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Kuwait Introduces New Multiple-Trip Exit Permit to Simplify Travel

January 31, 2026 3:38 pm

Kuwait Introduces New Multiple-Trip Exit Permit to Simplify Travel

Kuwait has taken a significant step to simplify travel for foreign workers. The country now offers a multiple-trip exit permit, allowing workers to leave and re-enter without applying for a new permit each time. This change streamlines travel, making life easier for those living and working in Kuwait.

Understanding the Exit Permit

An exit permit is official authorization that enables a foreign worker to exit Kuwait legally. Kuwait mandates these permits to keep employers informed about their employees’ travel plans while managing residency and labor records. Without this permit, foreign workers cannot leave the country, even if they possess a valid residency permit.

Importance of Exit Permits

Kuwait’s exit permit system is crucial for controlling immigration and employment. The permits help authorities:

Track foreign worker movements
Prevent residency violations
Ensure workers return within their designated residency periods

Additionally, these permits create transparency and protect employers by securely managing travel records.

Consequences of Traveling Without an Exit Permit

Attempting to exit Kuwait without a valid exit permit can lead to serious complications. Travelers may experience:

Being stopped at the airport or border
Fines and delays
Potential legal issues with their residency status
Difficulty re-entering Kuwait later
Even valid residency does not guarantee smooth travel without an exit permit.

The Multiple-Trip Exit Permit Explained

The newly introduced multiple-trip exit permit allows foreign workers to leave and re-enter Kuwait multiple times within a specified validity period. Previously, each trip required a separate single-trip exit permit, leading to excess paperwork and waiting for approvals. Now, one permit suffices for multiple trips.

Key Advantages of the Multiple-Trip Permit

This new system brings several valuable benefits:

Reduced paperwork: No need for a new application before every journey.
Faster travel planning: Workers can book flights without waiting for approvals.
Convenience for frequent travelers: This permit is beneficial for business trips, family visits, or emergencies.
Less stress for everyone: Fewer applications result in fewer delays and errors, creating a smoother process overall.

How to Apply for the Exit Permit

Both employers and foreign workers can apply for the exit permit digitally through:

The Ashal portal
The Sahel mobile application

This online process minimizes the need for in-person visits to government offices, making it quicker and more efficient.

Impact on Foreign Workers

This new rule signifies a shift towards easier travel for expatriates in Kuwait. The multiple-trip exit permit saves time and hassle, streamlining the travel process. While it does not eliminate the exit permit requirement, it certainly makes the system more user-friendly. For workers traveling frequently, this is an important development to understand and utilize.

Conclusion

Kuwait’s introduction of the multiple-trip exit permit marks a positive change for foreign workers. It simplifies travel, reduces administrative hurdles, and enhances the overall experience for expatriates in the country. If you frequently travel while working in Kuwait, this new regulation offers significant advantages that can enhance your travel experience. Stay informed and take advantage of this new opportunity!