Kuwait visit visa: Step-by-step guide for parents and relatives

The Ministry of Interior (MOI), Kuwait has issued an official notice for visit visas for expatriates to bring their parents and other relatives into the country. This process, aimed at facilitating parents and relatives to visit the country, requires expatriates to meet specific eligibility criteria, submit necessary documents, and follow a set procedure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help navigate the application process for family visit visas.

Eligibility Criteria
To sponsor a visit visa for parents or relatives, expatriates must meet certain requirements. For sponsoring parents, the sponsor should have a minimum monthly salary of KWD 400. For other relatives, the salary requirement rises to KWD 800. Additionally, the sponsor must be employed and provide proof of employment status. Documentation proving the relationship between the sponsor and the visitors is also mandatory.

Required Documents
Applicants will need to provide several documents when applying for a visit visa. These include valid passport copies of both the sponsor and the family members being sponsored. The sponsor must also submit a copy of their Civil ID and a recent salary certificate from their employer. Medical insurance for the visitors, covering the duration of their stay in Kuwait, is a requirement. Proof of round-trip flight tickets and accommodation arrangements must also be provided. An affidavit confirming the relationship between the sponsor and the visitors, attested by the relevant authorities, is another key document in the application process.

Application Process
The application process for a family visit visa involves a series of steps. First, the sponsor must schedule an appointment through the Ministry of Interior’s official website. After the appointment, applicants need to gather all required documents and submit them to the relevant residency affairs department. The sponsor must also pay the applicable visa fees of KWD 3. Once the application is submitted, the sponsor will need to wait for approval from the relevant authorities.

Important Conditions
There are several important conditions that both the sponsor and the visitors must adhere to. The visit visa is typically valid for one month, and visitors must leave the country before the visa expires. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to convert their visit visa into a residency permit. They will also only be able to receive medical treatment in private hospitals and health centers. Overstaying the visa will result in fines and other legal penalties.

Individuals wishing to bring their parents or relatives to Kuwait on a visit visa should ensure they meet all the requirements and follow the proper procedure.

Citizens of 53 countries and GCC countries including Belgium, Hong Kong, South Korea, Ukraine are eligible for a tourist visa on arrival in Kuwait. The main requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return ticket, and details of their residential address in Kuwait. Applying for an e-visa online is recommended to avoid potential complications.

(With inputs from Arab Times)