Kuwait Tightens Residency Rules for Expats With New Six-Month Limit Abroad

Ministry of Interior issues updated residency regulations with limited exemptions.

Publish date: Tuesday، 30 December 2025 Reading time: 1 min read

Kuwait Tightens Residency Rules for Expats With New Six-Month Limit Abroad

Kuwait has announced new residency regulations that prevent expatriate residents from remaining outside the country for more than six months, marking one of the most significant updates to residency rules in recent years.

The decision, issued under Ministerial Decision No. 2249 of 2025, is part of the Interior Ministry’s efforts to regulate the residency system and enhance compliance with legal requirements, according to local media reports.

The rule applies to all types of residency permits, with exemptions granted only to specific categories including children of Kuwaiti women, property owners, and foreign investors. The Ministry confirmed that the decision falls under the executive regulations of the residency law and aims to streamline residency management while safeguarding national administrative procedures.

Domestic workers receive different allowance

Separate conditions have been outlined for domestic workers. Under Article 20, domestic staff will be permitted to stay outside Kuwait for a maximum of four months, unless the sponsor submits a certified leave request through designated residency affairs departments or via the Sahel government application.

Authorities said the revised rules are structured to maintain oversight of residency holders while allowing flexibility for exceptional cases. The Interior Ministry noted that the changes are intended to regulate resident status effectively and ensure continuity within Kuwait’s administrative framework.

The new residency requirements are expected to impact thousands of expat families and employees, making travel planning and permit renewal compliance increasingly important.

To read the full story for free, please enter your e-mail

Thank you for your subscription, you will receive our Newsletter shortly

Kuwait Tightens Residency Rules for Expats With New Six-Month Limit Abroad

Domestic workers receive different allowance

Related articles