EU Ambassador for Kuwait to Prioritize Visa Facilitation in 2025

In a recent statement made to local Kuwait media, Anne Koistinen, the EU ambassador for Kuwait confirmed that one of her top priorities for the coming months will be facilitating a more straightforward travel scheme for Kuwait citizens who wish to travel to countries within the Schengen zone.

Currently, Kuwait passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa to enter any of the Schengen countries for up to 90 days. However, the process of obtaining this visa can be lengthy, with some travel agents recommending applying for the visa at least 6 months before travel, putting Kuwait travelers off the idea of visiting Europe for tourism or business altogether. 

Ambassador Koistinen hopes that a visa-free travel arrangement can be made with the EU to make travel to EU countries hassle-free for Kuwait citizens.

This news follows a statement made in September 2024 by the Foreign Minister of Kuwait, Abdullah Al-Yahya, confirming ongoing talks with representatives of the EU regarding EU-Kuwait relations and travel agreements.

Ambassador Koistinen emphasizes the relations between Kuwait and the EU, telling news reporters that “Our message to the Kuwaiti leadership and government is very clear: you can count on the European Union.”