kuwait commercial visit visa validity

Kuwait Visa Types

Kuwait has different visa types created to differentiate between the visitor’s entry requirements, lengths of stay and purpose of their trip. We provide information about the Kuwait visa and the Kuwait visa types available including the Kuwait visit visa, the Kuwait residence visa as well as the Kuwait Transit visa.

Each section describes all of the e-Visa entry requirements necessary to travel to the country . The Kuwait entry requirements are determined by the applicant’s nationality and reasons to visit Kuwait.

1. Kuwait Tourist Visa

The electronic visa (eVisa) for Kuwait is available for travelers of a number of nationalities who plan to visit the Gulf state as tourists .

The Kuwait eVisa allows the holder a single entry to the country and enables them to stay for up to 90 days .

It can be obtained via a simple online eVisa application form . The foreign traveler must answer a series of questions and enter some basic information such as their contact details and passport number.

This usually takes a matter of minutes to complete and can be done from the traveler’s home or office , which means that they do not have to arrange an appointment at a Kuwaiti embassy to get their visa.

The processing time for a Kuwait eVisa is between one (1) and three (3) business days. Once approved, the eVisa is sent to the traveler by email.

2. Kuwait Visit Visa

A Kuwait visit visa must be sponsored by a Kuwait company or by a relative that is a resident foreigner staying in the country. Before traveling to Kuwait, a visitor can have his visa processed and passport stamped at their nearest Kuwait embassy.

A Kuwait sponsor can use a faxed copy of the visitor's passport to obtain the visit visa in Kuwait . A copy of the visa can be faxed to the visitor to enable him or her to travel to Kuwait. They can then meet at the airport with the original visa upon entering the country. There is a special counter in the arrival hall where the sponsor can deposit the visa papers. The visitor must pick up his original documents at a similar special counter inside the immigration area. The original documents are required to complete entry formalities.

It takes approximately 2 working days to obtain a Kuwait visit visa . Hotels can arrange visit visas for business and it takes around 7 days.

Visit Visa for Business

To obtain the Kuwait visit visa for Business the applicant must have a sponsor.

• Kuwait sponsor or company
• Kuwait visit visa application and security form filled out by the sponsor
• A copy of the visitor's passport
• A copy of the sponsor's signature as registered for business purposes
• A copy of the sponsor's letter of invitation to the business, stating the purpose of the visit.

Visit Visa for Relatives

Immediate family members and other relatives who reside in other countries can visit family members currently living in Kuwait . No eligibility or criteria is required. As long as you have a proof of relationship, you can definitely visit with your Kuwait Visit Visa .

The required documents for a family visit visa are:

• Proof of relationship or kinship
• Copy of the visitor's valid passport
• Original and copy of the civil ID of the sponsor (or the family who resides in Kuwait)
• Recent salary certificate for foreign sponsor

The procedures for obtaining a family visit visa:

• Go to the Kuwait Embassy in your country and submit the required documents for a family visit visa listed above.
• Fill the service application form (Visa Application Form). Click this link to download the forms here.
• Pay the fees due. Family visit visa application costs a flat fee of 3KD.

Kuwait Multiple-Entry Visit visa

People who obtain a multiple entry visit visa are able to enter Kuwait as many times as they want during a one-year period. This type of visit visa for Kuwait is most handy for business sponsored foreigners, the sponsor however, has to be the ministry of defense.

Unlike other westerners, Americans are able to obtain multiple entry visit visas for Kuwait that have a validity of 10 years and unlimited number of entries.

Other entry requirements for Kuwait

Vaccination.

In most cases, vaccination certificates are not necessary to be granted entrance to the Kuwaiti grounds , but they become mandatory if the visitor comes from an area that's infected by a viral disease such yellow fever or cholera. The certificates are a proof that the visitor is healthy and won't be transmitting any diseases with him. In the case of visitors coming from infected countries, besides providing certificates, they might also be subjected to medical examination after a few days from their arrival. The visitor has to also confirm the last country he's visited with the Kuwait consulate.

Kuwait is a disease free country and you won't have to take any precautions before visiting it, but an up to date medical checkup is always welcomed.

Addresses in Kuwait

Upon his entrance, a visitor has to fill an entry form at the airport in which he specifies his staying location during his visit. Hotel managers have to keep the ministry of interior informed about the check-ins and check-outs of foreign visitors. The immigration department has to be informed whenever a visitor decides to change his address within 48 hours.

Visitors who entered Kuwait on a visit visa are not allowed to work. In order to do that they have to obtain a residence visa and a work permit.

Kuwait Visit Visa validity

Kuwait visit visas (and also entry permits) are valid for entry within 90 days of issue . Visitors can stay in Kuwait up to 30 days after entry.

Kuwait Visit Visa costs

Kuwait visit visa costs KD3.00 Entry permits are free.

Extending Kuwait Visit Visa

If you are holding a Kuwait visit visa, you can only stay up to a maximum of 30 days in the country. If you extend your stay, you will have to pay KD10.00 per day. If your Kuwait visit visa is expired, you will not be allowed to leave the country until you pay the total fine.

Kuwait Visit Visa extension fines

Fines must be paid in the immigration department in Shuwaikh. The office is open during government working hours. Fines are not paid at the airport. You can pay fines in advance if you anticipate your stay extension.

Where to submit an application for extension

An expatriate may apply for a two one-month extension of a Kuwait visit visa or temporary residence. The applications are submitted to the Immigration Department before the expiration of the Kuwait visit visa.

Other Kuwait Visit Visa extension solutions

Another solution for extending Kuwait visit visa is to obtain a second visit visa in the country, schedule a day-long travel to Bahrain. You can leave Kuwait in the morning, and return in the evening. The length of flight from Kuwait to Bahrain is 40-minutes by plane. This costs KD45.00.

3. Kuwait Residence Visa

To live in Kuwait , an expatriate other than GCC citizens must have a Kuwait residence visa, or iqama. There are three main types of Kuwait residence visa: work visa, domestic, and dependent visa. These three visas require a sponsor. An expatriate may sponsor his own residence, with or without allowing to work, as long as he lived in Kuwait for a long time and has a ample financial means.

