I was working in a local hotel since December 2009, but they have terminated me without any notice period and are holding my passport. Now they are not giving me a release, indemnity, annual vacation pay, service charges,  air ticket … etc. What can I do and what steps should I take?

Name withheld

Answer: According to Article 41 of Kuwait Labor Law the employer may terminate the services of a worker without notice, compensation or benefit in the event where the worker has committed any of the following acts:
1. If the worker has committed a mistake that resulted in a large loss for the employer.
2. If it was found that the worker obtained employment through cheating or fraud.
3. If the worker divulged secrets related to the establishment which caused or would have caused real losses.
If you, however, have not committed any of the above then you should approach the Labor-Office in your area. The company cannot hold your passport or refuse you a release