Moving Services in Kuwait

It is not really possible or legal to move to Kuwait on a permanent basis from another country, or to become a Kuwaiti citizen, except perhaps through marriage to a Kuwaiti. Non Kuwaitis are also barred from owning property in Kuwait. Residents of other Gulf States can enter without a visa, but all other foreigners need to get a visa before entering Kuwait. This requires a sponsor, which can be a Kuwaiti hotel for those visiting on holiday.

 

There are three month visitor visas which cost around US $45, and six month visitor visas costing about US $72. Those coming to work in Kuwait need to be sponsored by their employer in Kuwait who has already offered them a job, in order for them to qualify for a residence visa. Prospective visa recipients also have to pass a medical examination, including a test for HIV.

 

It is possible for candidates to apply for the residence visa while already in Kuwait on a visitor visa, and the hiring sponsor will take care of most of the other details. The Civil ID card that comes with approval of residence status must be carried by the recipient at all times, as the Kuwaiti government keeps track of its large foreign working population.

See our guides

• Moving to Kuwait