Kuwait: Resumption of Work Permit Transfer and Renewal Processing for Foreign Nationals Over 60

Effective immediately, the Public Authority for Manpower has resumed processing work permit transfers and renewals for the following foreign nationals over the age of 60: Kuwaiti residents who hold a secondary school diploma or less and who work in the government sector or for state-owned agencies and departments; individuals on dependent visas; investors or partners in commercial or industrial activity; and foreign nationals with self-sponsored residency. However, these individuals must be covered by comprehensive medical insurance, the cost of which will not be reimbursed if the residence permit is canceled prior to expiration. The individual will also need to pay insurance fees annually estimated at KWD 503.5 (USD 1,660) in addition to the mandatory governmental medical insurance of KWD 50 (USD 163) (subject to some exemptions). The decision comes after a 2020 ruling in which officials implemented a complete ban on work permit renewals or transfers for those who are over 60 years old and hold only a secondary school certificate or lesser education.