Kuwait: Launch of Part-Time Work Permits

Kuwaiti authorities have launched a part-time work permit for foreign nationals which allows already employed permit holders resident in Kuwait to work for up to four hours per day with a second employer. Permit holders can only work in the private sector and must secure approval from their primary employer. Employers of the part-time applicants can submit applications on behalf of the foreign nationals through the Public Authority for Manpower’s As-hal online platform, with one-, three-, six- and 12-month options available (costing KWD 5, KWD 10, KWD 20, and KWD 30, respectively). This new permit type – which seeks to help alleviate current talent shortages in Kuwait’s labor market – will not affect foreign ­national construction workers, as these workers are not restricted from working additional hours for a separate employer. Similarly, Kuwaiti citizens can work part time without any restrictions.