Family Visa (Dependent Visa)

Upon obtaining residency in Kuwait , an employed man can bring his wife and children to Kuwait to live with him. In order to do that, it is mandatory that he earns at least 450KD monthly (in case of possessing a 17-visa) and at least 650KD monthly (in case of possessing a 18-visa). If both man and wife work in Kuwait, they have the possibility to sponsor their children there but only if their salaries combined exceed 350KD monthly.

There are several limitations for this type of visa:

• A wife can't sponsor her husband.
• While you can sponsor adult daughters and parents, you can't sponsor sons of over 21 years old.
• Dependent family members can't work until they convert to a Kuwaiti work visa.

In order to obtain a dependent visa for a member of your family, you need to go to the "jawazaat" bureau situated in Shuwaikh. You need to fill an application in Arabic, if you don't master the Arabic language, you can hire a bilingual typist to do it for you. After filling the form, you need to supply the following documents:

• Copy of the dependent's passport
• Copy of his civil ID
• The sponsor's salary certificate
• Child birth or marriage certificate that have been authenticated by the sponsor's embassy in his origin country.

The residence visa for family formalities are similar to those of the work visa. Upon entering the country, the dependent has to undergo medical tests and have his fingerprints taken. The dependent have to provide similar documents to the ones provided by the sponsor except for salary certificate. The last requirement for this procedure is the sponsor's declaration that he's going to maintain and support the dependent as long as he stays in Kuwait.

The residence visa for family fees are:

Private sector employees:

• 100KD/person: during the first year for wife and the 2 first children
• 200KD/person: remaining children.

Public sector employees:

• 10KD/person: during the first year for wife and the 2 first children
• 100KD/person: remaining children.

Renewal fees:

• 10KD/person: for children and wife in all cases
• 200KD/person: sponsor's parents and in-laws

Kuwait Work Visa

Work visas are iqamas granted for public and private sector employees under articles 17 and 18 of the immigration regulations. An employment offer must first be accepted to obtain Kuwait residence visa on a work visa. A Kuwaiti employer sponsor shall apply for the work permit from the Ministry of Social Affairs & Labour. Requirements for the work permit are employee's passport and no-objection certificate or NOC from the General Administration of Criminal Investiagation at the Ministry of Interior.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kuwait will send a copy of the work permit to the Kuwaiti Embassy in the country where the employee lives for endorsement. The sponsor or employer must also send a copy of the work permit to the employee to take to the embassy. The employee must apply for an entry visa for Kuwait. Employees for private sector companies require NOCs and a copy of the employer's authorised signatory as registered for business purposes.

If the employee lives in a country without a Kuwait Embassy, the sponsor will have to submit the work permit and NOC to the Ministry of the Interior to get an entry visa.

If an employee is on a visit visa in Kuwait when he accepted the employment, he must leave Kuwait and return on the new entry visa.

Most nationalities are required to return to their own country for medical tests and endorsement from the country's Kuwait Embassy. For westerners, a one day round trip to Bahrain by plane can do.

Domestic Servants Visa in Kuwait

Domestic servant visa is issued to resident expatriate's full-time servant sourced from a country outside Kuwait. The resident will be the sponsor for this type of visa. Expatriate families are usually allowed to bring a maid in the country.

Requirements for Domestic Servant Visa

The first requirement is, if you are a male sponsor, you must have a wife living with you if you are going to hire a female servant.

Age limit for the servants is between 20 and 50 years.

Domestic servant visa does not apply to immediate family members or relatives of any degree of consanguinity.

No minimum salary required if the sponsor husband and wife are both working, and if the sponsor family includes children.

Domestic Servant Visa documents required

• Salary certificates of sponsor and wife
• Photocopy of house rental agreement
• Photoopy of sponsor's and wife's passport
• Proof of ages of children (photocopy of local birth certificates or passport)
• Photocopy of the sponsor's and wife's civil ID
• Photoopy of the servant's passport plus eight passport sized photos
• Photocopy of the servant's work contract

Approval of the Domestic Servant Visa

The immigration official approves the domestic servant visa. The immigration will look into the sponsor's house size, monthly income, and the actual need for a maid.

How to apply for a Domestic Servant Visa

Domestic servant visa may be obtained from the Jawazaat in Shuwaikh.

The application form must be filled out in Arabic. If you do not speak and write in Arabic, you will find bilingual typists in Shuwaikh. They charge 500 fils.

The servant or maid need to go to the Kuwait embassy in his or her home country.

After the flight to Kuwait, the domestic servant visa will require his or her passport photos, and documents (same list as that of a work visa , except for the work permit). The servant has to pay a residence fee of KD200.00 for the first year and KD10.00 for the succeeding years.

This process can go through Kuwaiti agencies that specialize in obtaining domestic servants or maids for Kuwaitis and expatriates. One must have to be careful though in choosing an agency. Most are reliable agencies, but a few have unfavorable reputations.

Kuwait Newborn Child Visa

Expatriates in Kuwait must get an iqama (or visa) when their child is born in the country. It is a dependent Kuwait visa or iqama for the child.

Requirements for Newborn Child Kuwait Visa

• The father can sponsor his child's residence.
• No minimum salary requirement.
• Official birth certificate for the child

How to obtain an expatriate's Newborn Child Certificate?

The hospital where the child was born will advise a written notification of the birth . The hospital will provide the address. It is written in Arabic. If the parents do not speak and write in the language, the child's name will be written phonetically in Arabic.Other documents required for the birth certificate are:

• Application form
• Photocopies of parents' passport
• Photocopies of parents' civil IDs
• Authenticated marriage contract
• Proposed first name of the child

Procedures for the Newborn Birth Certificate

• Submit application form and requirements at the registry.
• Pay the fee amounting to 10KD.
• Pick up the birth certificate at the registry after 7 days.

Procedures for the New Born Kuwait Visa, Passport and Residency

To obtain residency for the child , his name must be added to the parent's passport.

Another way is to obtain a separate passport for the child, which is a more common option. If a child has his own passport, he can travel without his parent if necessary.

A requirement for a child's passport is a certified translation of the child's birth certificate, and other non-Arabic embassies require an authenticated certificate by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kuwait.

When the child's name is added to the parent's passport, or when he obtains his own passport, a child's residence can be obtained. There are no special procedures for obtaining a new born child's residence. The fee for actual residence application is 10KD per year.

