New Travel Rules For Expats: Exit Permit Now Required

 In a major policy shift aimed at enhancing labor market transparency and curbing irregular practices, the Kuwaiti government will require all expatriate workers in the private sector to obtain an official exit permit before leaving the country, starting July 1.

New Labor Policy to Enhance Oversight and Protect Rights

This new mandate, which aligns with similar requirements for public sector employees, was announced through a ministerial circular issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef. The initiative is designed to safeguard the rights of both employers and workers while ensuring tighter oversight over labor movement.

According to the Public Authority for Manpower, the regulation will apply to all private sector expatriates holding residency under Article 18.

Digital Process for Exit Permit Applications

To streamline the process, workers must submit a digital application form specifying their personal information and intended travel date. Applications are to be submitted through:

• The Sahel App for individuals
• The Ash’al Manpower Portal for businesses and employers

Employers can approve requests through the “Sahel Business” interface or via the Ash’al portal. The process is active 24/7, and once approved by the employer, the exit permit is issued instantly with no further formalities.

Special Cases and Emergency Scenarios

In scenarios where workers do not have access to digital platforms — especially among unskilled laborers — employers can file applications on their behalf. This ensures inclusivity and accessibility across all labor categories.

Measures to Prevent Abuse and Ensure Accountability

To address concerns about potential employer misuse or unjust travel denials, the Public Authority for Manpower has set up a complaint mechanism. Workers can report incidents where exit permits are denied without valid justification. The authority will take appropriate steps to resolve such disputes.

The regulation also aims to tackle issues such as visa trading and irregularities in Kuwait’s labor market by enhancing the verification of employer-employee relationships through a centralized and transparent digital database.

Strengthening Kuwait’s Labor Governance Framework

Officials emphasized that this new measure is a part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to improving labor governance, reducing illegal recruitment practices, and fostering a safe, regulated, and accountable labor ecosystem.

The new exit permit requirement is expected to reduce unauthorized departures and reinforce the legal rights of all parties involved.