Kuwait Simplifies Residency Transfers for Expats Between Public and Private Sectors

  • 03/03/2025

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has introduced a major reform that simplifies residency transfers for expatriates moving between the government and private sectors. Previously, expats had to ensure their new job role aligned with their educational qualifications or previous work experience. With the new decision, these requirements have been abolished, making the transition between Article 17 (government sector) and Article 18 (private sector) visas much easier.

Under the revised regulations, expatriates are no longer required to justify their profession change based on academic credentials or prior job nature. The General Administration of Residency Affairs will no longer verify these factors, allowing for a smoother process. This move eliminates bureaucratic hurdles and provides expatriates with greater flexibility in seeking employment across different sectors.

This reform is expected to enhance workforce mobility and attract more skilled professionals to Kuwait’s labor market. By removing unnecessary restrictions, the private sector can now access a broader talent pool that was previously limited to government roles. The decision is part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to modernize labor policies, streamline administrative processes, and boost economic competitiveness.

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