Parents on domestic servant visas are not allowed to keep their child in Kuwait. He or she must obtain an exit visa for the child. Parents can apply for an exit visa from the Ministry of the interior. There is no fee for the exit visa.

Other requirements for Kuwait Residence Visa

The employee is required to provide a medical certificate issued by an embassy-accredited clinic. For some nationalities, a good conduct certificate (sometimes called police clearance). At Kuwait, another round of local medical tests are required. A fingerprint certificate will be issued to completely process the Kuwait residence visa.

4. Kuwait Transit Visa

If you're visiting Kuwait and in a need for a Kuwait transit visa, then you can obtain it from the port authority in Kuwait or from its counsulteaboard . You have 7 days maximum to put that visa in use or else it will expire and you'll have to get a new one.

You may also apply for a Kuwait Online Visa via an online application. Eligible applicants need to complete the form with your personal information and valid travel document, or passport information. Once issued, the Kuwait Online visa is valid for 90 days.

In order to obtain the transit visa, you have to possess a valid visa for the next country to visit and a confirmed onward ticket if you don't work on an airline or a ship. And in case you're an international truck driver, you will be able to obtain multiple kuwait transit visa.

5. Kuwait Entrance Visa

The entrance visa allows government and civil sector employees to issue visas for joining providers. The minimum criteria for eligibility is 400KD. It should not be less than the minimum.

The required documents are the following

• Copy of the sponsor's civil ID (please refer to Article (19) residents)
• Copy of the dependant's passport (for Article (19) residents)
• Salary certificate of government sector (for Article (19) residents)
• Copy of company contract and/or license
• Copy of the attested marriage contract or proof of kinship document
• Copy of work permit t0 define the salary condition of civil sector employees (must meet the minimum requirement for salary)

Fees: 3KD (fixed)

Procedures:

• Visit the General Department of Immigration in the governorate you refer to and submit the required documents.
• Fill the service application form ( download the form here ).

Requirements for an Entry Visa

Visas for U.S. citizens are issued upon arrival at all Kuwaiti ports of entry.

General Requirements:

• Valid passport with a minimum of six (6) months prior to expiration date.
• Two (2) completed current visa application forms .
• Two (2) photographs.
• Fee: U.S. passport $150.00 for single entry and $175.00 for multiple entries. Contact the embassy for other nationalities.

Purpose of visit and additional requirements are as follows:

• BUSINESS VISITORS: Letter from U.S. firm requesting the issuance of a visa and guaranteeing the applicant while in Kuwait.
• VISITORS OF FRIENDS AND RELATIVES: Holding No Objection Certificates obtained by relatives/friend in Kuwait are not required to stamp visas in their passports by the Embassy.
• Government Contract: copy of Letter of Appointment from Kuwait.
• Private Sector: Work Permit issued by the General Department of Immigration Affairs in Kuwait. (If spouse or family members are accompanying applicant, Work permit, No Objection Certificate or Letter of Appointment must indicate that.)

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

• Permit to re-enter the United States is not a U.S. Passport as indicated on page #1 of permit.
• Passports sent by mail should include a pre-paid, self-addressed envelope (registered mail) for return.
• Fees should be paid by cash, money order or company check. PERSONAL CHECKS ARE NOT ACCEPTED.

Assessing travel and visa obligations in Kuwait

When traveling to Kuwait, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

Traveling for business

What types of activities may i engage in as a business visitor.

As a business visitor to Kuwait, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• Attend business meetings
• Buy goods for sale outside the country
• Tour a company facility
• Attend conventions or trade shows

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Kuwait?

Foreign nationals traveling to Kuwait to engage in business activities are generally required to obtain a Commercial Visit Visa, also known as a Business Visitor Visa, from a Kuwaiti Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

Nationals of select countries may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival (also called Article 14-Visa or Visa-14) for business purposes. Additionally, some nationals may be eligible to obtain an e-Visa online prior to departure.

Nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states are eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a Commercial Visit Visa to engage in business activities in Kuwait. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to determine eligibility for a Commercial Visit Visa, e-Visa or visa waiver.

Working in Kuwait

What types of activities require work authorization.

Foreign nationals may generally be permitted to engage in short-term technical activities and other hands-on work, such as systems installation and repairs, with a valid Commercial Visit Visa. Additionally, U.S. nationals intending to perform short-term technical activities on a military base may be eligible to obtain an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival. Please consult with your immigration provider before traveling to confirm eligibility for a short-term work authorization exemption.

If I am traveling to Kuwait for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work and on whether your employer has an entity in Kuwait. All foreign nationals intending to engage in work activities must obtain a Work Visa and Civil ID card.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Nationals from GCC member states are not required to obtain work authorization to work in Kuwait. However, registrations or other formalities may be required for these nationals to work and or reside in Kuwait.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright ©2024 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.

At a glance, related content, issuance of visit visas suspended , work permit renewals for those 60 and over resumed , covid-19: entry requirements updated .

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What is Kuwait Business Visa?

How to apply for the kuwait business visa, eligibility of kuwait business visa, when you have this visa, documents required for kuwait business visa, photo specifications, kuwait business visa processing time, kuwait business visa fees, after submission, kuwait business visa - definitive guide.

With the ever strong petroleum industry, Kuwait does not lack in resources. However, what makes them different from the rest of the rich Arab countries is their focus on the financial sector. Along with this, there are several other opportunities to perform business in the country. To do this, however, one would require a Kuwait Business Visa .

To perform business-related activities, one requires a business permit to enter the country. This type of permit is given for a duration of 30 days to be used in a 90-day period with a single entry. However, a multiple-entry visa may be issued when your business sponsor is the ministry of defense. Residents of GCC countries and a few other nations can get a visa on arrival in the country. 

The process of applying for the Kuwait Business Visa for Indian citizens can be followed below. Please note that if you are an Indian citizen residing in one of the GCC countries, you may be eligible for the visa on arrival. 

• Acquire the necessary documents required for the application.
• Download the application form from the website of the Kuwait consulate.
• Fill in the form with the details and attach your photos on it.
• Submit the application, along with your documents to the Kuwait embassy or consulate.

