Documents Required for Work Permit in Qatar
Qatar work permits are issued by the Ministry of Labour (MOL) and linked to the QID (Qatar Identification Card/residency permit) issued by MOI. Since Law No. 18 of 2020, workers no longer require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their previous employer to change jobs — provided they fulfil their contractual notice obligations. The employment contract is authenticated through the MOL's Digital Authentication System. Requirements are subject to change — confirm with MOL or your employer before applying.
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Document checklist
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Original + copy; minimum 6 months validity from date of application
MOI-issued work entry permit, obtained by the employer before your travel to Qatar
Employment contract uploaded and authenticated through the Ministry of Labour's Digital Authentication System; authentication fee approximately QAR 60 (confirm with MOL)
Medical fitness certificate from a QCHP-approved centre, typically completed inside Qatar after arrival
Some nationalities may complete the medical overseas — confirm requirements with QCHP (qchp.org.qa) and your employer
Recent colour photographs per MOI specifications
Signed offer letter from the Qatar employer confirming role, salary, and employment terms
Copy of employer's valid Qatar Commercial Registration, confirming the company is legally registered
Degree or diploma attested by home country authorities, Qatar embassy, and Qatar MOFA — required for professional categories and regulated professions
Attestation requirements vary by profession — confirm with MOL or your employer
How to apply — step by step
- 1
Employer Applies for Entry Permit via MOI Portal
Your Qatar employer applies for your work entry permit through the MOI portal. The work permit approval is processed alongside the residency permit application.
- 2
Employment Contract Authenticated via MOL
The employer uploads the signed employment contract to the Ministry of Labour's Digital Authentication System and pays the authentication fee (approximately QAR 60 — confirm current fee with MOL).
Tip: Review the contract carefully before it is authenticated — changes after authentication require a separate process.
- 3
Travel to Qatar
Travel to Qatar on the MOI-issued entry permit. Your employer confirms your arrival.
- 4
Complete QCHP Medical Inside Qatar
Undergo a medical fitness examination at a QCHP (Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners)-approved centre inside Qatar. Results are linked to your QID application.
Tip: The QCHP portal (qchp.org.qa) has the list of approved medical centres. Some nationalities may complete the medical in their home country — confirm with your employer.
- 5
Employer Submits QID Application via MOI
Your employer submits the QID (Qatar ID/residency permit) application through the MOI portal or Hukoomi eServices platform. Biometrics are collected at this stage.
- 6
Receive QID Card
Once approved, your QID is issued and delivered. You are required by Qatar law to carry your QID at all times. The QID serves as your official work authorisation and residency document.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply for a Qatar work permit?
Your Qatar employer applies on your behalf through the MOI portal. You provide required documents to your employer's HR team. The employment contract must be authenticated through the Ministry of Labour's Digital Authentication System before the QID application. Confirm the full process with your employer before travelling.
Do I need a NOC to change employers in Qatar?
No — since Law No. 18 of 2020 (effective September 2020), workers are no longer required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their previous employer to change jobs. However, you must serve the required notice period: one month's notice if employed for two years or less, or two months' notice if employed for more than two years. Confirm current rules with the Ministry of Labour.
What is the QID and how does it relate to my work permit?
The QID (Qatar Identification Card) is your combined work permit and residency document, issued by MOI. It is your proof of legal residence and employment in Qatar. You must carry it at all times. The QID is linked to your authenticated employment contract and employer sponsorship.
How do I renew a Qatar work permit?
QID (and work permit) renewal is managed by your employer through the MOI portal. Your contract must also be renewed or re-authenticated through MOL. Confirm renewal timelines and fees with your employer or MOI before your QID expires.
What medical tests are required for a Qatar work permit?
Medical tests at a QCHP-approved centre typically include communicable disease screening (HIV, TB, Hepatitis, and others). Tests are generally completed inside Qatar after arrival, though some nationalities may do them overseas — confirm with QCHP (qchp.org.qa).
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