kuwait visit visa minimum salary 2022

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Entrance Visas:Family Visit Visa

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Kuwait Resumes Family Visa Applications: Minimum Salary Threshold and Qualifications Raised After Hiatus

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) recently announced the full resumption of family (dependent) visas for migrant residents, effective from 28 January 2024. However, residents seeking family visas are now required to earn a monthly salary of KD 800 (US$ 2,600) and possess a university certificate relevant to their work sector.

Previously , the minimum monthly salary threshold to obtain family visas, also known as, Article 22 visas, was set at KD 500 (US$ 1,625), and no university certificate was required. Those who work in the following professions remain exempt from the university degree requirement:

• Advisors, judges, prosecutors, experts, and legal researchers in the government sector
• Doctors and pharmacists
• Professors in universities, colleges, and higher institutes
• School principals, deputies, educational mentors, teachers, social workers and laboratory technicians in the government sector
• University financial and economic advisors
• Imams, preachers, muezzins in mosques, and memorizers of the Holy Qur’an
• Librarians in government agencies and private universities
• Ministry of Health employees, including nurses, paramedics those holding medical technical positions in various specializations, and those working in the field of social service
• Social workers and psychologists in the government sector
• Journalists, media professionals and correspondents
• Coaches and players in the federation and sports clubs
• Pilots and flight attendants
• Funeral undertakers

Families living or born in Kuwait, as well as children under the age of five, are exempt from meeting salary requirements when applying for a family visa. Except in special cases, only male residents are eligible to apply for family visas remains; i.e. only men may sponsor their wives and children, while women cannot.

Kuwaiti officials stated that “applications that violate the requirements will not be tolerated, indicating that the attestation of university certificates by the relevant authorities is a condition for their acceptance.”

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Kuwait suspended the issuance of family visas for migrants. The process was only gradually resumed in November 2022 , enabling resident parents to obtain family visas for their children under the age of five who were stranded abroad.

Residents on family visas constitute a large portion of the migrant population in Kuwait. According to Kuwait’s Central Bureau of Statistics (KCBS), in 2022, there were 520,654 residents under the family visa category, equivalent to nearly 18% of the total migrant population.

The recent decision is anticipated to impact numerous migrants in Kuwait who may no longer meet the new requirements, especially the stipulation of possessing a university degree. As per KCBS , as of mid-2021, only 13.2% of the total migrant population in Kuwait held an educational level of a university degree or higher. The average monthly wages of non-Kuwaitis in mid-2022 was KD 322 (US$ 1046).

The combination of meagre wages for the majority of migrant workers and the progressively stringent criteria set by Gulf states for family reunification has led to gender imbalances in Gulf societies, with men constituting the majority of the migrant population. In Kuwait, for example, nearly 70% of all migrants are male.  Despite ongoing restrictions on family unification, male migrants—often labelled as ‘bachelors’—are regularly targeted in dehumanizing campaigns by government officials.

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Kuwait Family Visit Visa: Detailed Guideline

• January 17, 2024

Making a journey to Kuwait for a family visit is an enriching experience, but navigating the visa application process can be a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and memorable stay. We crafted this detailed guideline on the Kuwait Family Visit Visa to offer clear insights and step-by-step instructions for individuals seeking to bring their loved ones to Kuwait . From understanding the eligibility criteria to navigating the application procedures, this comprehensive guide aims to demystify the complexities surrounding Kuwait family visit visas.

In this article, we will serve as a reliable companion, offering valuable information and guidance at every stage. Discovering the intricacies of the Kuwait Family Visit Visa involves comprehending eligibility requirements, gathering necessary documentation, and following a structured application process. Reuniting with family in Kuwait undoubtedly warms the heart, and our detailed guideline is tailored to ensure that the visa application journey becomes a seamless and stress-free experience. With a focus on clarity and simplicity, this guide empowers individuals with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the Family Visa Kuwait process with confidence.

Kuwait family visit visa news and update

Staying informed about the Kuwait family visit visa news today is crucial for individuals planning or in the process of bringing their loved ones to Kuwait. As of today, several noteworthy developments have taken place, impacting the visa application procedures and requirements.

Firstly, one notable update involves changes in Kuwait family visit visa requirements. Authorities have introduced modifications to certain documentation, emphasizing the need for applicants to stay abreast of these alterations. This includes updates related to financial proof, relationship verification, and health documentation.

Moreover, to enhance efficiency and streamline the application process, Kuwaiti authorities have introduced new application procedures. These may encompass online submission systems, appointment scheduling enhancements, or additional digital platforms. It helps to facilitate a smoother and more accessible Kuwait family visit visa application journey.

