Kuwait Opens Visa-on-Arrival to All GCC Foreign Residents

Kuwait has introduced a new visa-on-arrival policy for all foreign residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah announced the decision on Sunday. The policy took effect immediately after publication in the official gazette, Kuwait Al-Youm. This move aims to make travel to Kuwait easier for millions of GCC residents. It applies at all entry points, including airports, seaports, and land borders.

Under the new rule, eligible visitors can receive a tourist visa upon arrival in Kuwait. The visa will be valid for 90 days from the date of entry. Applicants must hold a valid residency permit from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, or Bahrain. The residency must be valid for at least six months. This requirement ensures that applicants have stable legal status in their home GCC country.

Previously, Kuwait’s visa-on-arrival was restricted to specific professional categories. The 2008 regulation allowed only doctors, engineers, executives, and similar professionals to apply. The new policy removes all job-based restrictions. Now, any GCC resident meeting the residency criteria can enjoy easier access. This change represents a major shift in Kuwait’s travel policy.

Officials say the decision could benefit around 25 million foreign residents across GCC countries. Many of these residents travel frequently within the region for business and tourism. The new policy will boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Kuwait and its neighbors. It may also encourage more weekend visits and short-term trips. The move is expected to strengthen Kuwait’s role as a regional hub.

Kuwait already offers visa-on-arrival to nationals from many countries worldwide. These include European nations, the United States, Canada, and several Latin American countries. The privilege also extends to major Asian economies like China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Adding GCC foreign residents to this list greatly expands the pool of eligible travelers.