How To File A Complaint Against Employer In Qatar?

In Qatar, employees can file complaints against their employers through various channels provided by the Ministry of Labour. These include online platforms, SMS services, mobile apps, and in-person visits to labour offices. The process aims to protect workers’ rights and resolve disputes efficiently.

Understanding Labour Rights in Qatar

Qatar has implemented several measures to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Understanding these rights is crucial before filing a complaint against an employer.

Qatar Labour Law

The Qatar Labour Law (Law No. 14 of 2004) and its amendments form the foundation of employment regulations in the country. Key aspects include:

• Working hours and overtime
• Annual leave and public holidays
• End of service benefits
• Health and safety standards
• Termination procedures

Law No. (15) of 2017 on Domestic Workers

1. Defines key terms like employer, worker, domestic work, employment contract, and wage.
2. Requires written employment contracts ratified by the Department, issued in triplicate.
3. Contracts must specify details like wages, job duties, and duration.
4. Workers must generally be recruited through licensed recruitment offices.
5. Sets minimum age for domestic workers at 18, with a maximum of 60 (with possible exemptions).
6. Establishes a paid probation period for workers.
7. Requires employers to provide proper food, housing, healthcare, and dignified treatment.
8. Mandates monthly wage payments in Qatari currency, with restrictions on deductions.
9. Sets maximum working hours at 10 per day, with breaks, unless otherwise agreed.
10. Entitles workers to weekly rest days and annual paid leave.
11. Outlines procedures for contract termination and worker rights.
12. Establishes an end-of-service gratuity for workers employed for one year or more.
13. Details dispute resolution procedures.
14. Sets penalties for violations of the law.
15. Prohibits employers from keeping workers’ passports and employing workers abroad without consent.

Wage Protection System (WPS)

The Wage Protection System is a crucial mechanism to ensure timely payment of salaries. Under this system:

• Employers must transfer salaries to employees’ bank accounts within 7 days of the due date
• Non-compliance can result in penalties for the employer

Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund

This fund was established to:

• Provide care for workers
• Guarantee workers’ rights
• Ensure a healthy and safe working environment
• Secure financial payments awarded by Labour Dispute Settlement Committees when a company becomes insolvent

Reasons to File a Complaint

Common reasons for filing a complaint against an employer in Qatar include:

1. Non-payment or delay in salary
2. Unfair termination
3. Breach of contract terms
4. Poor working conditions
5. Passport confiscation
6. Denial of annual leave or end-of-service benefits
7. Workplace discrimination or harassment
8. Violation of health and safety regulations

Methods to File a Complaint

Qatar offers multiple channels for workers to file complaints against their employers:

1. Unified Platform for Complaints and Whistleblowers

This online platform allows workers to:

• File a complaint
• Report a violation
• Follow up on complaints
• Review personal data registered in the Ministry’s database

Steps to submit a complaint:

1. Visit the Ministry of Labour Complaints and Whistleblower Portal ( Here is the direct link: https://www.mol.gov.qa/En/services/Pages/ServiceDetails.aspx?itemid=7)
2. Click on “Submit A Complaint (Login As Individual)”
3. Log in using QID / Visa Number + Mobile Number
4. Request and enter OTP
5. Follow the instructions to complete the complaint submission

2. SMS to Ministry of Labour Hotline

Workers can submit complaints via SMS:

1. Open the text message (SMS) option on your phone
2. Type 5 followed by your Qatar ID Number or Visa Number
3. Send the SMS to 92727

This service is available 24/7 and in multiple languages.

3. Ministry of Labour Hotline

For direct communication:

• Call 16008 to raise a complaint
• For issues related to workers’ accommodation conditions, call 40280660

4. Amerni Mobile App

The Amerni app provides electronic services in 33 languages. Here is how you can submit the complaint through it:

• Download and install the “Amerni Qatar” app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
• Log in using your Tawtheeq (NAS) account credentials
• Complete the initial setup by following the Amerni Mobile App User Guide
• On the home page, click on the “Submit Labour Complaint” icon
• Select your preferred language from the available options
• Enter the details of your complaint in the provided form and submit

5. Email Complaint

Send an email detailing your complaint to: info@mol.gov.qa

6. Self-service Kiosks

The Ministry has placed self-service kiosks around Qatar where workers can submit complaints anonymously. These kiosks offer services in 10 languages, including Arabic, English, Nepalese, Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, and Tamil.

7. In-person Complaint at Labour Offices

Workers can visit Labour Department Offices to file complaints directly:

• Locations: Industrial Area and Al-Shahaniya
• Operating hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Steps for in-person complaints:

1. Note down the full name and location of the company
2. Get the contact number of the company’s manager or Mandoob
3. Bring a copy of your Passport and Qatar ID
4. Fill up the complaint form at the office
5. Submit the form to the labour inspector
6. Explain your complaint and provide any supporting documents

8. Ministry Website Form

Submit complaints through the Ministry of Labour website:

1. Go to the Complaints Page on the Ministry of Labour Website (Here is the direct link: https://www.mol.gov.qa/en/contactus/Pages/ComplaintsAndSuggestions.aspx)
2. Choose the type as “Suggestion” or “Query”
3. Enter your name, email, phone number, and Qatar ID number
4. Provide details of your complaint in the description box
5. Click “Submit”

Filing a Complaint with the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC)

The NHRC is another avenue for filing complaints related to human rights violations, including labour issues.

