Kuwait: Suspension of Issuance of New Entry and Work Visas and Invalidation of Unused Visas for Nationals of the Philippines

The government of Kuwait announced the suspension of the issuance of new work and entry visas (including family visas and commercial visit visas) for nationals of the Philippines. Further, the visas of Filipino nationals who have not yet used them to enter Kuwait will also be canceled. The only exception applies to Filipino nationals who hold a valid residence permit to freely enter and leave Kuwait, evidenced by their Kuwaiti civil identification card. Companies will need to revisit the hiring process of Filipino nationals going forward to avoid any disruption in employment as it is unclear how long the suspension will be in place. Further information is expected to be forthcoming.