Ordinary residency permits may be granted for up to five years for most foreigners
Kuwait introduces tiered residency durations for foreigners, investors eligible for 15-year permits
- These measures aim to streamline residency procedures, promote investment, and provide long-term stability for foreign residents contributing to Kuwait’s economy and society.
The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, has issued Article 7 of the Executive Regulations of the Law on the Residence of Foreigners, specifying the duration of residency permits according to different categories of foreign residents.
Under the new regulations, ordinary residency permits may be granted for up to five years for most foreigners. Certain groups, however, are eligible for ten-year permits, including children of Kuwaiti citizens, foreign property owners in Kuwait, and other categories as determined by the Minister of Interior, reports Al-Rai daily.
Foreign investors who meet the criteria outlined by the Council of Ministers under Law No. 116 of 2013 may receive residency permits for up to fifteen years, reflecting Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to attract and retain foreign investment.
The regulations also allow for the renewal of residency permits upon application. Additionally, obtaining, renewing, or transferring an ordinary residency permit to a different employer or sponsor requires proof of registration in the Ministry of Health’s health insurance system.
The validity of the residency permit cannot exceed the duration of the health insurance coverage.
These measures aim to streamline residency procedures, promote investment, and provide long-term stability for foreign residents contributing to Kuwait’s economy and society.
