In order for overseas Filipino workers or OFWs to get a working visa, a Qatari national is needed to process it, which will also become the sponsor.

The sponsor will have to process the employment permit, employment contract, and work entry visa, which will be sent back to the prospective employee or OFW in the Philippines. The OFW must then get the visa stamped at the Qatari embassy before registering with the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency or POEA and securing an exit clearance to be able to depart for Qatar.

The Qatari embassy will require the following to be able to process the working visa of an OFW:

• Application Form
• Visa notice
• Passport
• Medical certification that applicant is fit to travel, issued by a Qatari embassy accredited clinic
• NBI Clearance authenticated by the DFA
• 2 colored passport-size 2x2 photos with white background
• Payment done via credit or debit card

Upon clearance by the Qatari embassy, the OFW can now travel to Qatar bringing the work entry visa, as well as any other necessary documents to apply for and process the Work Residence Permit.

Employers usually inform the OFW about the documents needed. The Work Residence Permit can be processed as soon as the OFW arrives in Qatar through the Immigration Department. These usually take about six weeks to release, during which time the OFW cannot leave the country.

It is usual for OFWs to be required to undergo a medical check up which includes a test for HIV, an x-ray and a blood test. OFWs may also be required to undergo fingerprinting for identification purposes.

Mandatory Medical Insurance for OFWs in Qatar

Employers or sponsors also generally assist the applicant during this stage. A Work Residence Permit, once granted to OFWs, can be valid anywhere from six months to two years, and will have to be renewed at least one month before expiry. 

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