Kuwait has recently updated and clarified the rules for its electronic visa (e-visa) system. This new update now allows more expatriates who live in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to apply for a Kuwait e-visa. The main goal of this change is to make the visa process easier and faster while still keeping strong security and following immigration laws.
New Rules for GCC Residents Applying for a Kuwait E-Visa
Now, expatriates living in any of the GCC member countries—like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman—can apply for a Kuwait e-visa, but only if they meet certain conditions. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- You must have a valid residency in a GCC country that is more than six months old.
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you plan to enter Kuwait.
- You must work in an approved profession. Some of the accepted professions include:
- Doctors
- Engineers
- Lawyers
- Teachers
- Journalists
- Business Managers
- You should not have any criminal record.
This update makes it easier for skilled professionals in the GCC to travel to Kuwait for work or tourism purposes. However, people who do not meet these conditions will still need to apply for a visa through other channels.
Nationalities That Cannot Use the E-Visa System
Kuwait has also clearly listed certain nationalities that are not allowed to use the e-visa service. People from the following countries are currently not eligible for the Kuwait e-visa:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Iraq
- Pakistan
- Yemen
If you are a citizen of one of these countries and live in a GCC country, you must visit the nearest Kuwaiti embassy or consulate in person to apply for a visa. Online applications are not available for these nationalities.
Visa on Arrival for Citizens of 53 Countries
If you are a citizen of one of the 53 approved countries, you can get a visa upon arrival at Kuwait International Airport. Some of these countries include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- France
- Many other countries in Europe and Asia
When you arrive in Kuwait, you must have the following documents ready:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months
- A confirmed return ticket to your home country or next destination
- Proof of where you will be staying in Kuwait (such as a hotel booking or a home address)
This visa-on-arrival option is especially helpful for tourists and business travelers who are planning a short stay.
How to Apply for the Kuwait E-Visa
Applying for a Kuwait e-visa is simple and can be done entirely online. The process usually takes between 1 to 3 business days. To apply, you will need to upload or submit the following documents:
- A digital copy of your passport’s information page
- Proof that you have valid GCC residency
- A return flight ticket
- A recent passport-sized photo
- Details of where you will be staying in Kuwait
- Proof of your profession (if required)
Once your e-visa is approved, it will be sent to your email. You should print a copy and bring it with you when you travel to Kuwait, as immigration officers will ask to see it when you arrive.
E-Visa Validity and Allowed Stay Duration
- E-visa validity period: The e-visa is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued.
- Maximum stay: Once you enter Kuwait, you can stay for up to 90 days.
It is important to make sure that all your documents—like your passport and GCC residency—stay valid during your entire visit to Kuwait. Also, travelers must follow all Kuwaiti laws and rules during their stay to avoid legal issues or visa cancellations.
READ MORE: Kuwait Introduces Automated Academic Certificate Verification for Work Permits Visas
