Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MoI) has called on expatriates who have violated residency regulations and wish to return to their home countries to come forward voluntarily and seek assistance rather than evade authorities. The appeal was made by Major Saud Hamad Alburabidi, head of the Detention Section within the MoI’s Search and Follow-Up Department, during a webinar held on October 15.
Major Alburabidi explained that individuals who have overstayed their permitted residency period but have no other pending legal cases can approach the department to request help with their departure. Each case is reviewed individually by the Follow-Up Section, which identifies the proper procedures. If further legal steps are necessary, those will be taken before departure arrangements are completed.
The Search and Follow-Up Department, which operates under the General Directorate of Passports, is tasked with monitoring violations related to entry permits, residency status, sponsorship rules, and compliance with expatriate stay conditions in Qatar. Major Alburabidi highlighted penalties for various infringements, including illegal visa trading, which can result in imprisonment of up to three years and fines reaching QR50,000 for a first offence, and fines up to QR100,000 for repeat offences. Those who enter or exit the country through unauthorized points face similar penalties, including three years in jail and a fine of QR50,000. Employers who fail to renew their employees’ visas within 90 days of expiration are subject to fines of QR10,000.
The department takes legal measures against violations such as overstaying, failing to renew residency permits, working without valid visas, and absconding from employment. Cases may be referred to prosecutors for appropriate legal action, depending on circumstances. The department also enforces prosecutorial decisions related to preventive detention, release, and the collection of fines imposed on individuals and companies.
In addition to case management, the department investigates suspected visa trading, inspects commercial establishments and offices, and conducts authorised operations to locate and apprehend violators or wanted persons.
Major Alburabidi emphasized that the detention centre under the department’s supervision serves as a temporary administrative facility to manage individuals pending departure decisions and is not a punitive institution. He noted that detainees receive 24-hour healthcare, balanced meals, and have access to consular services.
Expatriates facing residency issues are encouraged to use the Ministry of Interior’s official website and unified service centres for assistance. Those with unresolved cases after these channels may visit the Search and Follow-Up Department’s headquarters on Salwa Road for further support.