Kuwait has introduced a landmark foreign residency law, replacing the system that had been in place for over six decades. Issued via Amiri decree on November 28, the new legislation aims to modernize immigration policies, curb visa trading, and ensure better treatment for migrant workers.
A notable aspect of the law provides a renewable ten-year residency for the children of Kuwaiti women. This residency, granted without fees, allows children to remain eligible even if they spend over six months abroad for medical treatment or education, as long as they do not acquire Kuwaiti citizenship.
The law takes stringent measures against visa trading and exploitation, with heavy penalties for those involved in selling entry permits, residency approvals, or visa renewals. Employers are prohibited from hiring expatriates for roles other than their original recruitment purpose and are required to ensure proper authorizations for all workers.
Changes have also been made to family visit visas, which are now valid for three months, with fees determined by the Ministry of Interior. Additionally, the waiting period to hire new domestic workers has been reduced from six months to four months after a previous worker’s departure.
To tackle human trafficking and exploitation, the law imposes severe fines and imprisonment for violators. Public officials found complicit in illegal activities face stricter penalties.
The legislation includes steps toward digital transformation, with updates to the Kuwait Visa website to streamline residency application processes and improve efficiency.
Major General Ali Al Adwani, Assistant Undersecretary for Residency and Citizenship Affairs, emphasized the government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and fair treatment of all residents. The new law is set to come into effect within six months as part of Kuwait’s broader reform of its residency system.
