Kuwait has rolled out a new suite of digital immigration services designed to simplify visa issuance, residency renewals, and work permit transfers for foreign nationals. Introduced by the Ministry of Interior, the reforms allow most private-sector expatriates under Article 18 to complete key residency procedures entirely online, significantly reducing paperwork and the need for in-person visits to immigration offices.
The digital platform enables the issuance, renewal, and transfer of work-related residency permits through the Ministry of Interior’s portal, developed in coordination with the General Department of Residency. The reforms are part of Kuwait’s broader immigration modernisation strategy aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and regulatory compliance for both workers and employers.
As part of the updated framework, Kuwait has introduced long-term residency permits of up to 15 years for eligible categories, including investors, providing greater stability and encouraging long-term economic participation. Entry and visit visa fees have also been standardised at KD 10 per month, offering clearer and more predictable immigration costs.
Health insurance has become mandatory for all residency permit holders and is now a core requirement for obtaining and maintaining legal residency. Authorities say the new measures will help streamline employment transitions, reduce administrative delays, and create a more expatriate- and investor-friendly environment.
The reforms are expected to particularly benefit large expatriate communities, including Indian professionals, by offering faster processing, clearer rules, and improved access to residency-related services, while aligning Kuwait’s immigration system with modern digital governance standards.
