Kuwait has made an update to its residency and family visa policies, with changes that will impact expats living in the country. The new regulations are aimed at making it simpler for expats to bring their family members to Kuwait and ease the process for professionals traveling to the country.
One of the major changes is that expats can now apply for family visas valid for up to one year. This policy includes multiple entry options and various timeframes:
- Single entry visa with the duration of 1, 2, or 3 months
- Multiple entry with the duration of up to 1 year
It should be noted that no single stay can exceed one month.
In addition to family visas, Kuwait has simplified the process for professionals from GCC countries to obtain tourist visas, either online or on arrival. Eligible professions include:
- Company executives
- Diplomats
- Lawyers
- Doctors
- Engineers
- Teachers
- Journalists
- Pilots
A full list of eligible professions can be found on the Kuwaitvisa platform. This move makes it more convenient for a wide range of professionals to visit Kuwait.
One of the key changes to the family visa process is the removal of the minimum salary requirement for expats wishing to sponsor their family members. Previously, expats had to meet a certain income level to bring their relatives to Kuwait. With the new rule, any legal resident can apply to bring family members, regardless of their salary.
Kuwait also launched a new e-visa platform in July 2025, making it easier for tourists, family members, and business visitors to apply for visas online. Additionally, under the new regulation, residents of GCC countries traveling to Kuwait can now take advantage of visa-on-arrival.
