Kuwait reboots eVisa system with new rules for GCC residents: Key info for travellers

Time of India

a day ago

Streamlined eVisa process aims to attract GCC-based travellers and boost regional tourism/Representative Image
TL;DR:
Kuwait reopened its improved e‑Visa portal in January 2025, allowing certain GCC‑based residents to apply online or obtain visa‑on‑arrival.
Eligible applicants must hold a
GCC
residency of 6+ months, a valid passport, and work in specified professional categories such as doctors, engineers, teachers, journalists, and business managers.
Excluded nationals must apply via diplomatic channels.
E‑visa costs start at 3 KWD ($10), processed within 1–3 business days, valid for 90 days, and grants up to 30‑day stays.
What's Changed: Platform Reopened, Rules Streamlined
After a temporary suspension in December 2024 for system upgrades, Kuwait relaunched its Kuwait Visa portal in early 2025. The upgraded system offers digitally streamlined e‑Visa applications, specifically for residents residing in the GCC.
This move is part of Kuwait's broader initiative to modernize immigration procedures, promote regional travel, and boost transparency while preserving national security standards.
Who Qualifies?
Application criteria for GCC expats include:
Residency permit in GCC (UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain) valid for at least 6 months.
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date.
Profession listed on Emirates ID (or equivalent GCC ID) must match an approved category like doctor, engineer, teacher, journalist, business manager, etc.
Clean legal and immigration record.
Excluded nationalities must apply via Kuwaiti missions.
Application Steps & Documents
Applicants must:
Visit official Kuwait Visa Registration website, select GCC resident/tourist e‑Visa option.
Create an account with email, phone number, and secure password.
Upload supporting documents: Passport bio page, GCC residency page, recent passport photo, proof of accommodation or hotel booking, and return ticket.
Enter professional occupation as listed on GCC residence ID.
Pay the 3 KWD fee ($10)) online.
Track the application, approval typically takes 1–3 business days.
Present a printed copy of the e‑Visa upon arrival in Kuwait for immigration clearance.
Once issued, the e‑Visa is valid for 90 days and allows an entry stay of up to 30 days.
Visa on Arrival Option
Eligible GCC residents may also opt for a visa on arrival, depending on airline discretion.
Airlines like Emirates and Jazeera Air have approved boarding passengers with valid GCC visas and matching professional categories, though Kuwait Airways may apply stricter rules.
Context: Bigger Picture and Updates
This updated access aligns with Kuwait's broader regional strategy, including the upcoming rollout of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa ('GCC Grand Tours Visa') expected later in 2025 or early 2026. This single-entry visa will cover travel across all six GCC nations for tourism purposes.
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Undo
Kuwait also continues to maintain strict penalties for overstaying or improper use of visas, with fines up to KD 2,000 and potential bans for violations.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has been witnessing a rapid shift in travel policies as member states strive to boost regional tourism and economic integration. While countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have introduced long-term tourism and business visas to attract global talent and visitors, Kuwait has traditionally maintained stricter entry protocols.
However, with the implementation of Vision 2035, Kuwait's national development roadmap, authorities are now actively modernizing administrative systems, including the digitization of immigration services.
The simplified eVisa program is part of these reforms, aiming to make the country more accessible to GCC-based expatriates and regional tourists
Why It Matters
Greater accessibility
: GCC residents in professions like medicine, education, journalism, or management can now apply directly from their host country.
Speed & simplicity
: Digital approvals in under 3 days improve travel flexibility.
Tourism boost
: Eases access for regional business and leisure travellers.
Fair but firm policy
: Eligibility rules and exclusions help balance openness with legal and security standards.
Kuwait's revamped e‑Visa system for GCC residents marks a significant step in simplifying regional travel, particularly for qualified professionals who live and work in the GCC nations. With clear eligibility criteria, affordable fees, rapid turnaround, and visa-on-arrival options, the process is now more inclusive and efficient. It reflects Kuwait's growing commitment to modernizing immigration systems, facilitating regional mobility without compromising on compliance and security.