As with all Gulf states, the movement of foreign workers and the issuing of visas is tightly controlled. It is not possible for people to just arrive in the country and apply for visas there, so it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork in place before you travel.

In order for a foreign national to remain in Kuwait for any length of time they must have a work permit. This will only be issued when a firm offer of employment has been made and a contract of employment has been given to the worker. It is the company who is required to apply for the work permit and who should ensure that all the correct documentation is required.

The employee’s passport must have at least six months left to run and should be accompanied with the relevant birth certificates and marriage certificates if applicable. All workers should also undergo a medical examination before they make their application, to declare that they are in good health and free from any contagious diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases. Once they arrive in Kuwait, they will also need to undergo further and regular medical examinations.

The sponsoring company should be able to advise workers on the minimum requirements, and most firms, particularly those who regularly recruit foreign workers, will have somebody on the staff whose job it is to oversee the whole process. Costs are also usually met by the employer. Once the work permit has been issued an identity card is issued. Workers must carry this card at all times.

A residency visa must be applied for once the work permit has been issued. A certificate of no objection should be obtained from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour. This is then sent to the Ministry of the Interior. Some may be required to leave the country and return with this paperwork. This should also be organised by the sponsoring employer.

Anybody who has an Israeli stamp in their passport will be refused entry to Kuwait. Short term visas of three or six months can be issued for those who need to visit the country for a business trip and there are various charges involved depending upon the length of visa and the reason for the visit.

The Kuwaiti government does not encourage foreign nationals to apply to become citizens and most applications will be rejected, even for those who marry a Kuwaiti national. There are exceptional circumstances in which the Kuwaiti ruler may grant citizenship, but these cases are very rare.