Doha: The occupation, details of sponsor as well as permanent and present addresses of an expatriate are to prominently figure in the identity (ID) card once a new law that was passed yesterday comes into force shortly.
The ID cards will also mention the holder's nationality, age, date and place of birth and blood group.
The Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday passed Law No 37 of 2005 that would replace the existing legislation governing the ID cards that was implemented 40 years ago. The law is to become effective once it is published in the official gazette.
According to the new legislation, ID cards are to be compulsorily issued to citizens and residents above the age of 16 years.
It will be optional for those under 16 years of age, including nationals and expatriates, to obtain an ID card. They can have one if they wish to.
It is not mandatory for foreigners staying in Qatar for work for up to six months to obtain an ID card.
The validity of an ID card issued to an expatriate will be for the duration for which his visa is valid. ID cards are to clearly mention dates of issue and expiry as also serial number and the number of the holder's visa.
Any change in sponsorship or permanent or present address of an ID card holder is to be notified to the authorities concerned, the Department of Nationality, Passports and Immigration at the Ministry of Interior, within 30 days. Photograph of the holder is a must in case of both nationals and residents.
However, the validity of an ID card of a national will be 10 years if the holder is over 16 years. In case of a holder being less than 16 years, the validity period will be five years.
A national or expatriate will not be allowed to lend his ID card to any one with the purpose of seeking benefits in violation of the laws of the land. The provisions apply equally to persons accepting anyone else's ID card with an intent to do things in violation of the law.
A national or expatriate cannot under any circumstance hold more than one ID card. If possible, an ID card applicant will be required to provide a four-letter name, including his family name or the name of his tribe.
An ID card is to be compulsorily signed by its holder as well as by the authority concerned from the competent department at the Interior Ministry.
© The Peninsula 2005
