In a significant policy overhaul impacting its vast expatriate community, Kuwait has implemented new residency regulations that introduce a strict cap on how long foreign residents can stay outside the country. The changes, part of a broader push to reform population management, also create new long-term visa options aimed at retaining skilled investors and specific groups.
Core Rule: The Six-Month Limit and Key Exemptions
The cornerstone of the new rules, enacted under Ministerial Resolution No. 2249 of 2025, states that expatriates holding valid residence permits cannot remain outside Kuwait for more than six consecutive months. Failure to return within this period risks automatic cancellation of their residency status. This rule applies broadly across most residency categories.
However, the government has outlined important exemptions to this six-month travel limit. Foreign investors, property owners, and children of Kuwaiti women are not bound by this restriction. Their ability to stay abroad for longer periods without jeopardizing their residency remains intact, recognizing their long-term contribution and ties to the nation.
New Long-Term Visas and Stricter Rules for Domestic Workers
Alongside restrictions, Kuwait has launched a tiered system of 'Golden' residency to attract and retain valuable foreign residents. Foreign investors who meet the criteria of the Foreign Direct Investment Law can now obtain a 15-year residency permit. Meanwhile, property owners and children of Kuwaiti women are eligible for a 10-year residency. These long-term categories enjoy greater travel flexibility and are exempt from the six-month abroad rule.
In contrast, the regulations impose tighter controls on domestic workers (holders of Article 20 residency). They are now permitted to stay outside Kuwait for a maximum of only four months. Exceeding this limit leads to immediate cancellation of their residency. To prevent this, sponsors can apply for an official 'leave of absence' via the Sahel application or by visiting a Residency Affairs Department before the four-month deadline. The law also now mandates that foreign domestic workers must be aged between 21 and 60 years.
Updated Fees, Penalties, and a Digital Shift
The new framework also brings updated costs and stricter compliance measures. Most visit visas, including for family, tourism, and business, now carry a flat fee of KD 10 per month. The annual residency (iqama) renewal fee has been standardized at KD 20. Crucially, maintaining valid health insurance is now a mandatory prerequisite, and a permit's validity is directly linked to the insurance coverage period.
To discourage overstaying, the Ministry of Interior has reinforced penalties. Overstayers will face a fine of KD 2 per day for the first month, which increases to KD 4 per day thereafter. Furthermore, parents must register a newborn's birth within four months, or incur a daily fine of KD 2, underscoring a drive for accurate demographic data.
Spearheaded by Brigadier Mazid Al-Mutairi, the Ministry is accelerating a move towards a 'paperless' immigration system. New electronic services allow for the online issuance, renewal, and transfer of Article 18 (private sector) residency permits, aiming to reduce bureaucracy.
Finally, the law takes a hard stance against illegal visa trading. It is now strictly illegal to sell sponsorships or charge expatriates for residency renewals. Violators face severe consequences, including up to one year in prison and substantial fines, as Kuwait seeks to clean up the labor market and protect workers' rights.
