Kuwait Revises Residency Visa Renewal Rules: Expats Over 60 Can Transfer Residence Permits to Private Sector

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The Public Manpower Authority of Kuwait has recently announced that it would be revising the rules for residency visa renewal. As part of its ongoing efforts to reform its visa process, Kuwait has implemented several changes to its policies in recent years.

One of the latest amendments will allow expats aged 60 and above with only a higher secondary degree or lower to transfer their residence to the private sector. Previously, there was a blanket ban on residency renewal for this group, but since 2022, they have been allowed to renew their residence permits for an annual fee of KWD 250 plus an insurance plan.

Additionally, the new rules will enable expats working in government jobs and state-owned agencies and departments, as well as expats on dependent visas and investors or partners in commercial or industrial activities, to transfer their residence permits to the private sector. Expats over the age of 60 with a self-sponsored residency will also be eligible for this transfer.

Overall, these reforms represent a significant step forward for Kuwait’s visa process, which has been undergoing long-term revision to better serve the needs of expats and businesses operating in the country.