How GCC residents can now get visa-on-arrival in Kuwait
New policy simplifies entry for millions of expatriates across the Gulf
DUBAI: Travelling to Kuwait from the UAE just became easier for millions of expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The Ministry of Interior has introduced a visa-on-arrival policy, allowing eligible residents to enter Kuwait without prior online application or embassy approval. The update, published in the Kuwait Alyoum gazette and effective immediately, replaces older rules from 2008.
The announcement, made by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, aligns Kuwait’s entry rules with wider Gulf travel trends, aiming to boost short-term visits and tourism.
Who qualifies for Kuwait visa-on-arrival?
The visa-on-arrival is open to foreign nationals of any country who meet two simple requirements:
- Hold a valid passport
- Hold a valid GCC residency permit with at least six months before expiry
Eligible GCC countries include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain. Visitors can obtain the visa directly at airports or land border crossings by presenting these documents. The purpose of travel must be tourism.
For UAE residents planning a quick holiday, family visit or short business trip to Kuwait, the visa-on-arrival means fewer formalities and more spontaneous travel. Simply arrive with the required documents and enjoy streamlined entry into the country.
What’s the bigger picture?
This change follows Ministerial Resolution No. 1386 of 2025, which scrapped the older process and brought Kuwait in line with countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia that already extend similar privileges to GCC residents. It is expected to benefit expatriates from countries such as India, Pakistan, the Philippines and Egypt, as well as frequent business travellers and weekend tourists from nearby Gulf cities.
Kuwait has also recently introduced an e-visa platform, removed the university degree requirement for certain visas, extended visit visa validity, and lifted airline restrictions – part of a broader strategy to position itself as a more accessible travel destination.