Furthermore, amid recent updates, authorities emphasize the importance of timely submission and processing. They encourage applicants to adhere to specified timelines. Therefore, it helps ensuring that they submit their applications well in advance of the planned family visit. This proactive approach aligns with authorities’ efforts to enhance the overall visa application experience.

However, it is crucial to note that current geopolitical and public health events may influence visa policies. Keeping abreast of these external factors is essential, as they can impact visa processing times, entry regulations, and other pertinent aspects of the Kuwait family visit visa application.

Additionally, to stay informed, applicants should regularly check official communication channels. This includes the official Kuwaiti embassy or consulate website, where they typically post announcements, policy changes, and updates. Moreover, subscribing to newsletters or alerts from relevant authorities can ensure timely receipt of critical information.

Kuwait family visit visa documents required

Navigating the Kuwait Family Visit Visa requirements hinges on meticulous attention to the requisite documentation. The latest updates underscore the significance of the following documents:

• Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity period is a foundational requirement. Ensuring the passport remains valid for the entirety of the intended family visit is essential.
• Visa Application Form: Moreover, completing the official visa application form accurately and legibly is paramount. Providing all necessary information diligently and ensuring adherence to the latest requirements is crucial for a smooth process.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting specific criteria are mandatory. Adhering to the prescribed guidelines for these photographs is essential for a successful application.
• Relationship Proof: Furthermore, establishing proof of the familial relationship between the applicant and the inviting family member in Kuwait is a vital requirement. This might include the submission of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other pertinent documents.
• Invitation Letter: In addition, a formal invitation letter from the sponsoring family member in Kuwait is typically required. The letter should comprehensively outline the purpose and duration of the visit, including a commitment to financial responsibility if applicable.
• Financial Proof: Demonstrating financial capability to support the visit is a crucial aspect. To ensure the visitor’s well-being during their stay, officials may request bank statements, salary certificates, or other financial documents.
• Health Insurance: Additionally, securing recent health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the visit is often obligatory. This ensures that the visitor has adequate coverage for any medical contingencies during their stay in Kuwait.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): However, if the inviting family member is employed in Kuwait, a No Objection Certificate from their employer may be necessary.

Kuwait family visit visa minimum salary

The Kuwait Family Visit Visa process entails specific financial criteria for sponsors to uphold. It is crucial to be aware of the minimum salary requirement, which stands at KWD 500 (USD 1,617) per month. This requirement emphasizes the sponsor’s financial capacity to support the visiting family member during their stay in Kuwait.

Moreover, sponsors must actively demonstrate a consistent monthly income meeting or exceeding the stipulated threshold. The minimum salary requirement serves as a benchmark to ensure that sponsors have the financial means to cover the expenses associated with the family visit. Therefore, it includes accommodation, daily expenses, and potential emergencies.

Furthermore, compliance with this financial criterion is integral to the successful processing of the Kuwait Family Visit Visa application. Sponsors should proactively verify and confirm that their monthly income aligns with or surpasses the specified minimum. This ensures a smooth and efficient application process, minimizing the risk of delays or complications.

The financial stability of the sponsor is a key factor in facilitating a positive outcome for the visa application. To substantiate their financial standing during the application review, sponsors should actively maintain clear documentation of their income. It includes things such as salary certificates or official statements.

Additionally, keeping abreast of any updates or changes to the minimum salary requirement is essential for sponsors navigating the Kuwait Family Visit Visa process. Staying informed about such criteria ensures a well-prepared and successful application, fostering a seamless reunification process for families in Kuwait.

Kuwait family visit visa new rules

Navigating the landscape of Kuwait Family Visit Visa has witnessed the introduction of new rules, impacting the application process. As of the latest updates, Kuwait has implemented changes aimed at enhancing the visa system. This has helped making it more accessible and streamlined for sponsors and applicants alike.

Firstly, one noteworthy change revolves around the Kuwait Family Visit Visa open. The new rules have ushered in a more facilitative approach, making this category accessible to a broader spectrum of individuals. This openness aligns with Kuwait’s commitment to fostering family reunification and ensuring a smoother process for those wishing to bring their family members for a visit.

The new rules also emphasize certain criteria and requirements that sponsors need to fulfill. It is imperative for sponsors to stay well-informed about these changes to ensure compliance and a successful application process. Key areas of consideration may include financial eligibility, documentation requirements, and any additional criteria specified under the updated rules.

