Kuwait Eases Visa Rules for GCC Expats
Kuwait Eases Tourist Visa Rules for GCC Residents
KUWAIT CITY – Kuwait has announced a major change to its tourist visa policy, allowing easier entry for millions of foreign residents across the Gulf.
According to a decision published in the official gazette, Kuwait Al-Youm on Sunday, the new rules take effect immediately. Tourist visas will now be valid for 90 days, and applicants must hold a residency permit from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, or Bahrain that is valid for at least six months.
This policy replaces a 2008 regulation that limited visa-on-arrival eligibility to certain professions such as doctors, engineers, and executives. The change opens the door for an estimated 25 million expatriates living in the GCC to visit Kuwait with fewer restrictions.
Nationals from many European, North American, Latin American, and major Asian countries — including China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore — have already enjoyed similar visa privileges for years.
Over the past year and a half, Kuwait has steadily relaxed its visa rules to boost tourism and business. Measures have included easing family visa restrictions, allowing hotels to sponsor guests, and streamlining procedures for companies to invite foreign business partners.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) welcomed the move, noting that it comes alongside fresh job openings for Pakistani workers in Kuwait. The country’s labor market is seeking skilled professionals from Pakistan, encouraged by Kuwait’s pro-business policies and strong demand for its workforce in global markets.
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