Work visas
Kuwaiti Work Visa and Residency (Iqama)
The employer-sponsored route that lets a foreign national work and reside in Kuwait under a work permit and residency permit, known as an iqama.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Specific residency durations, work-permit fees, and late-2025 reform figures are not verified here from an official page; confirm with PAM and MOI.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Kuwait government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Work permit (PAM) with residency permit / iqama (MOI)
- Route type
- Employer-sponsored work and residency
- Sponsoring bodies
- Public Authority for Manpower (work permit) and Ministry of Interior (residency)
- System
- Sponsorship (kafala) - status tied to the employer
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a job offer from a Kuwaiti employer
- Workers whose employer will act as sponsor
Requirements
- Employment offer and contract with a licensed Kuwaiti employer
- Work permit approval from the Public Authority for Manpower
- Medical examination and biometrics
- Health insurance and residency stamping through the Ministry of Interior
What you can do
- Work for the sponsoring employer in Kuwait
- Reside in Kuwait for the validity of the iqama
- Sponsor eligible family members for residency (subject to conditions)
How to apply
- Employer obtains work permit approval from PAM
- Entry work visa is issued for the worker
- Worker enters Kuwait and completes medical and biometrics
- Employer finalises residency permit (iqama) at the Ministry of Interior
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.