Moreover, to navigate the Kuwait Family Visit Visa under the new rules successfully, sponsors should proactively gather the necessary documents. They also need to ensure they meet the revised criteria. Timely submission and adherence to the stipulated guidelines are paramount to ensuring a seamless application process.

Applicants are encouraged to leverage official communication channels to stay abreast of any further updates or modifications to the rules. Regularly checking the official Kuwaiti embassy or consulate website is a recommended practice to access the latest information, policy changes, and announcements related to the Family Visit Visa.

By staying informed about the new rules and being proactive in meeting the requirements, sponsors can navigate the Kuwait Family Visit Visa process with confidence. This helps facilitating a smoother and more efficient experience for both sponsors and their visiting family members.

Kuwait family visit visa validity

The Kuwait Family Visit Visa validity comes with a specific validity period. This is an essential aspect for sponsors and their visiting family members to consider. Understanding the duration for which the visa remains valid is crucial to planning the family visit effectively.

Moreover, as per the regulations governing the Kuwait Family Visit Visa validity, the period is typically set by the authorities. It is imperative for sponsors to be aware of and adhere to these stipulations to ensure a smooth visit for their family members. The validity period begins from the date of issuance and extends for 90 days.

During this validity period, the visiting family members can enter Kuwait and stay for the permitted duration. It is important to note that overstaying beyond the visa’s validity is a violation of regulations. Moreover, it may lead to legal consequences. Therefore, sponsors and their visiting family members should meticulously plan their travel within the stipulated validity period.

Advising sponsors to communicate the details of the validity period to their family members is crucial to prevent inadvertent violations. Additionally, sponsors should keep track of the expiration date to ensure that their family members exit Kuwait before it expires.

Furthermore, to facilitate a hassle-free experience, sponsors can utilize official communication channels and resources to confirm the specific validity period applicable to their Kuwait Family Visit Visa. Staying informed about any updates or changes to the visa validity regulations is essential for sponsors. It also helps contributing to a successful and compliant family visit to Kuwait.

How to apply for the Kuwait family visit visa?

Applying for a Kuwait Family Visit Visa is a well-defined process that fosters family reunions in Kuwait. To facilitate this journey, sponsors should follow these key steps:

• Document Preparation: Gather essential paperwork such as proof of relationship, accommodation details, and financial documents. These documents serve as vital evidence supporting the purpose and feasibility of the family visit.
• Online Application: Utilize the user-friendly online application platform, navigating through the required fields with ease. Completing the application form accurately and providing up-to-date information is crucial for a successful submission.
• Prompt Responses: Be prepared to respond promptly to any inquiries and provide additional documentation if requested during the processing phase. Timely and accurate submission is vital, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about the last date for filing.
• Timely Submission: Adhere to specified timelines for submission, avoiding delays in processing. Regularly check official communication channels for updates and announcements regarding the application status.
• Waiting Period: After submission, there is a waiting period during which authorities review the provided information. Stay informed about the progress of the application through designated channels.

Navigating the application process diligently ensures a seamless and efficient experience, paving the way for the much-anticipated family reunion in Kuwait. Sponsors play a crucial role in maintaining clear communication and fulfilling all requirements, fostering a smooth and joyous process for both applicants and authorities involved. Embracing these steps ensures that families can share precious moments together in the welcoming atmosphere of Kuwait.

What is the Kuwait family visit visa price?

The Kuwait family visit visa comes at a cost of KWD 3 (USD 9.71), offering an economical means for sponsors to facilitate family visits. This modest fee plays a crucial role in covering administrative expenses associated with processing family visit applications. Sponsors are advised to consider this nominal fee as they embark on the application process, ensuring financial readiness to support their family members’ visit. The straightforward pricing structure is designed to promote transparency, simplifying the overall application experience.

Understanding and acknowledging this affordable fee contribute to a smoother application process. Sponsors can navigate the administrative requirements with confidence, knowing that the cost is reasonable and within reach. The emphasis on affordability aligns with the broader goal of fostering family connections and enabling sponsors to reunite with their loved ones in Kuwait. Moreover, the family visit visa’s accessible pricing underscores Kuwait’s commitment to encouraging family bonds and providing sponsors with an uncomplicated and budget-friendly option.

If you are interested in learning even more about this and other really interesting topics, we highly recommend you to take a look at our insights . On the other hand, if you want to know more about the services we can provide you, visit our contact section .

