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Updated January 2024

Overseas Filipino Workers, commonly referred to as OFWs, are Filipino nationals who are currently working abroad. They can be people from different walks of life involved in a range of work, from construction workers to professional doctors.

Here is everything you need to know about OFWs in Kuwait

Important note: According to the latest report in May 2023, Kuwait has suspended all types of work and entry visas for Filipinos effective May 10 on the instructions of Interior Minister Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. The reason for this action is the Philippines’ alleged violation of the 2018 bilateral labor agreement signed by both countries in May 2018. The status of visa issuance remains unclear as both countries are reviewing their labor pact.

OFW Kuwait latest news 2024

Recent talks between Philippine and Kuwaiti officials have sparked optimism within the local recruitment industry regarding the potential resumption of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) deployment to Kuwait by the first quarter of 2024. Migration expert Manny Geslani indicated that discussions primarily centred on the OFW deployment suspension and the role of welfare centres.

Anticipating a new agreement before March, the recruitment sector envisions deploying approximately 30,000 household service workers (HSWs) to Kuwait once the suspension is lifted. Collaborative efforts are underway to establish a “white list” of qualified agencies, with representatives from Philippine Agencies Accredited to Kuwait working alongside counterparts from foreign recruitment agencies.

The suspension last year followed the tragic killing of Filipino helper Jullebee Ranara, prompting the Philippine government to suspend the deployment of HSWs to Kuwait. In response, Kuwait imposed a ban on all Filipino migrants, except those holding resident visas. With around 280,000 OFWs in Kuwait, the ongoing discussions aim to address concerns and ensure the well-being of Filipino workers in the country.

OFW Kuwait salary

The majority of OFWs choose to work in Middle Eastern countries, especially Kuwait, because of the country’s higher pay, the lower placement fee charged by the agencies to applicants, the easier application process and no taxes imposed on the applicants.

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The domestic helpers in Kuwait earn salaries not lower than the minimum prescribed by the government of Kuwait. The minimum monthly salary of a domestic helper in Kuwait ranges from KD 110 to KD 120 (PHP 17,000 to PHP 20,000).

 

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