My employer has taken my passport and is refusing to give it back to me even after I demanded it, citing that it is “a company policy” or that it is detained for “safeguarding” purposes, how should I react in such a case?

Withholding an expatriate employees’ travel or identification documents such as (passport or smart card) is illegal. In such an event, a case should be reported to the police station as well as LMRA's Expat Protection Centre for further assistance.

Last Update: Tuesday 28 November 2023

My employer has taken my passport and is refusing to give it back to me even after I demanded it, citing that it is “a company policy” or that it is detained for “safeguarding” purposes, how should I react in such a case?

Updating LMRA Services Procedures