Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) has confirmed the enforcement of significant fines under the new residency law, which includes penalties for failing to register newborns and obtain residence permits on time.

Under the updated residency law, failure to register a newborn within the legally defined period can result in a fine of up to KD 2,000, emphasizing the government’s commitment to accurate and timely registration of residents and dependents. The law has come into effect as of Dec 23, according to local news reports.

The Ministry’s executive regulations under Article 9, state foreigners entering Kuwait on visas — including government, private sector employment, family reunification, study, temporary contracts, commerce, or medical treatment — are required to secure a residence permit within the legally specified period.

Failure to do so triggers fines as follows:

• KD 2 per day for each day of delay during the first month
• KD 4 per day for each day after the first month
• Maximum total fine capped at KD 1,200

For domestic workers who enter Kuwait with an entry visa but do not complete their residency formalities, the fines are similar, though the maximum is KD 600.

These measures are part of the Ministry’s broader initiative to strengthen governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that residency regulations are fully observed and administrative processes remain effective.