Kuwait Ends Automatic Visa and Leave Permit Extensions
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior (MOI) has officially announced the termination of automatic extensions for visit visas and absence permits. These extensions were originally granted as an emergency measure following the closure of Kuwaiti airspace during the US-Iran conflict in February 2026.
Starting September 1, 2026, the country will revert to standard legal validity periods for all permits. This change means that the expiration date printed on a visa stamp will now serve as the sole binding date for travelers and residents.
Important Rules for Article-18 Residents
For Article-18 residents currently residing abroad, standard expiration rules for leave or absence permits will now strictly apply. The Ministry has clarified the following regarding the transition:
- Exemptions: Residents who departed Kuwait on or before August 31, 2026, are exempt from these new restrictions, provided their status is correctly documented on the 'Residency Permit Status Certificate' within the Sahel application.
- New Departures: Any individual departing Kuwait on or after September 1, 2026, will not be entitled to any additional grace days.
The authorities have emphasized that the Residency Permit Status Certificate found on the Sahel app is the only official reference for residency expiration. Residents are warned not to rely on unofficial information regarding their legal status.
Warnings for Expatriate Workers
The Ministry has issued a specific warning to workers from several nations, including India, Nepal, the Philippines, and Egypt. Failure to comply with the new timelines could lead to serious consequences upon attempting to return to the country, such as:
- Automatic residency cancellation
- Denial of entry at the border
- Heavy fines imposed at the airport
Strict Residency and Exit Regulations
Expatriates must also remain compliant with existing regulations that have been in place since late 2025. These rules dictate how long a resident can remain outside the country before their residency is revoked:
- Private-sector employees: Residency is automatically cancelled if the individual remains outside Kuwait for more than six months.
- Domestic workers: Residency is revoked if the worker stays abroad for more than four months.
Additionally, since July 2025, all private-sector employees are required to secure a digital exit permit via the Sahel or Ashal systems for every foreign trip. While domestic workers and dependents are generally exempt from this specific requirement, all travelers should ensure their documentation is in order.
How to Avoid Re-entry Complications
To ensure a seamless return to Kuwait, travelers are strongly advised to use the Sahel app to settle any outstanding traffic fines or overstay penalties before they arrive. Clearing these debts in advance is the best way to avoid complications with immigration officials at the airport.