Kuwait Eases Family Visit Visa Requirements. Kuwait has announced a major change to its family visit visa policy, making it easier for expatriates to invite their relatives. The government has officially removed the minimum income requirement that previously limited who could sponsor family members for short-term visits.
This reform reflects Kuwait’s broader goal of promoting openness, reducing administrative barriers, and strengthening family and social connections for foreign residents.
Kuwait Removes Minimum Income Requirement for Family Visit Visas
According to officials from the General Residency Department, the long-standing salary threshold for sponsoring family visit visas has been abolished.
Col. Abdulaziz Al Kandari, from the department’s Electronic Services Administration, confirmed that any legal resident in Kuwait can now apply for a family visit visa, regardless of monthly income.
Previously, expatriates had to meet a fixed salary requirement before inviting relatives. This rule excluded many low- and middle-income workers. The new policy removes that barrier entirely.
Who Can Apply Under the New Kuwait Family Visit Visa Rules?
Under the updated system, eligibility has expanded significantly.
Key Changes in Eligibility
- Any legal expatriate resident in Kuwait can sponsor family visits
- No minimum salary or income proof required
- Applications are open to residents across all professions
This change benefits thousands of workers in sectors such as construction, services, healthcare, and domestic employment.
Expanded List of Eligible Family Members
The reforms also widen the definition of who qualifies as “family.”
Now Allowed Relatives Include
- Relatives up to the fourth degree of kinship
- In-laws up to the third degree
- Extended family members beyond immediate relatives
Earlier rules mainly focused on close family such as parents, spouses, and children. The new approach recognises broader family structures common in many cultures.
National Airline Requirement Officially Removed
Another major change involves travel restrictions.
Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al Yousuf directed authorities to remove the rule that required visitors to enter Kuwait only via the national carrier.
What This Means Now
- Visitors can enter by air, land, or sea
- Any international airline can be used
- No restriction on transport provider
This change reduces travel costs and offers more flexibility for families planning visits.
Why Kuwait Introduced These Visa Reforms
Officials explained that the updated entry rules aim to modernize Kuwait’s residency and visa framework.
Main Objectives Behind the Decision
- Simplify visa procedures
- Strengthen family and social ties
- Improve resident satisfaction
- Promote a more open and accessible system
Col. Abdulaziz Al Kandari emphasized that the reforms are designed to make life easier for residents while maintaining legal and security standards.
Impact on Expatriates Living in Kuwait
These changes are expected to have a strong positive effect on expatriate communities.
Benefits for Residents
- Easier family reunions
- Lower financial pressure
- More inclusive immigration policies
- Improved quality of life
Workers who previously could not meet income requirements can now host parents, siblings, and extended relatives for short visits.
How to Apply for a Kuwait Family Visit Visa After the Changes
While the income condition is removed, standard application procedures still apply.
General Application Process
- Log in to Kuwait’s official residency or visa platform
- Submit visitor details and relationship information
- Upload required documents
- Await approval from immigration authorities
Applicants must still ensure that all documents are valid and accurate.
What Has Not Changed
Despite the relaxed rules, some requirements remain in place.
Still Required
- Valid residency permit for the sponsor
- Legal passport and travel documents for visitors
- Compliance with Kuwait’s immigration laws
The reforms focus on accessibility, not the removal of legal safeguards.
Regional and Economic Significance
Kuwait’s decision aligns with a wider regional trend where Gulf countries are updating visa systems to attract talent and retain foreign workers.
By allowing easier family visits, Kuwait improves its image as a welcoming destination for long-term expatriates and skilled professionals.
FAQs Kuwait Eases Family Visit Visa Requirements in Major Reform
Is the minimum salary requirement completely removed?
Yes. Legal residents no longer need to meet a salary threshold to apply.
Who can be invited on a family visit visa?
Relatives up to the fourth degree and in-laws up to the third degree.
Is Kuwait Airways still mandatory for entry?
No. Visitors can travel using any airline or enter by land or sea.
Does this apply to all expatriates in Kuwait?
Yes, as long as the sponsor holds legal residency.
When did the new rules take effect?
The reforms were confirmed by officials in August 2025 and are now active.
Conclusion
Kuwait’s decision to ease family visit visa requirements marks a significant shift toward more inclusive and resident-friendly immigration policies. By removing income restrictions, expanding eligible relatives, and lifting airline limitations, the country has taken clear steps to strengthen family unity and social stability.
