Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has announced that foreign residents holding valid residency permits are not permitted to stay outside the country for more than six months. The new rule applies to all residency categories, with exceptions granted to specific groups, including children of Kuwaiti mothers, property owners, and foreign investors. For domestic workers under Article 20, the maximum allowable absence is reduced to four months, unless the sponsor formally requests a leave of absence through the Residency Affairs Department or the “Sahel” application.
The regulation aims to ensure that residency permits are actively used by individuals who genuinely live and contribute in Kuwait. By setting clear limits on continuous stay abroad, authorities seek to prevent misuse of residency rights and maintain accurate population records. The ministry’s move is part of broader efforts to regulate the expatriate community and align residency policies with national demographic and economic objectives.
Domestic workers are subject to a stricter four-month limit, but sponsors can extend this period by officially applying for a leave of absence. This provision offers flexibility for families whose domestic staff may need to travel for longer periods due to emergencies or personal reasons, provided the sponsor follows the designated procedural channels.
The announcement underscores Kuwait’s ongoing adjustments to its residency and labor policies, balancing control over the foreign population with the need to attract investors and protect certain family ties. Residents are advised to plan international travel carefully and ensure compliance with the updated absence limits to avoid jeopardizing their legal status in the country.
