Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Kuwaiti Visa?
Kuwait’s eVisa initiative aims to streamline travel for expatriates residing in GCC countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. This move enhances regional mobility by allowing eligible expatriates to apply online for a visit visa to Kuwait, ensuring ease and accessibility. Here’s everything you need to know about the eVisa process, eligibility, and conditions.
Who Is Not Eligible for Kuwait eVisa?
Expatriates holding passports from certain countries are not eligible to apply via Kuwait’s eVisa portal. These nationalities include:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Iraq
- Pakistan
- Yemen
Citizens of these countries must apply for a Kuwait visit visa through their nearest Kuwaiti embassy or consulate in their respective GCC country of residence.
Visa on Arrival Eligibility – 53 Countries
Eligible Countries Include:
Citizens of the following 53 countries are eligible for a visa on arrival at Kuwait International Airport:
United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Greece, Ireland, Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican, Iceland, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Bhutan, Poland, Georgia, Ukraine, Slovenia, Estonia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, Serbia, Slovakia, Cambodia, Latvia, Laos, Lithuania, Malta, Croatia, Hungary
Visa on Arrival Conditions:
- Must hold a valid return or onward ticket
- Must not be blacklisted in Kuwait
- Passport must be valid for more than six months
- Must provide accommodation address at the visa counter
- Final entry is subject to immigration approval
Eligibility for GCC Expats Applying for Kuwait eVisa
GCC expatriates who are not eligible for visa on arrival (such as nationals of India, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Lebanon, Nepal, etc.) may still apply online if they meet the following requirements:
1. Valid GCC Residency
Applicant must have a valid residency in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, or Oman.
2. Residency Validity
The residency must be valid for more than six months from the planned date of entry into Kuwait.
3. Passport Validity
Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of intended arrival.
4. Approved Professions
Only expatriates working in approved professions can apply. Eligible professions include:
- Doctor, Lawyer, Engineer, Teacher, Judge
- Consultant, University Teacher, Journalist
- Press & Media Staff, Pilot, System Analyst
- Pharmacist, Programmer, Manager, Businessman
- Diplomatic Corps, Company Owners, Commercial Managers & Representatives
- University Graduates in related professional fields
5. No Legal Restrictions
Applicant must not be blacklisted or have any legal issues that prevent entry into Kuwait.
Required Documents for Kuwait eVisa
- Passport Copy: A clear scan of the biodata page
- GCC Residency Proof: Valid residency permit from a GCC country
- Return Ticket: Confirmed booking for return or onward travel
- Passport-Sized Photo: Recent photo with white background
- Accommodation Details: Hotel reservation or residential address in Kuwait
- Profession Verification: Job ID or employment certificate (if applicable)
How to Apply for Kuwait eVisa
1. Visit the Official Portal
Apply through the official websites: https://evisa.moi.gov.kw or https://kuwaitvisa.moi.gov.kw
2. Complete the Form
Fill in personal and travel details carefully.
3. Upload Documents
Attach all required files as mentioned above.
4. Pay the Fees
Make the payment using a valid debit or credit card.
5. Await Approval
Your application will be reviewed. Notifications will be sent to your email.
6. Receive Your eVisa
Once approved, the eVisa will be emailed. Print a copy to present at immigration.
- Processing Time: 1 to 3 working days
- Visa Validity: 90 days from the date of issue
- Stay Duration: Up to 90 days from the date of entry
Important Reminders
- Ensure your GCC residency and passport remain valid throughout your stay in Kuwait.
- Only individuals in approved professional categories may apply.
- Always comply with Kuwaiti laws and entry regulations during your visit.
- For citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen – eVisa is not available; you must apply via a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate.
To learn more about recent updates on Kuwaiti visa policies and travel regulations, visit our news section regularly.