Kuwait has introduced new rules for issuing residence visas for expats. Learn more about why foreigners living in Kuwait will not be allowed to leave, the circumstances under which they might not be able to renew their residency permits, and the additional immigration laws the Kuwaiti government has approved.

Kuwait is presently experiencing many noteworthy improvements. The two countries' governments approved a ban on certain foreign nationals leaving the country, modified the process for granting work permits to expatriates, and changed the regulations for extending residence permits. What has changed, and who will be affected by the new rules? Let's dive into this article and find answers to your questions.

What is an Expat?

Expatriates, commonly referred to as ex-pats, are individuals who live outside their native country. This can be due to various reasons, such as employment opportunities, education, retirement, or personal preference. Expats may choose to live abroad temporarily or for extended periods, and their experiences can vary widely depending on their host country's culture, language, and living conditions.

Why Some Expats Can't Leave Kuwait

From August 19, 2023, Kuwait imposed a rule requiring all expatriates to clear their outstanding fines before leaving the country. This particularly applies to fines incurred from traffic violations. To facilitate this, expatriates can pay their fines through several methods, including the Sahel mobile app, the Ministry of Internal Affairs' web portal, and at specific locations within Kuwait International Airport and seaports. However, it's important to note that fines for speeding and unauthorised parking in disabled spaces must be settled in person at the Traffic Department offices.

How can debts be paid off?

Foreign nationals can pay fines in several easy ways:

• The Sahel mobile app
• Website of the Internal Affairs Ministry;
• in seaport and Kuwait International Airport offices;
• In the traffic departments of Kuwait.

Changes to Residence Permit Extensions

From September 10, expatriates in Kuwait will only be able to renew their residence permits if they have settled all outstanding debts to the government. This includes fines for traffic violations and bills for utilities, phone services, electricity, and water. The Ministry of Interior has indicated that debt repayment can be facilitated through official government websites or the Sahel mobile app. Moreover, having valid health insurance is now a prerequisite for obtaining and renewing a residence permit, emphasising the importance of securing a comprehensive health insurance policy.

How can debts be settled?

• According to the Ministry of Interior, foreign nationals who want to extend their residency permit must first settle their debts using the Sahel mobile app or the official websites of government agencies.

• Health insurance is another requirement for acquiring and renewing a residency permit in Kuwait. Additionally, depending on the policy, you can save much money on treatment by receiving top-notch medical care overseas.

• When taking out a health insurance policy, we advise you to consider its advantages and features and choose verified insurance agents. In minutes, you can obtain dependable insurance with a payment guarantee. 

Impact of Kuwait's new Expat rules: Why these new rules?

As part of Kuwait's efforts to recover debts owed to the state, these actions were taken on the orders of Sheikh Talal Khalid and Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. With expatriates making up about 69% of Kuwait's population as of July 2023, these changes are significant and impact many of the country's residents. Kuwait's robust oil industry and financial sector have made it an attractive destination for workers from around the globe, including a substantial number from Egypt, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia, and Western countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Ukraine.

Additional Migration Legislation Changes

On September 11, Kuwait introduced a new regulation to prevent fraud related to work permits for foreigners. Changes to an employee's personal information on the work permit, such as name, date of birth, and nationality, must now follow a specific process, including applying for a visa cancellation service through the Sahel service and then visiting the Ministry of the Interior for the issuance of a new permit.

These updates signify Kuwait's commitment to tightening its migration policies and ensuring that debts to the government are settled. Expatriates living in or planning to move to Kuwait should stay informed about these changes and ensure compliance to avoid any complications during their stay or when attempting to leave the country.

Foreigners living in Kuwait

Given Kuwait's many foreign residents, the country's leadership found it crucial to approve the aforementioned changes. Official data indicates that as of July 2023, there were 3.3 million expatriates in Kuwait or roughly 69% of the country's total population. This number has remained relatively stable. The state is home to 4.8 million people in total.

FAQS

What are the fundamental changes introduced in the new Kuwait expat rules?

Several fundamental changes have been implemented, including:

• Resumption of family visas: Expats can now sponsor their families, including spouses and children, under specific salary requirements and other conditions.
• Introduction of visit visas: Different visit visas are now available, including family visits, tourist visits, and commercial visits, each with eligibility criteria and duration.
• Increased flexibility in work arrangements: Expats in the private sector can now engage in part-time work with their primary employer's approval, offering greater flexibility.
• Revised dependent visa requirements: The minimum salary requirement for sponsoring dependents has been raised to 800 Kuwaiti dinars, and applicants must hold a university degree relevant to their occupation.
• Streamlined residence permit process: The government aims to simplify the renewal process, potentially reducing processing times.

Am I eligible to sponsor my family under the new rules?

To sponsor your family in Kuwait, you must meet specific criteria, including:

• Hold a valid residency permit and be employed in Kuwait.
• Earning a minimum monthly salary of 800 Kuwaiti dinars (approximately USD 2,600).
• Providing suitable accommodation for your dependents.

Can I obtain a visitor visa so my family can visit me in Kuwait?

Yes, Kuwait now offers family visit visas. However, specific conditions apply, such as:

• The sponsoring expat must meet minimum salary requirements, varying depending on the relationship with the visiting family member.
• Proof of return air tickets for the visitors is mandatory.
• A written pledge not to request converting the visit visa into residency is required.

How do the new rules impact working opportunities for expats?

Introducing part-time work possibilities provides ex-pats with increased flexibility and broader career options. However, it's crucial to note that specific regulations govern part-time work, including limitations on daily working hours and employer approval requirements.