Kuwait Allows Expat Workers to Amend Qualifications and Professions
PAM move aims to improve labor market efficiency, align qualifications with job functions, and enhance workforce data accuracy.
The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has introduced new measures allowing expatriate workers to amend their registered educational qualifications or professions when they correspond with the actual nature of their work.
The move follows Ministerial Circular No. 1 of 2026, issued by First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Chairman of PAM, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, as part of ongoing efforts to develop Kuwait’s labor market, improve efficiency, and enhance transparency and flexibility in meeting the needs of employers across various sectors.
According to PAM sources, the circular permits amendments to an expatriate worker’s educational qualification or profession, provided that the qualification, profession, and actual work performed are proven to be compatible and meet approved procedures and regulations. The measure is expected to improve alignment between workers’ registered credentials and their job responsibilities.
Sources said the decision reflects PAM’s continued efforts, under the leadership of Director General Eng. Rabab Al-Osaimi, to regulate the labor market and ensure that professional classifications match the actual requirements of different economic sectors, while balancing employers’ needs with the protection of workers’ rights.
The circular also provides for the continued preparation of the Kuwaiti Unified Guide for Professional Description and Classification, a project aimed at standardizing job titles and improving the accuracy of occupational classifications. Officials said the initiative will enhance labor market data quality and support more informed policymaking and future workforce planning.
The new regulations came into effect on June 2, 2026.
