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Kuwait Introduces New Residency Regulations: 6-Month Travel Limit on Expats

January 2, 2026 3:00 pm

Kuwait Introduces New Residency Regulations: 6-Month Travel Limit on Expats

Kuwait has introduced significant changes to its residency regulations for foreign residents. These updates aim to manage the expatriate population effectively and impact many workers and their families.

Key Changes in Residency Rules

Maximum Stay Outside Kuwait: Foreign residents can now remain outside Kuwait for only six consecutive months. Staying abroad longer will automatically cancel their residency status, even if their permit remains valid.
Exemptions to the Six-Month Rule: Certain groups are not subject to this six-month limit. Individuals who fall into these categories can travel without immediate consequences:
- Foreign investors
- Property owners
- Children of Kuwaiti women
Long-Term Residency Options: In tandem with tightening regulations, Kuwait offers longer residency options for specific groups. Eligible foreign investors can obtain a 15-year residency, while property owners and children of Kuwaiti women can secure a 10-year residency. Both options allow for extended travel outside the country.
New Regulations for Domestic Workers: Domestic workers now face stricter travel limits. They can only stay abroad for four months, and exceeding this period will result in immediate cancellation of their residency. To prevent cancellations, sponsors must apply for an official leave extension through the Sahel app or by visiting a Residency Affairs office. Additionally, domestic workers must be between the ages of 21 and 60.

Updates on Visa Fees and Residency Costs

Kuwait is adjusting its visa fees to establish a more uniform system. Here are the important changes:

Visit visas, including those for family, business, and tourism, now cost KD 10 per month.
Residency renewal (iqama) fees have been set at KD 20 per year.
Health insurance is now mandatory for residency validity; if the insurance expires, the residency becomes invalid.

Increased Fines for Overstaying

The penalties for overstaying in Kuwait have also risen:

KD 2 per day for the first month.
KD 4 per day thereafter.

Additionally, parents are required to register newborns within four months of birth to avoid a daily fine of KD 2 for missed deadlines.

A Transition to Digital Residency Services

Kuwait is moving toward a fully digital residency system. Residents can now apply for the issuance, renewal, or transfer of residency permits online. This shift aims to streamline processes, reduce paperwork, and eliminate middlemen.

Crackdown on Visa Trading

The government has intensified its efforts against visa trading. Selling sponsorships or charging workers for residency renewals is now illegal. Violators may face imprisonment and heavy fines, reflecting a commitment to protecting workers and ensuring a fair labor market.

Conclusion

Kuwait’s new residency rules introduce tighter regulations alongside clearer guidelines for expatriates. While the six-month limit poses risks for many expatriates, long-term options provide comfort for investors and specific groups. Staying informed about travel dates and residency requirements is crucial for anyone residing or working in Kuwait.