Kuwait Approves New Residency Law with Stricter Penalties

Kuwait's Cabinet approved a new draft residency law during its weekly meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah. This new law aims to modernize the country's 60-year-old residency regulations with more stringent measures for violators, a crackdown on residency trading, and stricter rules for expats’ residency compliance.

Pending Approval from the Amir

Although approved by the Cabinet, the law will only come into effect once His Highness the Amir issues it in a decree, which is expected to happen soon.

Key Changes in Residency Rules and Penalties

The updated residency law outlines clear rules for expats entering and residing in Kuwait. It includes seven chapters that cover procedures for entry, deportation, and penalties for violations. One major aspect of the new legislation is its ban on “trading in residencies,” which prohibits charging or accepting payment for entry visas or work permit renewals.

The law also restricts employers from forcing expats into roles not specified in their work permits or allowing them to work elsewhere without authorization from the Interior Ministry. Employers are also barred from withholding wages or allowing employees to work in jobs outside their permits.

Crackdown on Illegal Employment and Residency

New provisions make it illegal for expats to work outside of their authorized employment or without proper permits from authorities. Additionally, the law bans housing, employing, or renting to illegal expats, regardless of their residency status. Employers are required to inform the Interior Ministry if an expat’s visa or residency has expired and they have not left the country.

The law aims to tighten control over expat residency to ensure compliance and uphold legal standards in Kuwait. Further details on specific penalties have yet to be released by the Cabinet.