Kuwait Tightens Permanent Residency Rules
Kuwait has introduced significant changes to its permanent residency regulations, resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of applications from foreign nationals. The new rules also impose stricter financial eligibility requirements for applicants seeking long-term residence.
Kuwait Tightens Permanent Residency Rules
Kuwait has amended its permanent residency regulations, introducing stricter eligibility criteria for foreign nationals seeking long-term residence in the Gulf country.
Previously, visitors with clean criminal records could apply for permanent residency after entering Kuwait on visit visas. However, following amendments to Articles 17, 18, 20, and 22 of the country’s residency framework, many of those applications have been rejected.
Under the revised regulations, applicants must demonstrate that they have at least 800 Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) in disposable monthly income after covering residency conversion fees, health insurance, and living expenses.
Foreign nationals granted permanent residency will be allowed to sponsor their spouse, sons under the age of 18, and daughters under the age of 21 for permanent residence.
Applicants who do not qualify for permanent residency may still bring their family members to Kuwait on temporary visas. However, those family members must leave the country once their visas expire.
The Kuwaiti Dinar remains one of the world’s strongest currencies, with 1 KWD valued at more than US$3.25, making it one of the highest-valued currencies globally.
