Kuwait changes rules for foreigners: visas and residence permits under strict control

The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Kuwait has approved a new executive regulation to the law on the stay of foreigners. The document details the conditions for obtaining all types of visas, residence permits, as well as visits, including the sizes of fees and strict registration procedures. Special attention is given to family visas—now foreign residents are required to have an income of at least 800 Kuwaiti dinars per month, except for nine "key" professions, including lawyers, medical professionals, teachers, engineers, and media workers.

The extension of the family visa will now cost 20 KD for spouses and children and 300 KD for other relatives, however, the Director General of the Main Directorate for Residence Affairs may make exceptions for children up to five years old, born in Kuwait or abroad to residing parents, as well as for residents with an established life in the country. The law is aimed at balance: it supports family reunification, but at the same time ensures that foreign nationals meet minimum financial standards, while taking into account the unique contributions of specialists whose work is vital for the country.