Alternately, your sponsor in Kuwait can apply for the visa over there for you. This will require you to provide them with your passport copies, and details. 

Ensure that you provide the right details and genuine documents. Providing false information can lead to your visa being rejected. A visa rejection is considered a black mark in your passport.

To be able to apply for the business permit, you must meet the below Kuwait business visa requirements.

• You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the day of travel.
• You should have a sponsor or company in Kuwait.
• Your purpose of the visit must be to engage in business activities such as business meetings, conferences, contracts, etc.
• You must be holding an invitation letter from a Kuwaiti company or organization stating your visit. 

Once you have your permit, keep in mind the following points - 

• Ensure that you carry all your travel documents including passport and a copy of the visa.
• Do not overextend your stay in the country. For every day that you stay back after your visa expiry, you will be fined 10 KD per day.
• When you land in Kuwait, you will have to collect your original copy of the visa from the airport visa collection booth.
• While you are on a business permit, strictly adhere to the regulations of it. You cannot work or take up a job while you are on this. 
• Follow and ensure that your stay is in accordance with the Kuwait laws.

As per the embassy requirements, the following are the list of necessary documents for the application.  

• A valid passport
• Completed visa application forms
• 2 photographs
• Covering letter from the Indian company (on the letterhead) stating details such as the purpose, duration of the visit
• Confirmed flight tickets
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of employment
• Business registration in the Chamber of Commerce, of Indian Company
• Invitation letter from the Kuwaiti company or sponsor.
• 2 identical passport size photos
• Recently taken
• Colored, with a white background
• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
• Face should cover 80% of the photo
• Facial expression - neutral
• Head in a central location
• Eyeglasses are not permitted
• Headwear - permitted in case of religious reasons

The time taken to process the permit varies upon several factors. These include the workload at the embassy, single entry or multiple entries and so on. Normally, the visa is processed within 10 working days. However, in cases with complications, these can increase.

The fees for the permit depends on the duration of the business visa, whether it is single entry or multiple entries. It also depends on any extra charges for faster visa processing as well as the service charges for the agencies.

Once your visa has been submitted, it will begin being processed. If it has been approved, you will receive the visa via email.

To track your visa, you will have to email the embassy or contact the registered travel agent through whom you have applied for the visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a medical test for the business visa.

No, a medical test is not mandatory for the business permit. However, if you are coming from a country that has been infected with certain diseases, you will require vaccination and a medical certificate showing that you are healthy. You might also be subjected to a medical exam upon arrival in Kuwait.

Can I get a multiple-entry business visa?

The normal visit visa is issued as a single-entry permit and valid for a month. However, in cases where the sponsor is the ministry of defense, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa for a one year period. For Americans, there is a multiple-entry visa issued for upto 10 years.

Can I extend my Kuwait business visa?

No, you cannot. As per the recent regulations, the visit visa cannot be extended or transferred to another type of visa. You will have to leave when the visa expires, or you will be subjected to fines. To apply for another visa, you will have to apply for it from outside Kuwait. 

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Kuwait's New Visit Visa Rules 2024

Understanding the New Visit Visa Regulations Set to Commence This Wednesday

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, many countries are revisiting their immigration policies to better manage the influx of visitors. A significant update comes from the upcoming changes to the visit visa rules, which are set to take effect this Wednesday. These modifications aim to streamline the visitation process while ensuring that visitors and expatriates can enjoy a hassle-free experience. This detailed article delves into the nuances of the new regulations, offering clarity and guidance to prospective visitors.

1. Visa Validity and Entry Requirements

Under the new regulations, individuals granted a visit visa must enter the country within a month from the date the visa is issued. This change underscores the importance of timely travel planning, as visas will become invalid after this one-month period. This measure is designed to prevent the accumulation of unused visas and ensure that visitors are genuinely intending to enter the country within a specified timeframe.

2. Revised Visit Visa Durations

A significant adjustment has been made concerning the duration of visit visas:

• For Wives and Children of Expatriates : The duration for visit visas has been reduced to three months. This change aims to better accommodate the short-term nature of family visits while still allowing ample time for families to spend together.
• For Parents and Siblings : The visit visa duration for parents and siblings is now limited to one month. This adjustment reflects a more streamlined approach to managing family visits, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their stay without overstaying.

3. Age Restrictions for Visit Visa Applicants

In a move to tailor the visit visa policy more precisely, individuals over the age of 50 will generally not be eligible for a visit visa. However, exceptions may be made for parents above this age threshold, subject to a thorough review of the applicant's situation and salary. This criterion ensures that visitors can adequately support themselves during their stay and that their visit is in line with the country's immigration objectives.

4. Health Insurance Requirement

A notable proposal under consideration is the requirement for visit visa applicants to purchase health insurance. This potential requirement aims to safeguard visitors and the healthcare system, ensuring that all visitors can access medical care without imposing a financial burden on the host country.

5. Minimum Salary Requirements

The financial capability of expatriates applying for visit visas for their families has been addressed through specific salary requirements:

• For Wives and Children : A minimum salary of 400 KWD is required to apply for a visit visa. This requirement ensures that visiting family members are adequately supported during their stay.
• For Parents and Siblings : The minimum salary threshold is set at 800 KWD for visit visas. This higher requirement reflects the additional financial responsibility assumed by those inviting extended family members.

The forthcoming changes to the visit visa regulations represent a significant shift in immigration policy, emphasizing the need for responsible tourism and family visits. By setting clear guidelines on visa validity, duration, applicant eligibility, and financial requirements, the new rules aim to foster a balanced and sustainable visitation framework. Prospective visitors and expatriates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visitation experience.

These updates underscore the country's commitment to maintaining a welcoming yet regulated environment for international visitors. As the implementation date approaches, it is crucial for all potential visitors and expatriates to review these regulations closely and prepare accordingly to ensure compliance and a hassle-free entry.

[Update] Kuwait Visit Visa Validity Now up to 1 Month only, No more Extension

Before planning of going to Kuwait either for business, vacation, or to meet a relative, you need to apply for a visit visa first. Just last August 5 (Sunday), however, the Director General of the General Department for Residency Affairs, Major General Abdullah Al-Hajri, had released a circular to inform all residency affairs departments in all governorates to announce that all types of visit visa (dependent, commercial, and tourist) will only be valid for up to a month only , and could no longer be applied for extension starting August 5, 2018.

