Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Kuwait. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Kuwait may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences or conventions
• Receive or facilitate training
• Tour a company facility

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Kuwait?

Most nationals require a visa to enter Kuwait to conduct business activities and should obtain a Commercial Visit Visa, also known as a Business Visitor Visa from a Kuwaiti Consulate or Embassy, prior to travel.

Nationals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states do not require a visa to enter Kuwait to conduct business activities.

Nationals from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen are banned from entering Kuwait. Additionally, foreign nationals who have entered Israel and possess an Israeli entry stamp may be denied entry to Kuwait.

Working in Kuwait

What sorts of activities require a work visa?

Most professional activities, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Kuwaiti law, if performed for more than 60 days.

If I am traveling to Kuwait for work, what type of work permit do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Kuwait, and the nature of your work. The most common Kuwaiti work permit is the Work Visa (direct hire work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

Nationals from the GCC member states do not require a work permit to work in Kuwait. Registrations or other formalities may be required for these nationals to work and or reside in Kuwait.

According to Article 17 of Kuwaiti labor law, foreigners working in a government-sector entity may be exempt from work permit requirements.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization entail careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.