22,000 Secure Exit Permits Before New Rule Kicks In

Publish date: Monday، 30 June 2025

Starting Tuesday, July 1, expatriates working in Kuwait’s private sector will need prior approval from their employers to leave the country, as a new exit permit requirement officially takes effect. This marks the first time Kuwait is enforcing such a rule, aligning it with other Gulf countries that already require exit permits, except for the UAE.

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Previously, private sector workers with valid residency could travel freely without needing any sort of approval. But now, expats under Article 18 residency will need to request permission through either the Public Authority of Manpower’s official website or the government’s Sahel app. The employer must approve the request online before the system issues a valid exit permit.

22,000 Secure Exit Permits Before New Rule Kicks In

According to local media reports, around 22,000 expatriates have already secured their exit permits in anticipation of the new rule.

The Public Authority of Manpower clarified that the rule only applies to Article 18 residents, typically those employed in the private sector. Those with Article 19 residency (self-sponsored individuals) are not required to get an exit permit. Government employees (Article 17) have already been following this system for some time, requiring employer approval before leaving the country.

If you're working in Kuwait’s private sector and planning to travel after July 1, make sure to apply for your exit permit in advance to avoid any delays or disruptions.

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22,000 Secure Exit Permits Before New Rule Kicks In

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