Kuwaiti Visas
In a landmark development signaling a significant improvement in bilateral relations, Kuwait has officially lifted its 19-year-old visa ban on Pakistani nationals. The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis confirmed the breakthrough on Monday, calling it a historic moment for Pakistan-Kuwait ties and a major opportunity for thousands of Pakistanis seeking employment, family reunification, business expansion, or tourism in the Gulf state.
The decision comes after nearly two decades of restricted access, during which Kuwait had suspended visa services for Pakistani citizens due to what it previously cited as “administrative reasons.” The resumption of visa issuance marks a major shift and is expected to benefit a broad cross-section of Pakistani society, particularly skilled workers and professionals eager to secure employment in one of the world’s most economically stable countries.
Mustafa Malik, the focal person for the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis, hailed the move as a diplomatic success. “This is a historic moment,” Malik stated. “The credit goes to the Kuwaiti government as well as our ministry for their tireless efforts to restore visa facilities for Pakistani citizens. This will open countless doors for our people, especially in the sectors of labor, trade, and tourism.”
Under the newly reinstated policy, Pakistani citizens can now apply for a range of visa categories including work visas, family visit visas, tourist visas, and business visas.
The applications will be processed through a streamlined online portal, with processing times ranging from just one minute to a maximum of 24 hours, depending on the visa type—making it one of the fastest systems currently available for Pakistani travelers.
Officials have also highlighted the economic significance of the announcement. With the Kuwaiti Dinar being the strongest currency in the world—one dinar currently equates to approximately Rs914—Pakistani workers in Kuwait stand to earn valuable foreign exchange, which can significantly contribute to Pakistan’s struggling economy.
The lifting of the ban not only paves the way for employment and financial stability for thousands of Pakistani households but also signals growing trust and cooperation between the two nations. It is expected that the improved access will lead to deeper economic and cultural ties, benefiting both countries in the long term.
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis urged interested applicants to begin their visa applications immediately through the designated online portal, emphasizing that this development marks a turning point for Pakistan’s overseas labor market and diaspora diplomacy.
