Onboarding Process: Step-by-Step Explanation

Step 1: Job Offer and Acceptance 📩

Trigger: After selecting the right candidate.

Action:

• Job Title: Clearly define the position, job responsibilities, and reporting structure.
• Compensation: Outline salary, allowances (housing, transport), and bonuses.
• Start Date: Set an agreed-upon date for the employee’s start of work.
• Working Hours: Specify working hours (generally 48 hours per week, 6 days).
• Benefits Overview: Include health insurance, leave entitlements, and end-of-service gratuity.
• Probation Period: Typically 3-6 months, during which termination can occur with shorter notice periods.

Outcome: A signed offer letter allows the process to move to the formal contract stage.

Step 2: Employment Contract 📝

When It’s Used: Once the job offer is accepted.

Action:

• Job Description: Clearly define the scope of work and specific responsibilities.
• Compensation: State salary, allowances, overtime rates, and any additional benefits.
• Leave Entitlements:
  • Annual Leave: Minimum of 21 days after 1 year of service.
  • Sick Leave: Up to 6 weeks, based on duration of service.
  • Maternity Leave: 50 days of paid leave.
• Working Hours: Specify regular hours and any applicable overtime policies.
• Termination Conditions: Include the notice period (1-2 months) and termination grounds.

Outcome: A signed employment contract ensures legal compliance and mutual understanding of terms.

Step 3: Residency and Work Permit 🛂

When It’s Used: Before the employee begins work.

Action:

• Work Visa: Employers must sponsor and arrange a work visa for foreign employees.
• Residency Permit: Once the employee arrives, register them for a residency permit via Qatar’s Ministry of Interior.
• Medical Examination: Conduct mandatory health checks, including blood tests and X-rays.

Outcome: The employee is legally authorized to live and work in Qatar.

Step 4: Tax and Social Security Registration 💰

When It’s Used: Before the first salary payment.

Action:

• Tax Registration: Ensure compliance with local corporate tax laws (employees face no income tax).
• Social Security Contributions: Applicable for Qatari nationals; ensure accurate registration.
• Bank Account: Assist the employee in opening a Qatari bank account for salary payments.

Outcome: Employees are financially integrated into Qatar’s payroll system.

Step 5: Health and Safety Orientation 🦺

When It’s Used: On the employee’s first day or earlier.

Action:

• Safety Protocols: Familiarize employees with workplace safety procedures.
• Emergency Procedures: Provide training on evacuation and first-aid processes.
• PPE Provision: Provide necessary personal protective equipment.

Outcome: Employees are prepared to follow safety protocols.

Step 6: Payroll and Benefits Enrollment 📊

When It’s Used: Within the first week of employment.

Action:

• Bank Details: Collect details for salary processing.
• Benefits Enrollment: Ensure the employee is registered for mandatory health insurance and other perks.
• Gratuity System: Prepare for end-of-service gratuity calculations.

Outcome: Employees are seamlessly integrated into the company’s payroll and benefits system.

Step 7: Policies, Training, and Feedback 📚

When It’s Used: Throughout the first month and probationary period.

Action:

• Company Policies: Share the organization’s code of conduct and HR guidelines.
• Training Programs: Conduct onboarding sessions covering company values, culture, and role-specific tasks.
• Feedback Mechanism: Provide regular feedback during the probationary period.

Outcome: Employees are fully aligned with organizational standards and expectations.

Summary Table of Key Onboarding Steps in Qatar

Key Takeaways

• Employment contracts in Qatar must include clear terms on job roles, compensation, and leave entitlements.
• Work and residency permits are mandatory for foreign employees and must be secured before their start date.
• A structured onboarding process ensures legal compliance and smooth employee integration.