NHRC Website Complaint

1. Visit the NHRC Website’s Complaint Form Page (https://nhrc-qa.org/login)
2. Create an account if you don’t have one
3. Log in and submit the complaint form

NHRC Email or Fax Complaint

1. Download the Complaint Form from the NHRC website (https://www.nhrc-qa.org/storage/settings/file_62fa190d9d2c1_1660557581.pdf)
2. Complete the form with your contact information
3. Attach necessary documents (ID card/passport copy, supporting documents)
4. Send via email to c@nhrc.org.qa or fax to 00974-44444013

NHRC Office Visit

Visit the NHRC office in Fereej Abdulaziz to submit your complaint in person.

The Complaint Process

Understanding the complaint process can help manage expectations:

1. Submission: File the complaint through any of the available channels
2. Acknowledgment: Receive a complaint reference number
3. Initial Review: The Ministry reviews the complaint
4. Mediation: Attempt to resolve the issue amicably between parties
5. Investigation: If mediation fails, the Ministry investigates further
6. Referral: Complex cases may be referred to Labour Dispute Settlement Committees
7. Decision: A decision is made based on the investigation or committee hearing
8. Appeal: If unsatisfied, parties can appeal the decision within a specified timeframe

Checking Complaint Status

After filing a complaint, you can track its status:

Ministry Website

1. Visit the Ministry of Labour website complaint status page (https://www.mol.gov.qa/En/Pages/ServiceDetails.aspx?itemid=47)
2. Enter the establishment registration number
3. Enter the complaint number
4. Select the year from the drop-down menu
5. Click “Submit”

Amerni Mobile App

1. Open the Amerni mobile app
2. Sign in using Tawtheeq (NAS) username and password
3. Select “Individual”
4. Click on “Labour Complaint Follow-up”
5. Select the year
6. Follow the instructions

Labour Dispute Settlement Committees

For complex cases, Labour Dispute Settlement Committees play a crucial role:

• They improve workers’ access to justice
• Disputes are first presented to the Labour Ministry for amicable resolution
• If unresolved, the committee arbitrates within three weeks

Workers’ Rights During the Complaint Process

It’s important to know your rights while your complaint is being processed:

1. Protection from retaliation: Employers are prohibited from taking adverse actions against employees for filing complaints
2. Right to representation: You can appoint a representative to act on your behalf
3. Language assistance: Interpreters are available if needed
4. Access to information: You have the right to be informed about the progress of your complaint

Preparing Your Complaint

To increase the chances of a favorable outcome:

1. Gather evidence: Collect all relevant documents, emails, and records
2. Be specific: Provide clear, concise details about the issue
3. Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with Qatar’s labour laws
4. Keep records: Document all interactions related to your complaint
5. Stay professional: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor throughout the process

Potential Outcomes

Complaint resolutions can vary:

• Amicable settlement: The issue is resolved through mediation
• Compensation: You may receive financial compensation for damages
• Reinstatement: In cases of unfair dismissal, you might be reinstated to your position
• Penalties for the employer: The company may face fines or other penalties
• Change of sponsor: In severe cases, you may be allowed to change employers without a No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Changing Employers After Filing a Complaint

If you wish to change employers after filing a complaint:

1. The Labour Department can assist if they find the employer at fault
2. You may be allowed to transfer to a new employer without an NOC
3. Ensure you have a job offer from a new employer before initiating the transfer process

Preventing Future Disputes

To minimize the risk of future employment disputes:

1. Understand your contract: Carefully read and understand all terms before signing
2. Keep records: Maintain copies of all employment-related documents
3. Communicate: Address issues with your employer promptly and professionally
4. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with changes in Qatar’s labour laws
5. Seek advice: Consult with legal professionals or labour organizations when in doubt

FAQs

1. Can I be deported for filing a complaint against my employer?
   No, filing a legitimate complaint is your right and should not lead to deportation.
2. How long does the complaint process usually take?
   Simple cases may be resolved in a few weeks, while complex cases can take several months.
3. Can I withdraw my complaint if the issue is resolved?
   Yes, you can withdraw your complaint if the matter is settled amicably with your employer.
4. What if my employer retaliates after I file a complaint?
   Retaliation is illegal. Report any retaliatory actions to the Ministry immediately.
5. Can I file a complaint if I’m on probation?
   Yes, labour laws protect all employees, including those on probation.
6. Is there a time limit for filing a complaint?
   Generally, complaints should be filed within one year of the incident or termination of employment.
7. Can I file a complaint anonymously?
   While some channels allow anonymous complaints, providing your details usually leads to more effective resolution.
8. What if I don’t have all the required documents?
   File your complaint with the documents you have. The Ministry can help gather additional information if needed.
9. What should I do if I think my employer has breached my contract or violated Qatar labor law?
   You can lodge a complaint at the Ministry of Labour while you are still employed or within one year after the end of your employment relationship. The Ministry will invite both parties to a meeting to seek resolution.
10. How can I challenge a disciplinary action taken by my employer?
    Send a written grievance to your employer within 7 days of being notified of the disciplinary penalty. If you’re unhappy with the response or don’t receive one within 7 days, you can complain to the Ministry within the next 7 days.
11. What if my employer accuses me of deliberately causing damage and wants to deduct my wages?
    Lodge a complaint at the Ministry of Labour within 7 days of being notified about the deduction. The Ministry will decide whether to cancel, reduce or agree with the deduction.
12. How long does the dispute resolution process usually take?
    The Ministry aims to resolve issues within 7 days. If unresolved, cases go to the Dispute Settlement Committee, which should issue a decision within 3 weeks.
13. Do I need to bring any documents when filing a complaint?
    Yes, bring proof to support your complaint, including any relevant documents. For the Dispute Settlement Committee hearing, prepare a calculation of your losses in Arabic.
14. Can I appeal the decision of the Dispute Settlement Committee?
    Yes, you have 15 days to appeal the DSC’s decision. If not appealed within this time, the decision becomes final.

Exit permit requirements