Qatar now gives expats just 14 days to leave after their residence permit (Iqama) is cancelled — down from 30.
The Ministry of Interior announced the change in June 2026. Here’s who it affects and what to do.
What the New Rule Says
The grace period to leave Qatar after your residence permit (Iqama) is cancelled has dropped from 30 days to 14 days.
Captain Ali Ahmed Ali al-Kuwari of the Airport Passports Department announced the change during a Ministry of Interior webinar on safe travel procedures.
Who This Applies To
The rule applies to residents whose residence permit is cancelled — not to tourists on a short visit visa.
- Employees whose permit is cancelled after resignation or termination
- Dependents sponsored under a residence permit that is cancelled
- Anyone whose residence permit lapses without renewal
The 14-day countdown starts from the cancellation date, so act quickly once you know your permit is ending.
What You Pay for Overstaying
Stay beyond the grace period and you’ll pay a fine of QR10 per day.
This is separate from visit-visa overstay penalties, which are far higher. Don’t confuse the two:
| Situation | Daily Fine |
|---|---|
| Overstaying after residence permit cancellation (beyond 14 days) | QR10 per day |
| Overstaying a visit visa | QR200 per day |
Your Options Before the Deadline
You need to either leave Qatar, transfer your sponsorship, or otherwise regularise your status inside the 14 days. Before travelling, also check your records and dues.
- Leave Qatar — book your departure early, as fares from Doha can climb close to deadlines. Qatar Airways and other carriers fly daily from Hamad International Airport.
- Transfer your sponsorship — if you have a new employer lined up, complete the transfer within the grace period to stay legally.
- Update your records — residents can move a residence permit to a new passport through the Metrash app.
- Check before you fly — clear any outstanding fines or travel bans via Metrash before heading to the airport.
If you need a short stay while arranging a transfer, compare hotels in Doha.
This residence-permit rule is separate from Qatar’s visit-visa changes. The country’s temporary visa extension for stranded travellers also ended in June 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 14-day rule apply to tourists on a visit visa?
No. It applies only to residents whose residence permit (Iqama) is cancelled. Visit visas follow their own rules, and overstaying one costs QR200 per day.
When does the 14-day countdown start?
From the date your residence permit is cancelled — not from when you find out. Confirm the exact date so you don’t miscount.
Can I transfer to a new sponsor instead of leaving?
Yes. If you secure a new employer and complete the sponsorship transfer within the 14 days, you don’t need to exit the country.
What happens if I stay longer than 14 days?
You’ll be fined QR10 per day for every day past the grace period. Settle any fines before you travel to avoid problems at the airport.
Sources
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
