Kuwait Increases Fines for Residency Law Violations in 2025
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The new fine structure targets overstays, work visa violations, and unregistered newborns
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Kuwait is set to roll out a new fine structure for residency law violations, starting January 5, 2025. The revised penalties aim to enforce stricter compliance among expatriates and visitors. The new rules introduce significantly higher fines for violations such as overstaying visas, not registering newborns, and work visa issues.
Key Changes in the Fine System
Under the updated rules, penalties for various violations will be as follows:
Newborn Registration
Parents who fail to register their newborns within a four-month grace period will face fines starting at 2 dinars (around Dh24) for the first month of delay, increasing to 4 dinars per month thereafter. The maximum fine for this violation is capped at 2,000 dinars.
Work Visa Violations
Individuals who violate work visa regulations will incur fines starting at 2 dinars per day for the first month, rising to 4 dinars per day after that. The total fine can go up to 1,200 dinars.
Overstaying Visit Visas
Visitors who overstay their visas will be fined 10 dinars per day, with a maximum penalty of 2,000 dinars.
Domestic Workers Violations
Domestic workers who violate residency rules will face fines of 2 dinars per day, up to 600 dinars in total.
Additional Violations and Maximum Fines
Other violations, such as failure to renew temporary residency or overstaying temporary residency, will also result in hefty fines. For residency cancellations under Articles 17, 18, and 20, individuals will face fines of 2 dinars per day for the first month and 4 dinars per day thereafter, with a maximum fine of 1,200 dinars.
Upgraded Systems to Enforce New Rules
To ensure the effective implementation of the new fine structure, the Ministry of Interior has upgraded its computer systems. The updated systems will track violations and apply the revised penalties accurately. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to check their legal status to avoid the steep penalties.