Kuwait Introduces Three-Month Family Visit Visa with Major Reforms

Kuwait has announced a new policy allowing three-month family visit visas as part of a series of reforms aimed at boosting tourism and easing travel procedures. The decision is expected to significantly simplify the visa application process and broaden eligibility criteria for family members.

According to Gulf News, the announcement was confirmed by Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, during a phone conversation with journalist Ahmed Al-Jarallah, editor-in-chief of Al-Seyassah newspaper.

Under the new policy, visitors will initially be granted a visa for a period of three months. Depending on compliance with visa regulations and other formalities, the stay may be extended to six months or even one year. This move is seen as part of Kuwait’s broader efforts under its Vision 2035 plan, which aims to strengthen the country’s position as a regional hub for tourism and commerce.

Significant changes have also been made to the requirements for obtaining the visa. The previously mandatory condition of holding a university degree has been scrapped. Additionally, travelers are no longer required to use Kuwait Airways exclusively, allowing them to fly with any airline.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of the reform is the expansion of eligible family members. Previously limited to spouses and children, the family visit visa can now be applied for siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces.

Sheikh Fahad also emphasized the implementation of real-time notifications for applicants flagged under security concerns. In such cases, individuals will be immediately informed via the immigration system and will be required to resolve the issues independently through legal or diplomatic channels.

The entire visa application process has now been shifted online through the newly updated ‘Kuwait Visa’ platform, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates. While the new system is already in effect, the revised visa fee structure is still under review and awaits final approval from the Kuwaiti cabinet.

These developments come as part of Kuwait’s ongoing digital transformation and efforts to make the country more accessible for short-term visitors and families.