New rules for temporary work permits

All workers with a valid labour card and residency visa can now apply for temporary work permits. The earlier rule which required workers to complete one year with an employer before applying for a work permit has been lifted, according to a report in 'Al Khaleej' newspaper.

However, the Ministry of Labour will issue permits only to those workers who meet the conditions stipulated by the ministry.

Eligibility criteria for obtaining a temporary work permit include a valid residency visa and labour card. Also, the application request must possess authorised signatures of both the current establishment and that of the seeker.

However, the ministry will also consider cases wherein the current employer has breached the contract with the employee; has not paid salary for more than 60days; or if the worker was not told of the planned closure of the firm; or if the company has stayed closed for more than two months.

In case of closure of company the worker is required to inform the ministry and obtain approval to that effect from the Department of Labour Inspection officials before applying for a temporary work permit.
 
The permit will be valid strictly only for a period of six months or until the validity of the labour card, which ever comes first.

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