Kuwait introduces E-Visa system for tourism, family, business, government entry

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has launched an upgraded electronic visa system designed to streamline entry procedures and strengthen the country’s appeal as a tourist destination.

During a presentation at the Center for Government Communication, Col. Abdulaziz Al-Kandari, Director of Electronic Services at the Residency Affairs Department, outlined the new system’s features, covering tourist, family, commercial and government visas under the Kuwait Visa platform. Applicants must ensure they have no security restrictions and submit all required documents online.

Tourist Visa Categories

The revamped tourist visa is divided into four groups:

• Strong Passport Holders – Nationals from countries with high safety ratings, requiring passports valid for over six months from entry.
• GCC, Skilled Professionals and Residency Holders – Gulf Cooperation Council citizens, skilled professionals and holders of US, UK or Schengen residencies, also requiring six months’ passport validity and proof of residency.
• All Other Eligible Nationalities (upcoming) – Requires proof of financial capability via recent bank statements, confirmed hotel bookings and an insurance deposit charged to the visitor’s credit card, refundable upon departure if no violations occur.
• Event-Specific Visitors – Issued for local or international events, with requirements determined case-by-case.

Tourist visas are available as single-entry permits (valid for 30 days, up to three months) or multiple-entry permits (three months, six months, or one year), with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit.

Family Visas

Family visa applicants must provide proof of relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates, in Arabic or with a certified Arabic translation.

Business Visas

Issued to individuals invited by Kuwaiti companies or institutions for commercial purposes. Options include single-entry for one month (valid for 30 days) or multiple-entry for three months, six months or one year, each allowing a maximum 30-day stay per visit.

Government Visas

Granted to individuals invited by government entities, with similar single- and multiple-entry options and the same stay limits. All applicants must pay the prescribed fees.

Al-Kandari said the system aims to make the visa process faster, more transparent and more accessible while ensuring compliance with security requirements.