Kuwait has introduced a new foreign residency law, overhauling a system in place for more than 60 years.

According to details, issued by Amiri decree on November 28, the law aims to modernise the country’s immigration policies and address long-standing issues, such as visa trading and the treatment of migrant workers.

A key provision of the law grants a ten-year residency for the children of Kuwaiti women, renewable without fees, provided they do not acquire Kuwaiti citizenship. These children will retain their residency even if outside Kuwait for medical or educational purposes for more than six months.

The law also targets visa trading and exploitation, imposing strict penalties on individuals who facilitate entry, residence, or visa renewals in exchange for money. Employers now face restrictions, including a ban on employing expatriates for purposes other than their original recruitment, and ensuring workers are not employed without the proper authorisation.

Family visit visas will now be extended to three months, with fees set by the Ministry of Interior. Additionally, the waiting period for bringing in new domestic workers has been reduced from six months to four months after the previous worker’s departure.

The law strengthens measures against human trafficking and exploitation, with violators facing fines and imprisonment. Public employees involved in illegal activities face even heavier penalties.

The law will take effect within six months, part of Kuwait’s broader effort to modernise its residency system. Major General Ali Al Adwani, Assistant Undersecretary for Residency and Citizenship Affairs, confirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability while ensuring fair treatment for all residents.

The new law also includes provisions for digital transformation, with updates to the Kuwait Visa website designed to streamline residency applications and improve efficiency.