Astana: The Mazhilis of Kazakhstan, the lower house of the country’s Parliament, has ratified an intergovernmental agreement with Qatar aimed at regulating the employment of Kazakhstani workers in Qatar. This agreement, originally concluded on February 14, 2024, in Doha, aims to protect the labor rights of Kazakhstani citizens working in Qatar.
According to Trend News Agency, the agreement provides Kazakhstan citizens the opportunity to officially work in Qatar while ensuring their rights are protected. The agreement, along with a standard employment contract, mandates that Qatari employers provide Kazakhstani workers with round-trip airfare, furnished housing or a housing allowance, transportation to and from work or reimbursement for transportation expenses, and an annual paid leave of at least three weeks, along with an additional three-day leave.
The agreement also outlines procedures for the safe return of Kazakhstani citizens in cases of contract termination, disputes, or emergencies. To facilitate the implementation of the agreement and to address employment opportunities, exchange information, and resolve disputes, a joint committee will be established. This committee will include three representatives from each participating country.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Labor of the State of Qatar are the authorized bodies responsible for implementing the agreement. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports that as of the beginning of 2025, 710 Kazakhstani citizens have been officially employed in Qatar under this agreement.