What level of responsibility do companies have under the Kafala System?

Under the Kafala System, companies are indeed responsible for the visa processes and working conditions of their employees. This system, commonly used in several Middle Eastern countries, ties workers’ residency permits to their employers, which means that the companies have significant control over the workers’ legal status and therefore their ability to remain in the country.

This includes ensuring that workers have valid residency permits and that they are treated fairly in their job environment. Companies must adhere to legal standards regarding working conditions, which encompasses issues such as working hours, safety protocols, and overall treatment of employees. These responsibilities align with the need to maintain lawful and ethical employment practices within the context of the Kafala framework.

Other options present a skewed understanding of the Kafala System. For instance, stating that companies are not responsible for the workers' welfare ignores the legal and ethical obligations that employers have under this arrangement. Merely suggesting that companies must provide housing or free medical care minimizes the extent of their broader responsibilities, which include compliance with labor laws, workers’ rights, and ensuring proper working conditions.