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Tough new rules eyed for visit visas from next year

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KUWAIT: The ministry of interior is considering stricter regulations for visit visas, the issuance of which is likely to resume from the beginning of next year. “A security team from the interior ministry discussed with the Public Authority of Manpower and Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry salaries and specializations in preparation to issue new regulations for visit visas, including medical insurance of KD 1,500 to KD 2,000,” sources told Kuwait Times.

“Visit visas will be issued for a duration of only a month. Overstaying will result in the sponsor paying a fine of up to KD 5,000 and will be banned from sponsoring anyone in the future. Moreover, the sponsor will pay for the overstayer’s air ticket as well,” said the sources of the new rules that are yet to be officially confirmed.

Meanwhile, a visit visa cannot be transferred to a work permit. Work permits will be issued according to required specializations and based on requests submitted by private companies in advance, the sources explained. They said the minimum salary of expats requesting visit visas for parents should be KD 700-800, and a salary of at least KD 500 for visit visas for dependents, while siblings and other relatives are not eligible for visit visas. Visit visa fees will be increased to match the prices in neighboring countries in the Gulf, the sources added.

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Kuwait raises minimum salary requirement for family visas

Expatriates now have to earn at least KD450 per month to sponsor their families

Kuwait’s interior ministry has raised the minimum salary requirement for foreign workers to sponsor their families, in a bid to reduce the country’s growing expatriate population, local media reported.

Expatriates now have to earn at least KD450 (around $1,487) per month, up from the previous requirement of KD250, to sponsor their spouses and children.

Foreign nationals already living in Kuwait or those who born in the country and earning less than KD450 will have their cases examined by the director general of the residence affairs department to decide whether they can be exempted from the ruling.

Officials have also confirmed that 14 categories of expatriates will be automatically exempt from the minimum salary requirement.

They include – chancellors, judges, prosecution staff and legal experts working in the public sector; doctors and pharmacists; university and professors at higher institutes; public school directors and deputies, educational supervisors, teachers, social workers and lab assistants; academic, financial and economic consultants; engineers; imams, preachers, muezzins and Quran teachers; librarians at government bodies and private universities; health ministry staff including nursing staff, paramedics, technicians and social workers; social workers and psychologists in the public sector; journalists, media staff and reporters; coaches and players at sports unions and clubs; pilots and flight attendants; and washers and buriers of dead bodies.

The move is expected to prevent thousands of low-paid expatriates in Kuwait from bringing their families to live with them, daily Kuwait Times reported.

According to the report, the average salary of a male expatriate in the private sector currently stands at KD247.

In the past, Kuwait had a similar minimum salary requirement of KD400 for expatriates to sponsor their families. However, the rule was modified in December 2004, reducing the minimum wage to KD250. The move was hoped to balance the demographic of the country, which was strongly tilted towards single male expatriates.

But with the number of foreigners in Kuwait reaching up to 3.3 million – and accounting for almost 70 per cent of the total population – there has been growing pressure to introduce policies to limit and reduce expatriate numbers.

Read more: Kuwait To Freeze Expat Numbers

Recent proposals under consideration include deporting expats that lose their job, according to reports.

Read more: Kuwait considers deporting expats that lose their job

In August, it was also reported that Kuwait’s Ministry of Education is preparing to cut hundreds of expatriate teachers under plans to increase the numbers of Kuwaitis in the sector.

Read more: Kuwait to cut hundreds of expat teachers

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Kuwait hikes minimum salary requirements for expat family visas

Kuwait has raised the minimum salary required for expatriates to sponsor their wives and children from KD250 to KD450.

The decision issued by Interior Minister Shaikh Mohammad Al Khalid Al Sabah to make the amendment will dramatically reduce the number of expatriate families living in Kuwait where foreigners make up two thirds of the total population believed to be around 3.3 million people.

Under Kuwait’s laws, any employee from any nationality who has a residency can sponsor his spouse, children or elderly dependent relatives to live with him or her in the country.

However, the permission to sponsor the spouse and children is granted only to those who meet the minimum salary criterion in order to ensure that the sponsor can financially support and accommodate himself and his or her dependents without recourse to public funds.

The minimum wage for the dependent visa used to be KD400, but it was lowered to KD 250 in 2004 in a bid to encourage expatriates to bring in their families and change the demography of the country from a male-dominated society to a family society.

However, the amendment over the years largely contributed to a dramatic increase of expatriates living in Kuwait, prompting calls to adopt new policies to ensure a more sensible balance between the numbers of Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis.

A limited percentage of the expatriate population, made up mainly of low-skilled Asians and Arabs working mainly in the construction and service sectors, earn more than KD450 a month.

