Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Interior has announced a three-month grace period for expatriates who have violated Law No. (21) of 2015, which regulates entry, exit, and residency in Qatar. This initiative aims to facilitate the voluntary departure of individuals who have overstayed their residency permits or entry visas without facing legal consequences.
The Ministry made the announcement via social media on February 8, 2025, confirming that the grace period begins on Sunday, February 9, 2025, and will continue for three months.
Who Is Eligible?
The grace period applies to:
- Individuals who have overstayed their residency permit (RP)
- Expatriates who have exceeded their approved duration under an entry visa
- Violators of specific provisions under Law No. (21) of 2015
How to Exit Qatar During the Grace Period
To complete their departure procedure, violators must:
- Proceed directly to Hamad International Airport for departure.
- Visit the Search and Follow-up Department at Salwa Road during official working hours (1 PM to 9 PM) for assistance with exit formalities.
The Ministry urges all residency and visa violators to take advantage of this temporary amnesty to leave Qatar without penalties or legal repercussions.
Implications of the Grace Period
This initiative aligns with Qatar’s immigration regulations to ensure compliance with residency laws while providing a humanitarian window for individuals to regularize their status. Failure to depart within the designated period may result in legal action, fines, or deportation.
Expatriates who wish to return to Qatar in the future are advised to exit the country within the grace period to avoid future entry restrictions.
For further assistance and clarification, affected individuals can contact the Ministry of Interior or visit the Search and Follow-up Department for guidance.