Prior to this update, Kuwait visit visas may be valid for 3 months, 6 months, and even up to a year (for multiple visit visas). Also, an application for visit visa extension for up to a month or two can be accommodated by the Immigration Department if the application is filed prior to the expiration of the document. The visa update is influenced by the government’s goal to improve residency and immigration protocols in the country.

‘Visit’ Visas in Kuwait Valid for up to 1 Month only, No Extensions

Another means to extend a visit visa in the country prior this update was by obtaining a second visit visa during the person’s stay in the country. Cross-border trips were also one of the simpler ways back then to get a second visit visa.

In other related news, the Assistant Undersecretary for Citizenship , Passport and Residency Affairs at the Ministry of Interior (MoI), Major General Sheikh Faisal Al-Nawaf visited the headquarters of the Citizenship, Passport and Residency Affairs Sector and shared instructions to finalize the preparation and issuance of e-passports, and to properly handle all transactions for guests, under the directives of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior retired Lieutenant General Sheikh Khalid Al-Jarrah and Undersecretary of Ministry of Interior Lieutenant General Essam Al-Naham.

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The different types of E-visas Kuwait

The E-Visa Tourist Kuwait is an electronic visa, which can be obtained exclusively online. The same goes for a tourist visa, a business visa or an express visa. The renewal of a residence visa will also be done online.

Border monitoring is carried out by the Royal Kuwait Police, to control the flow of travelers but also facilitate their entry into the territory and have at their disposal several types of visa to travel to Kuwait. The different types of visa are:

The express visa

• The business visa for investors
• Visa for visiting relatives and friends
• The visa for official visit
• The multiple entry visa

The tourist visa

The express visa is generally used for businessmen, participants in convention conferences. It is often granted by the representatives of the Sultanate abroad in agreement with the general direction of passport and stay. This visa allows a stay of 21 days maximum from the date of entry and cannot be renewed. In case of exceeding this duration, the traveler is liable to a fine for the expiry of the visa in the amount of 10 Kuwaiti rials.

The documents required to obtain an express visa are :

• Two pictures (4 × 6) cm
• Copy of the foreign passport valid for a period of at least six months.
• Copy of the specimen signatures of the signing officers issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
• Copy of the valid membership certificate of the Kuwaiti Chamber of Commerce and Industry, accompanied by a copy of the valid commercial register.
• A typewritten letter aimed by the guarantor explaining the purpose of the candidate's visit to the Sultanate.
• The approval of the relevant authorities regarding certain professions such as medical, media and religious.

Business visa for foreign investors in Kuwait

The business visa is exclusively reserved for investors wishing to place their funds in a commercial activity State of Kuwait. The validity of the business visa is six months from the date of issue. Its issue is subject to verification of the investment and will then allow a renewable residence permit of two years. The business visa allows multiple entries in the territory of the Sultanate. The business is subject to some conditions and the investor must first obtain the approval of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

• Two format photographs (4X6) cm.
• A copy of the investor's passport valid for a period of at least six months
• The original partnership certificate issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and a copy of the certificate.
• The work permit issued by the Ministry of Manpower, stamped with an investor's stamp. . Copy of the specimen signatures of the signing officers issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
• In case the application is submitted by someone other than the partners, the representative must be Kuwaiti and provided with an authorization issued by the General Directorate of Passport & Stay at the request of the guarantor. A medical fitness certificate issued to nationals of certain countries defined as follows by the Ministry of Health (India, Pakistan, Philippines, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia); this certificate must be endorsed by the Ministry of Health.

The visa for the visit of a close one or an Kuwaiti friend

It is granted at the request of the family or a friend of an Kuwaiti citizen. The visa for an official visit is valid for six months from the date of issue and allows a stay of three months. This period can be renewed for a period of one month, at a fee of 20 Kuwait rials. In case of expiry of the visa, the traveler is liable to a fine for each day of delay in the amount of 10 Kuwaiti rials.

• Two pictures (4 × 6) cm.
• A copy of the foreigner's passport valid for a period of at least six months.
• Copy of the specimen signature of the signing officers issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. In the case of personal sponsorships, a copy of the guarantor's personal identity card is required for the signature comparison.
• Copy of the foreign resident's passport, which should greet the visitor, (to check the degree of relationship).
• A letter of commitment in which the guarantor declares that he is responsible for the visitor during his visit to Kuwait, and must mention his relationship with the visitor.

The visa for an official visit in the State of Kuwait

The visa for official visit is granted for a maximum validity of three months, which however may be renewed for a similar duration. Once issued, the official visit visa must be used within six months from the date of issue. The conditions and documents required to obtain a visa for an official visit are:

• Two format photos (4 × 6) cm.
• A letter from the sponsoring government agency, explaining the reason of the visit.

The multiple entry visa for Kuwait

The multiple entry visa may be granted from the countries listed below, or for certain categories of citizens, such as diplomats on mission for the Gulf Cooperation Council. The multiple entry visa is also used by foreign businessmen having a professional activity in the sultanate without wishing to reside on its territory. The conditions and documents required to obtain a multiple entry visa are:

• Validity of the visa: three months from the date of issue.
• Duration of the visa: valid for a period of not less than six months and not exceeding one year, to the holder to reside in the country for a period not exceeding three weeks at each visit.
• Fee: (50) Kuwaiti riyals, or currency equivalent.
• Non-renewable.
• Attach two format photos (4 x 6) cm.
• Attach a copy of the valid foreign passport for a period of at least six months.
• Attach a copy of the Signing Signatures Signature Sheet issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (for local sponsored applications).
• Attach a valid copy of the certificate of the Kuwaiti Chamber of Commerce and Industry (for application submitted with local sponsorship) and a valid copy of the commercial register.
• Guarantor's cover letter, signed and sealed explaining the purpose of the visit.
• The person for whom the request is submitted must be in the Sultanate with an express visa on the responsibility of the same guarantor.
• Tourist visa to visit Kuwait

The tourist visa is most commonly used to visit the State of Kuwait, it is valid for a period of one month. The tourist visa allows its holder after request for extension to reside an additional month in the sultanate. The required documents and conditions for obtaining a tourist visa are:

• Validity of the visa: six months from the date of issue.
• Valid for staying in the country for a period not exceeding thirty days from the date of entry.
• Number of trips: one trip.
• May be extended for a similar period.
• Fee: 99 euros
• Fine in case of visa expiry: (10) Kuwaiti Riyals for each day late.
• Two format photos (4 x 6) cm

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Kuwait Announces New Visa Durations: 1 Month For Family And 3 Months For Tourists

The Residency Affairs departments in all six governorates witnessed an influx of expatriates seeking to apply for either family, commercial or tourist visit visas following the announcement made by the ministry about the resumption of issuance of these visas under new conditions based on instructions from the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef.

