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Kuwait broadens e-visa access for GCC expatriates, excludes Pakistan and others

Kuwait e-visa application is fully online and is usually processed within 1 to 3 business days
Published 05 May, 2025 02:54pm
An aerial view shows very little traffic on the roads of Kuwait City after the country entered virtual lockdown, following the outbreak of coronavirus, in Kuwait City, Kuwait March 16, 2020. Picture taken with a drone. Reuters
An aerial view shows very little traffic on the roads of Kuwait City after the country entered virtual lockdown, following the outbreak of coronavirus, in Kuwait City, Kuwait March 16, 2020. Picture taken with a drone. Reuters

Kuwait has revised and expanded the eligibility criteria for its electronic visa (e-visa) system, for expatriates residing in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, however, countries including Pakistan cannot access this opportunity.

Who is not eligible?

  • Kuwait excludes nationals from several countries from the e-visa system.

  • Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen are not eligible for the e-visa.

  • These nationals must apply in person at a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate in their GCC country of residence.

What are some conditions?

According to the updated rules, expatriates living in GCC member states can apply for a Kuwait e-visa if they fulfill certain conditions:

  • They must have held valid residency in a GCC country for more than six months.

  • Their passport must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry into Kuwait.

  • Applicants must work in approved professions such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, teachers, journalists, or business managers.

  • Applicants must maintain a clean legal record to qualify for the Kuwait e-visa.

  • Nationals from 53 countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and various other European and Asian nations, are eligible to receive a visit visa upon arrival at Kuwait International Airport.

What are certain requirements?

Requirements for obtaining a visa on arrival:

  • A valid passport with at least six months of validity

  • A return ticket

  • A registered accommodation address at the visa counter

What is process?

The Kuwait e-visa application is fully online and is usually processed within 1 to 3 business days. Applicants need to upload the following documents:

  • Digital copy of the passport biodata page

  • Proof of valid GCC residency

  • Return ticket

  • Recent passport-sized photo

  • Accommodation details

  • Proof of profession (if applicable)

Once approved, the e-visa will be sent via email. Travelers are required to print and present a copy upon entry.

  • Validity and Stay Duration:

  • e-visa validity: 90 days from the date of issuance

  • Permitted stay: Up to 90 days from the date of entry

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