The Exit Permit Grievances Committee, set up after the new exit permit law came into existence on December 11, 2016, has resolved more than 70% of cases it has heard.

The committee, tasked with solving problems faced by expatriate workers who are denied permission by their employers to leave the country, comprises representatives of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and the ministries of Labour and Interior.

The Interior Ministry said the Grievances Committee received 498 applications until January 25, reported Gulf Times.

“The committee successfully resolved around 70% of the applications that complied with the set regulations through friendly communication with the recruiters and granted immediate exit permit approvals for 29% of the applications,” a statement from the body said.

The panel has held more than 10 meetings since its formation, with up to three meetings a week at times to review the exit permit applications.

The committee informed that of the 498 applications, 20 exit permits were issued straightaway, while 296 were issued after friendly coordination with recruiters.

“However, 177 applications had to be referred to other concerned bodies as they were out of the scope of the committee’s work. These include 138 applications linked to absconding reports, 22 applications from persons who worked for other than the recruiter, six linked to the Department of Labour, and 11 referred to the Human Rights Department. Five applications were rejected as the applicants had been included in the travel ban list or they are demanded by the Public Prosecution.”

Qatar Tribune reported that expatriates could submit their grievances to the committee themselves, on a specified form, with all supporting documents. The applicant will then be given notification with case number and date of acceptance.

The case will be raised in the first meeting after the date of registration, and shall be processed within three working days.