When a domestic worker's contract ends and they are leaving Qatar, the employer must cancel their Iqama and work visa through MOI. This is a legal obligation — failure to cancel creates ongoing liability for the sponsor. This guide covers the complete process for 2026.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 🏛️ Authority | MOI — Ministry of Interior Qatar |
| 🌐 Apply via | Metrash2 app or portal.moi.gov.qa |
| 💰 Cancellation Fee | QAR 0–200 (varies) |
| ⏱️ Process Time | 1–3 working days |
| ✈️ Worker Must Exit | Within permit cancellation period |
📋 Before Cancellation — Settle All Dues
⚠️ Before initiating visa cancellation, you must settle ALL outstanding dues to the worker including: final month salary, unused annual leave (paid in cash), end of service gratuity, and return air ticket to home country. Failure to do this can result in the worker filing a MADLSA complaint that blocks the cancellation.
🔄 Cancellation Process — Step by Step
Pay final salary, unused leave, gratuity, and purchase return air ticket.
Collect the original Iqama card from the worker for surrender.
Login to the Metrash2 app or portal.moi.gov.qa and select Iqama/visa cancellation.
Upload employer ID, worker Iqama, and passport copy.
Pay any applicable fee electronically through the portal.
MOI cancels the Iqama. The worker can now exit Qatar and travel home.
Worker travels home on their return ticket.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't cancel the Iqama after the worker leaves?
If the Iqama remains active after the worker leaves, you continue to be their legal sponsor and may face fines. Always cancel promptly when the worker departs.
Can the worker stay in Qatar after Iqama cancellation?
After cancellation, the worker has a short grace period to exit Qatar. They cannot remain legally in Qatar on a cancelled Iqama.
Who pays the return air ticket?
The employer is legally obligated to pay for the domestic worker's return air ticket to their home country at the end of the contract.
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📌 Source: Qatar MOI — Metrash2 App — Updated 2026. Always verify at adlsa.gov.qa