Kuwait Resume Issuing Family, Tourist, and Business Visit Visas Starting February 7

Under the directive of Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, Kuwait has announced the reopening of visit visas for various purposes, aiming to invigorate commercial, economic, and tourism activities in the country.

These measures come in the wake of efforts to address social considerations while promoting growth and development.

1. Family Visit Visa

Eligibility: Available for fathers, mothers, spouses, and children, provided the breadwinner’s salary meets specified criteria.

Requirements: Applicants must fulfil certain conditions, including providing round-trip tickets on national carrier airlines, a commitment not to seek residency conversion, adherence to the visit duration, and seeking medical treatment only at private healthcare facilities.

• Open to spouses, children, parents, and some relatives of Kuwaiti citizens or residents.
• Minimum salary requirement:
  • 400 Kuwaiti dinars for immediate family (spouse, children, parents)
  • 800 Kuwaiti dinars for extended family (other relatives)

Conditions for the Kuwait Visit Visas;

• A round-trip ticket on a national airline
• Written commitment not to seek residency
• Respect for visit duration
• Private healthcare utilization only
• Penalties for exceeding visa duration

Consequences of Violation: Failure to comply with the prescribed stay period results in the inclusion of both the visitor and sponsor in the General Directorate of Residency Affairs Investigation, with legal procedures by the Foreigners’ Residence Law.

Also Read: Kuwait Family Visas Back, But 65% Rejected on Day 1: New Rules Explained

2. Business Visit Visa

Issuance: Granted upon the request of a Kuwaiti company or institution to individuals possessing university or technical qualifications relevant to the company’s activities and nature of work.

• Sponsored by Kuwaiti companies/institutions.
• Holders must possess relevant university or technical qualifications aligned with the company’s activity.

3. Tourist Visit Visa

Eligibility: Extended to individuals from 53 countries, allowing direct issuance upon arrival or through the electronic visa system available on the Ministry of Interior website.

• Direct Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of 53 countries at entry points.
• E-Visa: Apply online through the Ministry of Interior website (http://moi.gov.kw).

GCC Residents: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council countries can obtain tourism visas based on specified professions outlined in Ministerial Resolution No. (2008/2030) and its amendments, facilitated through designated hotels and companies linked with the General Administration of Accommodation Affairs system.

Impact on Travel and Economy

This visa reinstatement marks a significant step towards boosting Kuwait’s travel and tourism industry. It is expected to attract business travellers, family visitors, and tourists, generating potential revenue for sectors like airlines, hotels, and retail. Additionally, attracting skilled professionals through business visas can benefit the local economy.

Stay Informed

Travelers interested in visiting Kuwait are advised to visit the official Ministry of Interior website for the latest information on visa eligibility, application procedures, and specific requirements for each category. This announcement highlights Kuwait’s efforts to revive its tourism sector and foster international connections.