Kuwait Launches New E-Visa Rules for Four Visa Categories

Kuwait has introduced a revamped electronic visa system that streamlines applications across four visa categories as part of efforts to make the country more accessible to travelers and professionals. The announcement was made through a presentation by Col Abdulaziz Al-Kandari, Director of Electronic Services at the Residency Affairs Department. 

Col Al-Kandari explained that the new system operates through the Kuwait Visa platform and applies to four visa types: tourist, family, commercial, and government. 

He stressed that applicants must not have any security restrictions or active travel bans. They are also required to follow the platform’s instructions closely and upload all necessary documents.

Tourist visas are now divided into four categories. The first applies to travelers meeting high safety indicators and holding strong passports with a passport valid for at least six months. 

The second category applies to skilled professionals residing in Gulf Cooperation Council countries or individuals who hold valid residency in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Schengen countries. These applicants must also have a passport valid for more than six months and provide proof of residency.

The third category, which is expected to launch soon, will open to applicants from other nationalities based on financial eligibility. These individuals must provide a valid bank statement, a confirmed hotel booking, and a credit card for insurance coverage that may be charged in case of violations but refunded upon exit.

The fourth category targets those attending local or international events. Requirements will vary depending on the event at the time of application.

Tourist visa entry options include single-entry visas for up to three months and valid for 30 days or multiple-entry visas lasting three months, six months, or one year, with each capped at 30 days for each entry.

In addition to tourist visas, Al-Kandari reviewed the updated family visa process. He said that applicants must show proof of family ties, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate. These documents must either be in Arabic or translated into Arabic by a certified translation office.

For business visas, applicants must be invited by a Kuwaiti institution or company. These may be granted as a single-entry for 30 days or as a multiple-entry for three months, six months, or a year, with visits limited to 30 days for each entry.

Government visas are issued for individuals invited by a government agency and follow similar formats. Entry options include single-entry visas for one, two, or three months, each allowing a 30-day stay, as well as multiple-entry visas valid for three months, six months, or a whole year, also allowing 30 days per visit.