Kuwait Strips Citizenship from 9 Residents Amid Crackdown on Fraud, Provides Free Healthcare

Kuwait has annulled the citizenship of nine residents, as detailed in Decree No. 130 of 2024, which was published in the official gazette, Al Kuwait Al Youm.

The decree specifically affects Fatima Zamel Ajil Awad and extends to individuals who acquired citizenship through her. Additionally, eight other residents have had their citizenship revoked under Cabinet Resolution No. 792 of 2024.

In response, the Ministry of Health has directed healthcare facilities to offer free treatment to these individuals, provided they present a valid identification card from the Central Agency for Illegal Residents.

This action is part of a broader initiative to manage and oversee the status of those affected by citizenship revocation.

Furthermore, Kuwait has introduced a new identification card for individuals whose citizenship has been revoked for various reasons, according to media sources.

The Central Agency has informed government bodies about this new card, which is valid for one year and serves solely as proof of identity.

The card indicates that the holder’s nationality was withdrawn by royal decree. There has been no immediate official comment on this matter.

Hotline

Kuwait, a nation of approximately 4.9 million people with a significant foreign population, has intensified efforts to combat citizenship fraud. Since March, the country has revoked citizenship from hundreds of individuals due to fraud or dual nationality.

The Kuwaiti Interior Ministry has established a hotline to report instances of citizenship obtained through forgery.

The General Directorate of Nationality and Travel Documents has called on the public to provide information about forged or dual citizenship cases via the hotline, ensuring confidentiality for all whistleblowers.

According to Kuwaiti naturalisation law, citizenship can be revoked if obtained through fraud, false statements, or if the holder is convicted of a dishonourable crime or breach of trust within the first 15 years of acquiring it.

Dual citizenship is also prohibited under Kuwaiti law.

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