Drug-free Tests For All New Expats And Some Residents In Kuwait

As part of a package of proposals that the ministry is working on to combat the scourge of drugs, limit its spread in the country, and dry up its sources, Al-Seyassah daily reports, the Ministry of Interior is working with the Ministry of Health to conduct a "drug-free test" for adult expatriates.

An initial acceptance of the concept was obtained from the Council of Ministers after it was presented by a team consisting of security experts and health officials. According to security sources, the concept includes the establishment of health centers specializing in performing drug-free tests in coordination with the Criminal Evidence Department.

Visa issuance will be linked to a negative drug test result, whether for work, visit, or family reunion. This test will be added to the regular medical tests required for newly arrived expatriates and some categories of residents upon renewal of their residence permits.

When applying for residency renewal, the resident must undergo the test and submit the result along with the rest of the requirements.

Along with allocating specialized medical and security staff, the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Health are looking for centers that are equipped for this purpose, similar to the biometric centers.

An expatriate who fails the test and is found to have taken drugs will be deported immediately, and his residency will not be renewed.

There will be no complacency with anyone who fails to implement the decision, according to the sources. Whoever fails to follow the procedure will expose himself to accountability.”

They added that the test centers would be linked electronically to the residence affairs departments in the governorates.

After completing the necessary research and discussions about the new vision, the sources said, preparations for its implementation would begin as soon as the Ministry of Interior completed its biometric file for citizens and expats.

First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Acting Minister of Defense Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled's proposal was welcomed by the Council of Ministers, and it was requested that it be thoroughly examined from all angles.

In response to the need to amend some legal laws that require the approval of the National Assembly, the sources indicated that the proposal would be among the government's priorities during the 17th legislative term of parliament, which begins on June 6, following the elections.

 

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