MPs are pushing for tighter scrutiny of expatriate accountants and auditors before work visas are issued, arguing that unqualified hires are slipping through due to weak checks. Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), however, maintains that its current system already ensures professional standards are met. Jaleela Alawi, one of the MPs backing the proposal, said the absence of proper records on foreign accountants and auditors had left a gap in oversight. Rule “No one knows how many expats are working in these roles because there’s no rule requiring their academic qualifications to match their jobs. That means plenty are working without the right background,” she said. The proposal, also supported by Dr Hisham Al Ashiri, Hassan BuKhumas, Mohsen Al Asbool, and Mohammed Al Olaiwi, calls for the LMRA to check academic records and work experience before clearing permits. Backers say this would stop unqualified workers from stepping into skilled jobs, especially in fields that handle financial records and consumer trust. They also argue that keeping proper records would help weed out those working outside the rules. Process The LMRA, however, says work permit requests already go through a process that applies to all jobs, not just accounting and auditing. “Employers wanting […]