European, Gulf nationals can now transit through Kuwait for 7 days
New visa enables short-term transit from Iraq or via Iran
DUBAI: Kuwait has officially approved the issuance of seven-day transit visas for a select group of non-resident travellers entering the country by land, as part of new efforts to enhance mobility and border efficiency.
The move, directed by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al Yousef in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, targets Gulf citizens, residents of GCC countries, European nationals, and diplomatic personnel.
Colonel Waleed Al Azmi, Director of the Abdali Border Crossing Administration, announced the measure on Kuwait TV’s Al Akhbar, outlining the plan to ease overland travel from Iraq and Iran. The visa allows travellers to stay in Kuwait for up to seven days and transit between Abdali Port and Kuwait International Airport – or vice versa – while managing logistics or onward travel plans.
Eligibility and conditions
The visa is limited to non-residents of Kuwait and granted under specific agreements between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is applicable only to those arriving from Iraq or transiting through Iran, and offers a short window for eligible travellers to complete their journeys through Kuwait’s borders.
Special provisions also apply to diplomatic staff and embassy representatives, who are permitted to assist their nationals during entry and exit procedures. Interior Ministry personnel stationed at the Abdali border have been tasked with implementing the approved exemptions efficiently.
Operational measures in place
The new directive includes clear instructions for streamlined entry, ensuring flexibility while maintaining security standards. Colonel Al Azmi confirmed that teams on the ground are applying exceptions professionally, especially for those meeting humanitarian or diplomatic criteria.