Discover Friendly: Kuwait Demands QR Codes for Easy Worker Attendance Checks

KUWAIT CITY, August 30, 2026: The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has issued a new directive requiring private-sector companies and establishments to display their electronic attendance policy and an associated QR code at their entrances. This measure aims to facilitate labour inspectors in verifying entry and exit records efficiently during on-site inspections without the need for extensive paperwork or additional system access requests.

• Private-sector companies must display an electronic attendance policy and QR code at entrances.
• Measures help labour inspectors verify entry and exit records without extra paperwork.
• Initiative impacts Indian and other expatriate workers across multiple sectors.

Inspection Purpose and Legal Basis

This advisory, which specifically impacts a large number of Indian and other expatriate workers, ensures that inspectors can scan the QR code to verify compliance regarding attendance, working hours, overtime, and absences. PAM clarified that the directive focuses on employer-side compliance and inspection efficiency, rather than introducing new employee penalties. Under Article 134 of Labour Law No. 6 of 2010, inspectors already possess the authority to enter establishments during working hours to examine employment records.

Worker Records and Dispute Resolution

For workers in various sectors, including contracting firms, restaurants, warehouses, and retail shops, the accuracy of electronic attendance records is vital for resolving disputes concerning salary deductions, overtime claims, and authorised leaves. Employees are advised to maintain personal records, such as shift rosters, attendance screenshots, or supervisor communications, to address potential discrepancies. If an employee identifies errors in their HR portal or salary statements, they are encouraged to submit written correction requests via official channels like email, WhatsApp, or HR tickets, rather than relying solely on verbal complaints.

Employer Responsibilities and Digitalization

Employers are now responsible for ensuring their electronic attendance systems are inspection-ready, with the QR code placed in a prominent, accessible location. Failure to provide consistent data or accessible policy information during an inspection may prompt further verification by authorities. The initiative is part of a broader government effort to digitalize labour inspections, alongside resources like the Kuwait Government Sahel app.