Kuwait Enforces Stricter Customs Rules at Airports, Deports Over 6,000 Foreigners
KUWAIT CITY – Kuwait has tightened its customs regulations for all passengers entering or leaving the country through Kuwait International Airport, with a strong focus on financial declarations and luxury item disclosures. The move is part of a broader strategy to combat money laundering and ensure greater transparency in the flow of people and assets across its borders.
The General Administration of Customs now requires travellers to declare any amount of cash or currency equal to or exceeding KWD 3,000 (approximately USD 9,700), regardless of the denomination. This includes both Kuwaiti Dinars and foreign currencies.
Mandatory Declarations for Travellers
In addition to cash, the updated regulations mandate that passengers declare:
Gold items, including bars, coins, and jewellery
Luxury goods, such as branded watches, electronics, and designer accessories
High-value personal items, with valid proof of ownership (e.g. purchase receipts)
Travellers must carry these items in their hand luggage, and all declarations must be submitted using official customs forms.
Required Documentation
Departing passengers must fill out a customs declaration form before leaving Kuwait.
Arriving travellers are required to submit a complete declaration form along with any related invoices or receipts upon arrival.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to follow Kuwait’s customs regulations may result in:
Seizure of undeclared goods
Legal penalties or financial fines
Possible detention by customs officials
Kuwait’s customs authorities urge all travellers to ensure their paperwork is in order ahead of travel to avoid delays or legal issues.
Mass Deportations Over Residency Violations
In a related development, Kuwait has deported approximately 6,300 foreign nationals over two months for violations of residency and labour laws, local media reported.
According to figures from the Ministry of Interior’s Deportation and Detention Department, these deportations occurred during May and June 2025, and reflect the country’s increasing efforts to regulate its expatriate population.
The enforcement campaign underlines Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to upholding immigration laws and maintaining national security.
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