The pandemic has changed the future for so many in Doha, and some of you may be in the process of seeking new paths outside Qatar. Kausar has listed her top tips to make the process of an international move out of Qatar as smooth as possible.
A @newindoha guest post by Kausar Tahir
1. HR should provide you with a package that outlines how much time you have left (2 months or 3 months) until your RP is cancelled. This should also include severance details (unless the job was terminated).
2. Before your RP is cancelled, ensure that you sell and transfer your car(s) from your name, as well as transfer or exit your nanny or domestic help.
3. The sponsor needs to cancel the dependents (spouse and kids) on Metrash, and then inform the employer for the cancellation of the RP.
TIP: Make sure the passport number matches the RP. If you have had your passport renewed, it needs to be updated in Metrash or else your RP cannot be cancelled.
4. MONEY
Figure out how you will wire your money to your next destination. Exchange any balance Qatari Riyals you have left at the airport.
5. TICKETS
Usually, your air tickets are booked through your employer as part of repatriation.
6. “THE STUFF”
Get a container and ship, because it is impossible to fit “life” into 2 suitcases per person.
Get this out of the way first (while simultaneously packing what you will need right away in suitcases) as your container can take up to 3 months to arrive.
7. POLICE CLEARANCE
Submit your police clearance request on Metrash. Once approved you will need to pick it up from the Police Clearance Certificate Office (CEID) on Salwa road.
8. KIDS
Fill out school withdrawal forms.
Return library books or iPads etc so that the school can clear your account and give you your child(ren)’s report cards.
9. APARTMENT/VILLA
•Give a termination letter for your lease (usually at least 30 days prior) so that your lease can end at the same time as your departure.
•Schedule an inspection so that your deposit can be returned.
•Pay all Kahramaa bills.
•Cancel internet connection.
10. CAR
Make sure you have no outstanding tickets at the Ministry of Transport.
11. CREDIT CARD
•You will need to cancel your credit card at least 45 days before you leave in order to settle any outstanding payments and get the bank clearance letter.
•Plan to have sufficient cash for that period of time. In addition, when you receive your severance pay, your account may be frozen for about a week so cash is always handy (do not rely on just debit cards).
12. PETS
If you are taking a pet, make sure you work with a vet to help you figure out the countries requirements. Some items have to be done beforehand. You would want the pet to go accompanied with the cargo (much much cheaper than having the vet send your pet later) so make sure you watch timelines.
Thank you Kausar for sharing these helpful tips with us. We wish you and everyone else who will be closing the Doha chapter of their lives all the very best. Please share and forward these helpful tips to anyone who might need a clear plan. This post is based on Kausar’s experience and will not apply to every situation.
Please share your experiences with us.
Kausar Tahir is one of the founding members of @communityconnectDoha currently repatriating back to Toronto. @Communityconnectdoha is still up and running in Qatar
Community Connect Doha is a support platform that aims to share ideas, resources, and connections to build a stronger community. Not only do they highlight community resources, they connect people to resources and run educational workshops.
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