News DeskDubai, UAE – Millions of expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can now travel to Kuwait with ease, thanks to a new visa-on-arrival policy announced by the Ministry of Interior.
The update, published in the official Kuwait Alyoum gazette and effective immediately, allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Kuwait without prior online applications or embassy approval. The move replaces rules in place since 2008 and is part of Ministerial Resolution No. 1386 of 2025.
Announcing the change, First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah said the measure aligns Kuwait’s entry rules with broader Gulf travel trends, aiming to encourage tourism and short-term visits.
Eligibility
The visa-on-arrival is open to citizens of any country who:
- Hold a valid passport
- Possess a valid GCC residency permit with at least six months remaining before expiry
Eligible GCC countries include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain. Travellers can obtain the visa directly at airports or land border crossings by presenting the required documents. The visa is granted for tourism purposes.
Impact
The change is expected to benefit expatriates from nations such as India, Pakistan, the Philippines and Egypt, as well as business travellers and weekend tourists from neighbouring Gulf cities.
The new system complements Kuwait’s broader visa reforms, which include launching an e-visa platform, removing the university degree requirement for certain visas, extending visit visa validity, and lifting airline restrictions. These measures are part of Kuwait’s strategy to position itself as a more accessible and attractive travel destination.
