Kuwait’s Residency Law Bans Amnesty Violators from Re-Entry
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Expats who missed last year’s grace period face deportation and no return under new rules.
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Expatriates in Kuwait who failed to meet the June 2023 amnesty deadline are excluded from the country’s new residency law, which came into effect this month. The amnesty had allowed illegal residents to either legalize their status or leave without penalties. Violators who missed the deadline must now leave Kuwait permanently, with no option to re-enter.
Tougher Penalties for Violators
The new residency law, effective January 5, applies stricter measures to violators. Those who ignored the amnesty must return to their home countries, while others who complied during the grace period can re-enter Kuwait. Authorities have launched intensified campaigns against illegal residents, detaining thousands who failed to adjust their status.
Key Changes in Residency Rules
The updated law outlines specific residency terms:
- Regular residency permits: Up to 5 years.
- Residency for property owners: Up to 10 years.
- Residency for investors: Up to 15 years.
- Temporary stays: Maximum of 3 months, extendable up to 1 year.
- Visit visas: Limited to 3 months.
Addressing Demographic Imbalance
Kuwait, with a population of 4.9 million—mostly expatriates—is taking steps to regulate its labor market and address demographic challenges. The new residency regulations aim to streamline compliance and improve population management.