MoI Reduces Grace Period After Residency Cancellation to 14 Days, Says Official

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced that residents whose permits are cancelled must now leave Qatar within 14 days, a significant reduction from the earlier 30‑day grace period. The update was confirmed by Captain Ali Ahmed Ali Al‑Kuwari of the Airport Passport Department during a webinar organized by the MoI’s Public Relations Department under the theme “Safe Travels.”

Capt. Al‑Kuwari explained that overstaying beyond the two‑week period will result in fines of QR10 per day. He also stressed that visitors must carefully check the visa sticker affixed to their passports, as overstays on visit visas incur a penalty of QR200 per day. “Many fail to notice the exact number of days allowed,” he cautioned, urging travelers to verify their permitted stay.

The official advised residents and visitors to use the Metrash app before travelling to settle fines, traffic violations, or other dues electronically. He noted that individuals with travel bans must coordinate with the relevant department to lift restrictions before departure.

Highlighting airport services, Capt. Al‑Kuwari encouraged passengers to use the electronic gate (e‑gate) system, which operates 76 gates across arrival and departure terminals at Hamad International Airport. The service, offered free of charge, allows immigration procedures to be completed in 10–15 seconds, significantly reducing queues. He reminded travelers to follow floor markings at passport counters and e‑gates to ensure smooth processing.

Additional guidance was provided for residents transferring permits to new passports via Metrash, and for newborns, whose residence permits must be obtained under the father’s sponsorship. Without proper documentation, newborns cannot re‑enter Qatar.

The MoI reiterated that these measures aim to streamline travel procedures, safeguard compliance, and enhance passenger convenience at Qatar’s airports.

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