Over 100,000 exit permits issued for expat workers
More than 100,000 exit permits have been issued to expatriate workers in Kuwait’s private sector through the Ash’hal platform and the Sahel app, following the implementation of Circular No. 2 of 2025 issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, which came into effect at the beginning of July.
The new regulation requires expat workers to obtain employer approval before leaving the country. Sources at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) expect the number of permits to double in the coming days due to the summer travel season.
The following are the key highlights:
- Automated integration with the General Administration of Ports has been completed, allowing smoother exit procedures.
- Workers are advised to print the exit permit in hard copy, as airlines may request it at check-in.
- In case of employer refusal or delay, workers may file complaints with PAM’s labor relations units, which handle such cases swiftly.
There is no limit to the number of exit permits an employee may request annually, as long as employer approval is granted.
Workers should apply for permits early, especially in emergencies, and may use the Sahel Individuals app to request permission and show it at exit ports.
Employers can use the Sahel Business app to approve exit requests electronically.
The initiative aims to balance national security and labor rights, ensuring efficient processing of departures while maintaining oversight through employer consent.
