Kuwait Resume Issuing Family Visa Under New Stricter Rules

After a brief pause, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced the resumption of processing family reunification visas for expatriates, effective January 28th, 2024.

This marks a significant shift in the country’s immigration policies, introducing stricter criteria aimed at refining the process and ensuring long-term well-being for families.

Kuwait New Rules for Family Reunions

The move, authorized by Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah, outlines new family visa regulations detailed in Ministerial Decree No. (56 of 2024). These directives establish higher eligibility standards:

Minimum Salary Threshold

The minimum salary requirement for sponsoring dependents has been increased to 800 Kuwaiti dinars (approximately USD 2,640), reflecting the current cost of living and ensuring financial stability for sponsored families.

Educational Qualifications

Applicants for dependent visas must now hold a university degree. This requirement ensures a skilled and qualified workforce contributing to Kuwait’s development.

Field Alignment

Additionally, the applicant’s occupational field must be relevant to their academic qualifications. This alignment aims to improve skills utilization and contribute to a more efficient labour market.

Enhancing Visa Issuance Efficiency

The adjustments to the dependent visa procedures signify a concerted effort by the Ministry of Interior to enhance efficiency and transparency in the visa application process.

By imposing stricter eligibility criteria, authorities seek to mitigate potential abuse of the system while prioritizing applicants who demonstrate the requisite qualifications and financial stability to support their families.

The Ministry of Interior, acting by Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef’s guidelines, emphasizes that these revisions address the evolving needs of Kuwait’s growing population and diverse workforce.

Key Takeaways

• Family reunification visa processing resumes in Kuwait on January 28th, 2024.
• New eligibility criteria include a minimum salary of 800 KD, a university degree, and field alignment for professions.
• The revised system aims for transparency, efficiency, and positive integration of expatriate families.
• This marks a significant step towards a refined and future-oriented immigration policy in Kuwait.

Applicants are advised to consult the Ministry of Interior’s website for detailed information and updated application procedures.

Conclusion

These changes represent a significant step forward in ensuring a well-regulated and efficient dependent visa system in Kuwait, balancing family cohesion with economic and workforce considerations.