Residency Law Waiting For Approval

The Kuwaiti government has reached the final stages of amending its foreigners residency law, with the changes awaiting review by the parliamentary interior and defense committee, as per a report by the Kuwait Times.

The comprehensive amendments target various aspects, aiming to combat iqama trade, regulate foreigners' entry, and streamline deportation procedures. Notably, one of the key provisions necessitates that all hotels and aparthotels report the residency details of foreigners to the relevant authorities.

A ministerial decision will soon outline the fees associated with residency permits, renewals, and entry visas. In a significant move to curb iqama trade, penalties have been established, ranging from up to 3 years in jail to fines ranging between KD 5,000 and KD 10,000.

For domestic helpers, if their permit is canceled upon leaving a job, they are required to leave Kuwait within the stipulated timeframe unless they secure a new residency. The transfer of a domestic helper's permit necessitates employer approval, and an absence from Kuwait exceeding four months is prohibited without prior permission from the interior ministry.

Under the proposed law, the interior minister gains authority to deport foreigners, even those with residency permits. Deportation can be justified on grounds of public interest, general security, public morality, or the absence of a legal source of income.

Comments Post Comment

Leave a Comment

Submit