can i exit Qatar and come back.
Hi Rahul, The time frame for approval varies from case to case. Please check with your new company’s PRO.
Now my Employer change is approved by ADLSA with notice period till nov 22
please confirm in this notice period time can i exit country and come back in 2-3 days?
Hi Rahul, You can if your employer allows it.
Hi Doha guide team
Good day to you !!! I received first message on 4 th October ,Today I went to labour ministry of Al khor to check Second message ,they told I will receive second message on 3rd December but my new employer is asking me to come early . Can you advise me how I skip my notice period or any other option.
I applied on adlsa without noc.
Hi Rabin, As per the Labour Law, if you are not honouring the notice period, you have to compensate your old employer by paying your basic salary for the notice period (1 month or 2 months). You have to discuss this with your current employer and see what they are saying.
Hello sir , I hope you doing good, i would like to ask you regarding sponsorship transfer, well i came to Qatar as a house driver and I have not even completed 1 month, so now my current sponsor allow me to change sponsorship , and i also got a job offer in a (limousine ) company after that my current sponsor signed to the NOC later which is i bring it from the typing center along with my job offer later and sponsorship transfer later, and then my new employer submitted it 5 October on ADLSA , and then i checked it showing under review, so is it possible to get approval by ADLSA and if yes how long it will take , thank you soo much, and I’ll wait for you response….
Hi Arbas, If your sponsor has given the NOC letter, you don’t have to worry about anything. Nowadays, it takes 1-3 weeks for approval. There is no standard time applicable to all. Good luck.
Thank you doha guides team
You are welcome Arbas!