Kuwait eases residency rules: 5 key cases for converting visit visas

The Kuwaiti authorities have clarified the circumstances under which a visit visa may be converted into a regular residence permit, according to Article 16 of the residency regulations.

The measure aims to facilitate legal residency for certain categories of visitors while ensuring compliance with the country’s immigration policies, reports Al-Rai daily.

The five cases in which a visit visa can be converted include:

Government Visitors — Individuals who arrive on a government visit visa to work with state ministries, public bodies, or public institutions may convert their visa, provided they hold a university degree or possess technical qualifications. Approval must be granted by the Director-General of the General Administration of Residence Affairs.

Domestic Workers — Domestic workers and those in similar employment categories are eligible to convert their visit visas into residence permits.

Family or Tourist Visits — Individuals who arrived on a family visit or tourist visa may obtain residency to join family members legally residing in Kuwait.

Work Entry Visa Holders Abroad — People who entered Kuwait under a work entry visa and started the residency process but had to leave the country temporarily for no more than one month may convert their visa upon return.

Additional cases may be considered at the discretion of the Director General of the General Administration of Residence Affairs.

This move is expected to streamline residency procedures for eligible visitors, ensuring smoother integration into Kuwait’s workforce and society.