Kuwait Modernizes Residency Laws to Protect Migrant Workers and Combat Visa Trading

Kuwait has enacted a sweeping reform of its residency system, introducing a new foreign residency law that replaces a system in place for over 60 years. Issued via Amiri decree on November 28, the law aims to modernize immigration policies and address critical issues such as visa trading and the protection of migrant workers.

Key Provisions of the New Law

• 10-Year Residency for Children of Kuwaiti Women
  Children of Kuwaiti women can now obtain a renewable 10-year residency without fees, provided they do not acquire Kuwaiti citizenship. These residents will not lose their status, even if they remain outside the country for more than six months for medical or educational purposes.

• Crackdown on Visa Trading
  The law introduces strict penalties for individuals involved in visa trading or facilitating illegal residency in exchange for money. Employers are explicitly prohibited from hiring expatriates for purposes other than those specified in their original recruitment and must ensure workers are not employed by unauthorized parties.

• Enhanced Family Visas and Domestic Worker Rules

  • Family visit visas have been extended to three months, with fees to be determined by the Ministry of Interior.

  • The waiting period to bring in new domestic workers has been reduced from six months to four months after the departure of the previous worker.

• Stronger Measures Against Exploitation
  To align with international standards, the law strengthens measures against human trafficking and worker exploitation. Penalties for violations include fines and imprisonment, with harsher penalties for public employees found complicit in illegal activities.

Focus on Digital Transformation

The new residency law also includes provisions for digital transformation, introducing updates to the Kuwait Visa website to streamline residency applications and enhance efficiency.

Commitment to Fair Treatment

Major General Ali Al Adwani, Assistant Undersecretary for Residency and Citizenship Affairs, highlighted the government’s focus on transparency and accountability while ensuring fair treatment for all residents.

Set to take effect within six months, the new law represents a significant step in Kuwait’s efforts to modernize its residency system and align with global best practices.

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