These conditions stipulate the following:-

- The applicant’s monthly salary should not be less than KD 400 in order to apply for visas for parents, wife, and children, and not less than KD 800 for relatives.

- The specified duration of the visit should be adhered to

- A round-trip flight ticket must be booked on national airlines.

- Requests to convert the visit visas into residence permits will not be accepted.

Wednesday morning, Al-Seyassah toured a number of Residence Affairs departments, and discovered that the number of applicants in Jahra Governorate was less compared to Farwaniya and Hawally governorates.

The Hawally Residence Affairs Department witnessed large numbers of expatriates, some of whom came without a prior appointment and were sent back. The “Mata” app has nearly 150 visitors daily in each department.

Also, Farwaniya Governorate witnessed a large number of expatriates, but those who did not have a prior appointment were sent back. They were asked to visit the Mata application, as the process for applying through the application requires printing the form, attaching the required papers and documents, and then submitting to the department.

According to security sources, the Residency Affairs departments received an estimated 900 transactions yesterday morning in all the Residence Affairs departments. The applicant’s data are extracted, and reviewed to verify their compliance with the set conditions.

They stressed the need for obtaining an appointment via the Mata app to carry out the transaction so as to organize the reception of expatriates with ease and avoid crowding, as well as the need for providing a round-trip flight ticket within a month along with all the documents required to submit the application.

The sources indicated that a decision has not yet been made regarding receiving the transactions of expatriates with banned nationalities.

They revealed that a family visit visa is valid for one month and a tourist visit visa is valid for three months, adding that applications are submitted through the website of the Ministry of Interior.

It is worth highlighting that the Ministry of Interior had earlier announced in a press statement the conditions to be met for applying for visit visas. They are:-

- The applicant’s salary must not be less than KD 400 in order to bring in first-degree relatives (wife, children, and parents), and not be less than KD 800 to apply for a visit visa for the rest of the relatives.

- It is required to provide a round-trip flight ticket of the national airlines (the national carrier) and submit a written pledge not to request for conversion of visit visa to residence permit in the country.

- The visitors must adhere to the duration of the visit visa.

- Medical treatments for visitors will be provided in hospitals and private health centers but they will not receive medical treatment in government hospitals if they violate the period of stay. In such cases, both the visitor and the sponsor will be included in the security control system by the Directorate General of Residency Affairs Investigations. The violator will be followed up by the Directorate General of Residency Affairs Investigations and the legal procedures followed for violators of the foreigners’ residency law will be applied against him.

- Commercial entry visa will be issued upon a request submitted by Kuwaiti companies or institutions, and granted to those holding university or technical qualifications and in a manner commensurating with the company’s activity and the nature of its work.

- Tourist visas will be issued to people belonging to 53 countries, either directly from the port of entry upon arrival in the country or through an electronic visa by visiting the Ministry of Interior’s website – www.moi.gov.kw, and for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

- Tourist visas will be issued to people with professions specified in ministerial Resolution No. 2030/2008 and its amendments, and in accordance with the controls and requirements specified in the aforementioned ministerial resolution, via hotels and companies that have an automated interface with the Directorate General of Residence Affairs system in accordance with the applicable requirements for that purpose.

The Ministry of Interior affirmed in its statement that the latest decision was issued based on a desire to stimulate the commercial, economic and tourism movement in the country, taking into account the social aspects, most notably the family visit visa granted to parents, wife and children of the residents.

By Munaif Naif

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

• New Visa Durations in Kuwait
• Family Visa Validity in Kuwait
• Tourist Visa Validity in Kuwait
• Commercial entry visa in Kuwait
• Kuwait Residency Affairs departments
• Kuwait Tourist Visit Visa

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Apply for and track your visa with our new app!

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Do GCC residents and citizens need a visa or eVisa for Kuwait?

Learn more about the requirements, rules, and guidelines that international travelers must follow to visit Kuwait, including GCC residents and citizens (Bahrain, Oman Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates).

Find out more about Kuwait's visa policy and entry requirements here.

Do GCC citizens need a visa to visit Kuwait?

Citizens from GCC countries, including the following, do not require a visa to visit Kuwait and may use their national ID Cards to enter the country for an unlimited stay:

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Do GCC residents (foreigners with a GCC country residence permit) need a visa for Kuwait?

According to the visa regulations of Kuwait, all foreign citizens who have a residence permit of a GCC country must apply for a visa before they go.

The good news is that many can apply for a Kuwait eVisa 100% online , without the hassle of visiting an embassy or consulate.

However, the opportunity to apply for a Kuwait eVisa online is limited to GCC residents working in specific professions , including:

• Consultants
• Judges & Members of the Public Prosecution
• University Teachers
• Press & Media Staff
• System Analysts & Computer Programmers
• Businessmen
• Diplomatic Corps
• University Graduates (specifically owners, managers, and representatives of commercial companies and establishments)

What if I don't fall under the professions list?

If you're not part of the eligible list of professions and have a GCC residence permit, your visa requirements depend on your nationality .

If your nationality is eligible for an eVisa, you can still apply online. Check your eligibility through our visa checker by entering your nationality. If it's not on the list of eligible countries, you must apply for a Kuwait Embassy Visa in advance .

How to apply for a Kuwait Visa as a GCC resident?

There are a couple of way to get a Kuwait visa, depending if you need an Embassy Visa or eVisa.

How to apply for the Kuwait eVisa

Go to the Kuwait government website and follow the instructions.

