Kuwait Announces Major Visa Rule Change for All Expats

Kuwait has introduced a major residency visa rule for expats in the country. 

Before their residency permits be renewed, expats must settle any debts owed to the government, the Ministry of Interior explained in a social media post. 

The new guidelines go into effect on Sunday, September 10th. 

The new residency rules are based on the directives of the Acting Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Talal Khalid Al-Ahmad Al Sabah. 

بناء على توجيهات رئيس مجلس الوزراء بالإنابة ووزير الداخلية بتفعيل عملية الربط بين الإدارة العامة لشؤون الإقامة والإدارة العامة لنظم المعلومات لتحصيل المديونيات المستحقة على الأجانب للدولة

الإعلام الأمني:
وزارة الداخلية تبدأ بتفعيل قرار تحصيل المديونيات المستحقة للدولة قبل تجديد… pic.twitter.com/RIVKViGQfi

— وزارة الداخلية (@Moi_kuw) September 9, 2023

Expats in Kuwait now have to pay their unpaid phone, electricity, water, and transportation fees before they leave the country for any reason due to recent travel restrictions. 

Expats who are currently residing in Kuwait will not be permitted to update or renew their residency credentials unless they have settled any outstanding debts.