A new chapter in Japan-Kuwait relations: mutual visa exemption for diplomatic and official passports

By Mukai Kenichiro
Ambassador of Japan to the State of Kuwait

Effective May 12, 2025, Japan and Kuwait will begin implementing a reciprocal visa exemption arrangement for holders of diplomatic, official, and special passports.

Under this agreement, Kuwaiti nationals with valid diplomatic or special passports issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be able to enter Japan visa-free for stays of up to 90 consecutive days. Likewise, Japanese holders of valid diplomatic or official passports will be granted visa-free entry into Kuwait.

This milestone reflects the enduring trust and friendship between our two countries and lays the groundwork for enhanced political, economic, and cultural cooperation.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties through Enhanced Mobility

The Japan–Kuwait relationship is deeply rooted in decades of cooperation, dating back to 1958 when a Japanese oil company first obtained drilling rights in Kuwait.
The newly introduced visa exemption will streamline travel for government officials, participants in international forums, and holders of special passports, facilitating more robust dialogue and official engagement.

This agreement is more than a procedural advancement—it is a symbolic reaffirmation of our shared commitment to a progressive and trust-based partnership.

Discover Japan at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

We warmly invite our Kuwaiti friends to experience the future firsthand at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, taking place from April 13 to October 13, 2025. More than a global exhibition, it is a collaborative platform for innovative solutions in sustainability, mobility, healthcare, and advanced technology.

Japan will showcase commercially viable technologies including:

• Room Temperature Hydrogen Production Devices
• CO₂ Adsorption and Desorption Systems
• Room Temperature Synthetic Fuel Production Technologies

These developments present potential investment opportunities for Kuwait’s energy sector, particularly in support of its vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
Visitors attending Expo 2025 will also be exempt from visa fees—a gesture of welcome to all who wish to join this forward-looking event.

A Call for Peace: Hiroshima and Nagasaki A-Bomb Poster Exhibition

As we look to the future, it is vital to reflect on the past. The Second Hiroshima and Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Poster Exhibition is currently being held at the Contemporary Art Platform (CAP Kuwait) from April 29 to May 25, 2025.

The opening ceremony on April 29 featured a moving testimony by Ms. HIRAOKA Sachiko, a family member of an atomic bomb survivor who traveled from Hiroshima to share her story. The event was attended by ambassadors, artists, students, and members of the public.

This exhibition features impactful posters depicting the horrors of the atomic bombings, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and nuclear disarmament. Admission is free and open to all.

Investing in People: Scholarships and Cultural Exchange

Education and culture are vital pillars of the Japan–Kuwait relationship. The MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) Scholarship Program for the 2026 academic year is now open for applications until June 12, 2025. We encourage Kuwaiti students to apply for the opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in Japan.

Additionally, submissions are now being accepted for the 18th Japan International MANGA Award until June 20, 2025. This prestigious global competition invites creators to share their stories through the unique and powerful medium of manga. We hope to see many talented Kuwaiti artists participate.

Conclusion: Towards a Shared Future

The launch of mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and official passports is a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between Japan and Kuwait. It opens the door to increased dialogue, deeper cultural exchange, and stronger people-to-people connections.

We look forward to welcoming more Kuwaiti friends to Japan and continuing our shared journey in friendship, peace, and innovation.

Welcome to Japan — welcome to the future.