Another way to apply is through our online platform or app . We offer a simplified application, flexible payment options, and a thorough review of your application before submitting it to the government.

With both options you can apply from the comfort of your own home, without having to visit an embassy.

How to apply for the Kuwait Embassy Visa

If you're a GCC resident but not on the list of eligible professions and to apply for an eVisa, and not from an eligible country, apply for a Kuwait Embassy Visa instead:

Check your eligibility for the eVisa or Embassy Visa here .

Reach out to the Kuwait Embassy or Consulate nearest to you and follow their instructions.

Make a visa appointment and gather the supporting documents for the visa application to submit during the embassy visit.

Need more info about traveling to Kuwait?

We're always available to answer any questions you may have. Contact us via online chat or WhatsApp for more info.

Related Articles

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Kuwait Liberation Day: Celebrate resilience and freedom

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Commercial Visit Visa

Kindly advise the guidelines to apply for commerical visit visa. are such visas open duration of stay documents required to apply i wish to bring one relation to kuwait for an important occassion. will appreicate any feedback., frequently read topics....

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How to apply

Additional changes to entry, testing and quarantine requirements in response to the Omicron variant

There are temporary changes for all travellers, including Canadian citizens, regardless of their vaccination status.

Additional restrictions and requirements now apply to these countries:

• Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe

News release

Changes to border measures

New border measures include

• rules for re-entering Canada, if leaving for 72 hours or less
• who is considered fully vaccinated
• rules for travelling within Canada

Starting January 15, 2022, there will be new rules for who can enter Canada as an unvaccinated or partially vaccinated traveller.

Learn more about the new measures

Venezuelan passport holders

You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application .

If the printed expiry date on your Venezuelan passport has passed

If the printed expiry date has passed and you’re applying for a visitor visa, study permit, work permit or to extend your stay as a temporary resident in Canada, follow these steps:

• Add 5 years to the printed expiry date shown on your passport and enter it in the expiry date field of the application form.
• Include a letter of explanation with your application stating: “I am a Venezuelan national with a Venezuelan passport, which has been extended for 5 years”.

Warning: If your passport is still expired after adding 5 years to the printed expiry date, your passport is considered expired. You’re not eligible to submit an application with that passport.

Prepare documents and apply

The reason you’re traveling to Canada determines the way you apply and the documents you need to submit with your visa application.

Why are you applying for a visitor visa?

• To visit as a tourist
• To visit for business
• To visit your spouse or partner who has sponsored you for permanent residence

What is your family member’s status in Canada?

• Canadian citizen
• Person registered under Canada’s Indian Act
• Canadian permanent resident
• Temporary resident in Canada
• For compassionate reasons
• To join a vessel as a marine crew member (known as a “seafarer”)
• None of the above

Do you plan to visit your children or grandchildren for more than 6 months?

You may be eligible to apply for a Super Visa

A super visa lets you visit your children or grandchildren for 5 years at a time. It’s a visa that provides multiple entries for a period up to 10 years.

Find out how to apply for a Super Visa

Step 1 Gather documents

Gather these documents to submit with your visa application and bring when you travel.

About the documents listed

• Not all documents listed below are required—some are optional.
• This is not an exhaustive list of acceptable proof to support your visa application.
• Only submit the recommended documents that prove you’re eligible for a visa.
• Even if you submit all the documents listed, there is no guarantee that we’ll approve your application.
• We may request more information from you in addition to what is listed here.

Documents we accept:

• passports (regular, official or diplomatic)  from most countries (see exceptions below)
• alien’s passport for stateless persons
• US Permit to Re-Enter (Form I-327)
• US Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571)
• other refugee travel documents for non-citizens

Documents we don’t accept:

• any passport issued by Somalia
• non-machine-readable passports issued by the Czech Republic
• temporary passports issued by the Republic of South Africa
• provisional passports issued by Venezuela

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you’ll use to travel to Canada

If you have a passport, you must provide a copy of

• the page that shows your birth date and country of origin
• any pages with stamps, visas or markings

If you have a travel document, it must be issued by a government and include your

• date of birth
• document number
• citizenship or residency status
• expiry date (if applicable)

Submit this document with your visa application.

Family members or third parties who apply on behalf of the applicant need to complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application.

Each applicant 18 years or older must complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application

Documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend or alone.

You may need to show

• a letter that authorizes the minor child to travel to Canada
• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on if the minor child travels alone or not

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada .

Submit these with your visa application.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada.

If you’ve travelled to Canada or to other countries, this can show that you’ve been able to get a visa in the past.

Proof of this includes copies of previous visas in your passport.

Include a clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• your previous passports and/or visas (used within the last 10 years to travel outside your country)
• entry and exit stamps
• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside of your country
• expired or valid visas

Submit this document with your visa application

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do in Canada

Include copies of any of the following:

• flight details
• hotel reservations
• registration for an event

This can help us understand if you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.

Bank name and contact This allows us to contact your bank or financial institution with questions.

Proof it is your account Your name and address on the statement show that the account is yours.

Account details At least 6 months of account details, including balances, helps us understand your financial situation.

Use this form if you want to allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to release your personal information to someone you choose.

The person you choose will be able to get information on your case file, such as the status of your application.

Business visitor

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada

Submit this with your visa application.

A clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside your country

Copies of any of the following:

A letter from your employer can confirm that you have a stable job and will return to it. It can also show that your employer supports your visit to Canada.

The letter should be printed on your employer’s official letterhead.

The letter should include the following:

• date, no earlier than 3 months before you apply
• confirmation that you have a job with the employer
• your full name and date of birth
• date you started the job
• brief description of your job
• current salary
• contact information of your manager
• phone number
• email address
• employer information
• company name
• state or province
• Your manager or human resources contact should print their name and sign the letter.

A letter from a business or company in Canada

It can confirm that your purpose for visiting Canada is valid.

A copy of the letter from the business or company inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from the business or company.

Consult the details to include in the letter .

Visit your spouse or partner who sponsored you for permanent residence

Proof of your relationship with the person or family member inviting you to Canada

This can include a copy of

• a marriage certificate
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM5409)
• a birth certificate
• an official document naming you as a parent

Each applicant 18 years and older must complete this form.

The documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend, or alone.

• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on whether the minor child travels alone

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada

A letter written by your family member in Canada

A copy of the letter from the family member inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from your family member.
• current Salary

Complete the form that declares you and your partner are in a common-law relationship. Also provide proof that you and your common-law partner have combined your affairs and set up a household together.

What is a common-law partner?

Proof can include

• joint bank accounts or credit cards
• joint ownership of a home
• joint residential leases
• joint rental receipts
• joint utilities (electricity, gas, telephone)
• joint management of household expenses
• proof of joint purchases, especially for household items
• mail addressed to either person or both people at the same address

Faster visitor visa processing for spousal applicants

If you’re being sponsored for permanent residence (PR) by your spouse or partner, you could benefit from faster processing for a visitor visa.

You may be eligible if you

• submitted an application to be sponsored for permanent residence
• received an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) that confirms the application is in progress

Applications that need more information, for example custody documents for a child, will take longer to process.

When your sponsor receives the AOR for your permanent residence application, you can apply for a visitor visa. If you’re eligible, your visitor visa application will automatically receive faster processing. You don’t need to request it.

You must still meet all of the requirements to be eligible for a visitor visa .

Visit family (Canadian citizen, person registered under Canada’s Indian Act, or permanent resident of Canada)

Submit with visa application

Visit children or grandchildren Super visa option

Submit this with your visa or super visa application.

For super visa applicants only

Proof that medical insurance for at least $100,000 coverage has been purchased from a Canadian insurance company.

A copy of the insurance certificate or policy you received for medical insurance coverage for 1 year with a Canadian insurance company.

Submit this with your super visa application.

Documents that show that the super visa applicant’s child or grandchild meets the low income cut-off minimum.

Submit one of the following documents:

• If the child or grandchild does not have a paper copy of their notice of assessment on file, they can view and print their tax returns as well as other personal tax information using the Canada Revenue Agency My Account online service.
• a copy of the child’s or grandchild’s most recent T4 or T1
• an original letter from the child’s or grandchild’s employer stating their job title, job description and salary
• a letter from an accountant confirming the child’s or grandchild’s annual income, if they are self-employed.
• proof of other sources of income (pension statement, investments, etc.)

A document confirming that you had an  immigration medical exam (IME)

The exam must conducted by a panel physician authorized by IRCC.

Get complete details about how to get a medical exam with a panel physician.

Submit this with your super visa application, or wait for instructions from the visa office.

Visit family (temporary resident of Canada)

A letter written by your family in Canada

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do once in Canada

Visit for compassionate reasons

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada

A letter written to you from a person or business inviting you to Canada

A copy of the letter from the person or business inviting you to Canada

• registration for an event.

Please indicate clearly if family members will accompany you to Canada.

Submit the following documents with your visa application:

• digital copy of Seaman’s Book
• digital copy of a signed Letter of Invitation from a ship or port agent in Canada
• digital copy of an Introduction Letter from recruiter shipping agency or vessel owner
• digital copy of the employment contract

Step 2 Apply through the IRCC Portal

Step 2 apply.

To apply for a visitor visa to visit Canada on business, you need to qualify as a business visitor.

To qualify, you must show that:

• you plan to stay for less than 6 months
• you don’t plan to enter the Canadian labour market
• your main place of business and source of income and profits is outside Canada

Business visitor activities include business meetings, special events or training for a few days or weeks.

If your meeting, event or conference is registered with us, include the event code in your application. You should get this code from the organizer.

Note: If you plan to stay for more than 6 months, or if you plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to  apply for a work permit .

To apply online, you need a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and a valid credit or debit card.

Read the instruction guide before you complete your application. As an online applicant, you can ignore steps 3 and 4 of the guide (paying the fees and submitting your application).

If you’re applying for the first time , you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Apply through the IRCC Secure account

Sign in to your IRCC secure account

Apply through the IRCC Portal

Only for tourists, visiting for business, family visits, compassionate reasons

Sign in to the IRCC portal

To apply for a visitor visa to join a vessel as a marine crew member (seafarer) , you must

• be travelling to Canada to join a ship’s crew
• hold a seafarer’s identity document
• hold a valid passport or travel document
• have proof of employment on a vessel at a Canadian port

As a seafarer, you’re not eligible for a transit visa and you must apply for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa).

Note: When asked to “Tell us more about what you’ll do in Canada”, include “Join vessel” or “Seafarer”.

Register to the IRCC portal

Applying on paper for specific situations

If you need a visitor visa to travel to Canada, you must apply online for one. Only online applications will be accepted and processed. However, you can apply on paper if:

• you can’t apply online because of a disability or
• you’re travelling with an identity or travel document that was issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen

The application package includes an instruction guide and all the forms you need to fill out.

Read the guide carefully before you complete your application . We will not refund your application fee, so make sure you need a visitor visa before you apply.

Each individual applicant must submit a completed application form. Applicants under the age of 18 must have this form signed by a parent or a guardian.

Download the application package .

Pay your application fees

In most cases, your fees will include processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application.

If you’re applying for the first time, you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Third-party fees

Depending on your situation, you may need to pay third parties for

• your medical exam
• a police certificate

Our instruction guides (opens in a new tab) can help you understand which fees apply to you.

Submit your application

Families should send their individual applications in one package. The principal applicant must send this combined package to the location where their application will be processed.

Select the country/territory you’ll be applying from to find out where to submit your application. You can choose your country of nationality or the country or territory where you have been legally admitted:

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• China (People’s Republic of)
• Comoros Island
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Hong Kong SAR
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia (Federated States of)
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia (Republic of)
• Palestinian Authority (Gaza)
• Palestinian Authority (West Bank)
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• US Virgin Islands

If you need to give biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), and you’re applying on paper, submit your application in person . VAC staff will check that it is complete and will confirm that you have paid the correct fees before you can give your biometrics.

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept the following credit cards and prepaid cards:

• MasterCard ®
• American Express ®
• UnionPay ® (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for at least 18 months after you pay to make refunds easier. Find more on prepaid cards .

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.

The card you use doesn’t have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

• be from a Canadian bank using INTERAC ® Online
• be registered for online banking through your bank’s website

We also accept all Debit MasterCard ® and Visa ® Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC ® Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

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