Kuwait Extends Temporary Residency for One Year

Kuwait has implemented major changes to its residency laws, which will impact both temporary and regular residency permits. The new regulations aim to streamline the process while introducing tougher penalties for violations, including illegal residency trades and other offenses.

Key Changes to Residency Laws

Under the revamped system, a foreigner’s temporary stay in Kuwait can now last for three months, with the possibility of extending it for up to one year. This new rule provides greater flexibility for expats in Kuwait, allowing for longer stays as long as the residency conditions are met.

For regular residency, the rules are as follows:

• A standard residency can be granted for up to five years.
• Children of Kuwaiti women and property owners are eligible for a 10-year residency.
• Investors can apply for a 15-year residency, providing long-term stability for those contributing to Kuwait’s economy.

Tougher Penalties for Violations

Kuwait is also introducing strict penalties for those who violate residency rules. Individuals who break the laws regarding temporary or regular residency may face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to KD 1,200 (approximately $3,900). Meanwhile, violating the visit residency rules could lead to a fine of up to KD 2,000 and the same prison sentence.

One of the most significant changes is the crackdown on illegal trading of residency permits. Under the new law, those caught involved in the illegal trade of iqamas could face up to five years in prison and hefty fines reaching up to KD 10,000. If a government employee is found guilty of this offense, the penalty is doubled if the crime was committed within the scope of their duties.

Domestic Worker Regulations

Domestic workers are also subject to new rules. They cannot remain outside of Kuwait for more than four months without obtaining permission from the Interior Ministry. Failure to do so will result in the revocation of their residency.

Penalties for Other Offenses

Kuwait has also introduced stringent penalties for illegal entry into the country, with offenders facing up to three years in prison and a fine of KD 3,000. Employers who hire foreign workers without proper documentation or fail to pay their wages could be fined up to KD 10,000 and face two years in prison.

In addition, managers of hotels and furnished apartments are now required to notify the Interior Ministry of any foreign guests' stays and departures within 24 hours. Expatriate residents are also obligated to present their passports or equivalent documents upon request and must report any loss or damage within two weeks, or face a fine of KD 2,000.

Crackdown on Illegal Activities

The government has made it clear that it will continue its crackdown on illegal activities related to residency. This includes trafficking in iqamas, with authorities rounding up thousands of illegal workers in recent months.

What’s Next?

While the new law has already been approved by the Kuwaiti government, it has not yet been signed into law by Emir Meshal Al Ahmad. The exact date for the law’s enactment remains uncertain. However, this overhaul reflects Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to regulate residency and enforce stricter penalties against violators, in a move to ensure greater accountability and transparency.

As Kuwait continues to enforce these changes, residents and businesses will need to stay informed about the new regulations to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.