The amendment announced on Wednesday by the minister said that the expatriate must draw the KD450 minimum salary from the occupation for which he was granted the residency visa, which rules out combinations of two jobs to reach the required monthly wage.

Foreigners who are already in Kuwait or who were born in the country and make less than KD450 a month will have their cases looked into by the director general of the residence department to assess whether they can be exempted from the minimum salary requirement.

The minister’s decision said that 14 categories would be exempted from the KD450 minimum salary condition.

The list includes advisors, judges, public prosecution staff, legal experts and researchers in the public sector; doctors and pharmacists; professors at universities, colleges and higher institutes; public school principals and vice-principals, education supervisors, teachers, social advisors and laboratory assistants in the public sector; academic, financial and economic consultants; engineers; imams, preachers, muezzins and Quran teachers; librarians in government establishments and private universities; health ministry staff including nurses, paramedics, technicians and social service workers; social workers and psychologists in the public sector; journalists, media staff and reporters; coaches and players affiliated with sports associations and clubs; pilots and flight attendants; and washers and buriers of dead bodies.

Via SyndiGate.info

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Kuwait to raise minimum salary requirement for expat family visas

The Kuwaiti government has decided to make the criteria for family visas more stringent in view of the increasing number of foreigners in Kuwait.

Kuwait : Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior will be issuing a decision to raise the minimum salary requirement for issuing family/dependent visas to 800 Kuwaiti Dinars (Rs 2,06,404), local media reported.

Currently, the salary requirement for issuing a family/dependent visa is KD500 (Rs 1,29,003).

This decision will apply to all expatriates who hold Visa Articles 17 and 18 (Private and Government).

According to Arabic daily Al Anba, to obtain a dependent/family visa, expatriates with a salary of 800 Kuwaiti Dinars must provide an original work permit or any evidence. No documents or proof of additional income will be accepted.

This is part of the ministry’s commitment to balance the demographic structure and allow highly paid expatriates to bring their families here, provided that they can prove that they are able to provide them with a satisfactory standard of living.

This decision also applies to wives, children under 16 years of age, parents and mother-in-law of the aforementioned expatriates.

Expatriates holding family visas (Article 22) are still able to stay outside the country for more than six months, a decision that has been implemented since the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Kuwait raises minimum salary for family visas

Gulf kuwait.

Move aims to address demographic imbalance as expats make 70 % of population

Manama: Kuwait has raised the minimum salary required for expatriates to sponsor their wives and children from KD250 to KD450.

The decision issued by Interior Minister Shaikh Mohammad Al Khalid Al Sabah to make the amendment will dramatically reduce the number of expatriate families living in Kuwait where foreigners make up two thirds of the total population believed to be around 3.3 million people.

Under Kuwait’s laws, any employee from any nationality who has a residency can sponsor his spouse, children or elderly dependent relatives to live with him or her in the country.

However, the permission to sponsor the spouse and children is granted only to those who meet the minimum salary criterion in order to ensure that the sponsor can financially support and accommodate himself and his or her dependents without recourse to public funds.

The minimum wage for the dependent visa used to be KD400, but it was lowered to KD 250 in 2004 in a bid to encourage expatriates to bring in their families and change the demography of the country from a male-dominated society to a family society.

However, the amendment over the years largely contributed to a dramatic increase of expatriates living in Kuwait, prompting calls to adopt new policies to ensure a more sensible balance between the numbers of Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis.

A limited percentage of the expatriate population, made up mainly of low-skilled Asians and Arabs working mainly in the construction and service sectors, earn more than KD450 a month.

The amendment announced on Wednesday by the minister said that the expatriate must draw the KD450 minimum salary from the occupation for which he was granted the residency visa, which rules out combinations of two jobs to reach the required monthly wage.

Foreigners who are already in Kuwait or who were born in the country and make less than KD450 a month will have their cases looked into by the director general of the residence department to assess whether they can be exempted from the minimum salary requirement.

The minister’s decision said that 14 categories would be exempted from the KD450 minimum salary condition.

The list includes advisors, judges, public prosecution staff, legal experts and researchers in the public sector; doctors and pharmacists; professors at universities, colleges and higher institutes; public school principals and vice-principals, education supervisors, teachers, social advisors and laboratory assistants in the public sector; academic, financial and economic consultants; engineers; imams, preachers, muezzins and Quran teachers; librarians in government establishments and private universities; health ministry staff including nurses, paramedics, technicians and social service workers; social workers and psychologists in the public sector; journalists, media staff and reporters; coaches and players affiliated with sports associations and clubs; pilots and flight attendants; and washers and buriers of dead bodies.

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