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Change in family visa rules in Qatar

by Expatguru - 01/08/2012

"This article describes the latest changes in family visa rules in Qatar for expatriates."

Qatar has been a booming country as far as Teaching Jobs are concerned, particularly those pertaining to Higher Education. The number of Universities just in Doha region alone is something to be believed. The State of Qatar has been promoting a large number of quality western institutions in an exclusive area called Education City on the outskirts of Doha. Most teachers in these Universities prefer to stay on campus where accommodation is provided by authorities.

I would like to inform readers about some very important and major changes for those planning to bring their families into Qatar. With effect from January 1, 2012, the Passports and Expatriates Division of the Ministry of Interior, Qatar, has made sweeping changes in the rules for those expatriates planning to bring their families into the country. The new rule says that a minimum salary of QR 10,000 per month is a pre-requisite to bring their families.

No one is quite sure about the reason for this sudden change in the rules, which has taken everyone by surprise. Earlier, the minimum salary requirement was QR 7,000 per month which then was raised to QR 8,000 per month. This has now become QR 10,000 per month with immediate effect. I would like to remind the readers that just a couple of months back, all Qatari employees in Government organizations were given a 60% raise in their salaries. All Qataris working in Defence and state-run security organizations were given a 120% raise. Most private organizations followed suit, but only for Qataris. One can guess that the new change in the rules is probably to shield families from the effects of inflation.

Potential expatriates planning to bring their families into Qatar must take note of this important change in the rules. Do make sure that you negotiate your contract well with your potential employers, so as not to be disappointed later on. This rule is only for fresh cases, i.e., people who plan to bring their families henceforth, and not for those who are already staying with their families in Qatar.

During the past two times when the minimum salary limit was raised, employers had a workaround. They included House Rent Allowance as part of the salary so that the sum of basic pay and allowance adds up to more than the minimum limit. Where accommodation was provided by the employers, the contract papers showed that either housing allowance or accommodation would be given. It would be quite interesting to see whether this new change in the rules brings in higher salaries or not to expatriates. In the meantime, do be aware of this change while negotiating with your potential employer in Qatar.

Expatguru

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