Kuwait Launches 15-Year Visa Scheme for Foreign Investors
Kuwait introduces a 15-year residency visa to attract major foreign investments and boost the local economy.
Kuwait has announced an exciting new long-term residency programme for foreign investors. Eligible business owners can now secure residency permits for up to 15 years. This new initiative aims to attract high-value investments into the country while maintaining strong regulatory standards.
Read More: How to Get a Visa for Kuwait
The new rules were published in Kuwait’s official gazette, Kuwait Alyoum, under Cabinet Resolution No. 651 of 2026. This legal framework sets clear financial and operational guidelines for anyone looking to get this extended residency.
Who Can Apply for the 15-Year Residency?
The long-term visa is open to several categories of applicants, making it easier for families to settle in Kuwait together. Those eligible include:
- Owners of licensed investment businesses
- Business partners and senior executives
- Immediate family members, including spouses, children, and parents
All applications will be processed by the General Directorate of Residency Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, based on recommendations from the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA).
Key Requirements for Applicants
To ensure a smooth application process, candidates must meet specific criteria set by the authorities:
- Provide a clean criminal record certificate.
- Hold a passport that is valid for at least six months at the time of application.
- Ensure all submitted documents are genuine. Any false information or forged documents will lead to immediate rejection, visa cancellation, and potential legal action.
Investment and Capital Limits
To qualify for the residency scheme, investment companies must meet the following financial requirements:
- The investment entity must have a minimum investment volume of KD 5 million (approximately $16.3 million).
- The company must have a capital of at least KD 1 million, with proof that this capital has been deposited in a Kuwaiti bank.
Additionally, sponsoring companies must show a genuine operational presence in Kuwait. They must also follow local employment guidelines, which include hiring a specific quota of Kuwaiti nationals as set by KDIPA.
Fast Approvals and Easy Renewals
The Kuwaiti government is committed to making the application process quick and efficient. KDIPA aims to issue a decision within five working days of receiving a completed application.
Please note that if officials request extra information, applicants must respond within 30 days to avoid automatic rejection.
To maintain their status, investors must apply for a renewal at least 60 days before their permit expires. They will need to show that their business continues to meet all financial, legal, and operational rules.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.