MENA Employers keep passports - anyone have trouble with this?

[chcoloatechip17 4]

Hi, even though this question is about MENA countries, Kuwait specifically, I thought it may get more views here.....

 

In the middle east, especially Gulf countries like Kuwait, your employer keeps your passport.  My fiance is concerned that when he needs to use his passport for the medical exam, police report and interview stage, what if his employer delays or gives him a hard time about giving my fiance his passport?  He will show his employer his NOA2 letter and interview/medical instructions as proof he needs it for a valid reason.

 

Has anyone in any Gulf country had a problem with this and what was your experience?  

 

Especially if the CO keeps your passport for AP and visa issuance?  We're just trying to be prepared for any of this.

 

Thanks

[Auds 223]

This has changed very much in the UAE now and its recognized for what it is - illegal!

 

nothing can be done/advised really.  Its his relationship with his boss/company.  There are worst case scenarios like filing a case/ going to embassy etc... but lets leave that for now.

 

you will have decent notice of at least 3 weeks for med/intw so hopefully okay.  If in AP for long - passports are returned.

[chcoloatechip17 4]

Thanks Auds, but I don't understand what you mean.  So it's illegal for employers to keep your passport?  Did you have any problem getting yours when you needed it? 

[Auds 223]

30 minutes ago, chcoloatechip17 said:

Thanks Auds, but I don't understand what you mean.  So it's illegal for employers to keep your passport?  Did you have any problem getting yours when you needed it? 

http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/what-to-do-when-employer-insists-on-retaining-passport-2015-10-27-1.608248

 

Excuse quick answer - weekend morning and chat with husband in US all night.

 

international law passports must be retained by holder.

 

of course some MENA country employers dont follow.

 

i run my own business and in the past when i worked it was wit companies who would not hold ppt.  My sister's employer i remember did but they had a system and easy to get when reqd.

 

as i said our personal experiences mean nothing - his employer, company rules and his relationship counts with this.

 

 

[Phillygirl 17]

it depends to company, most of the company here in Kuwait, the employers not keeping the passports like mine, we keep our own passport, we will give back to the employers when visa renewal only and after renewal they will give it back to us. During medical and police clearance, they need passport copy only..You can give your original passport only during interview stage that's all. Based on my experience.

Good luck to you.