Kuwait: Relaxed Immigration Law Forthcoming

The government of Kuwait finalized a new law that will relax the country’s immigration policy and is expected to be approved in the coming months. The new law will apply to almost all categories of foreign nationals, including domestic workers, with the exception of members of diplomatic missions or other members of government or ruling families. The law will introduce a renewable residence permit issued for up to five years, except for foreign children of Kuwaiti women and real estate owners (issued for up to 10 years) and investors (issued for up to 15 years). Additionally, foreign nationals in a visitor status will be permitted to stay in Kuwait for up to three months, extendable for up to one year. Furthermore, Kuwaiti women married to a foreign national will be able to sponsor a residence permit for their husband and children, which is not currently allowed. Domestic workers will be issued a residence permit equal to the duration of their employment contract and will be allowed to change sponsorship in Kuwait, which is also not currently allowed. Furthermore, the law includes a provision stating that foreign nationals, including dependents, can be deported due to reasons related to public interest, general security public morality or lack of a legal source of income. We will issue a further client alert once the law comes into effect.