'Sea Captain's License' now available via ‘My Identity' app: MoI
KUWAIT CITY, May 3: The General Directorate of Coast Guard at the Ministry of Interior announced on Friday that the 'Sea Captain's License' is now available electronically via the 'My Identity' application.
In a statement, the ministry said the move is part of ongoing efforts to advance digital transformation and promote integration across government services. The initiative aims to streamline procedures, minimize paperwork, and save time and effort for users.
The ministry urged all relevant users to access the 'My Identity' app to view license details and complete the necessary steps easily. It also reaffirmed its commitment to further developing maritime services and enhancing operational efficiency in line with the state's vision for a smart, modern government.
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Absconding Accusations in Kuwait? Know Your Legal Rights Now
For many expatriates arriving in Kuwait for the first time, unfamiliarity with local labor laws can lead to serious legal trouble. Misguided by poor advice or driven by the hope of earning higher wages, some expats abandon their original sponsors to work illegally for others, often unknowingly committing what is legally considered "absconding." On the other hand, not all absconding cases stem from actual wrongdoing by the worker. Sometimes, certain company owners or expatriate managers misuse their authority and file false absconding reports to intimidate or retaliate against employees. Even more concerning is the growing problem of visa trading, where brokers sell work permits to unsuspecting expats and later file absconding cases in bad faith to free up visa quotas for further illegal sale. Whether due to misinformation or exploitation, absconding cases can have severe consequences. This article offers a detailed legal breakdown of when a case can be filed and how workers can defend themselves and seek justice under Kuwait's labor laws. 1. Filing an Absconding Case: Legal Authority and Process A. Private Sector Employees (Article 18 Residency Holders) Legal Basis: Under Kuwaiti labor law, employers can file an absconding report if a worker fails to report to duty for seven (7) consecutive days without valid cause or prior approval. 1. Timeframe for Reporting: - The employer must submit an official absence (absconding) report to the Ministry of Interior (MOI) within fifteen (15) days from the first day of the worker's unnotified absence. - This absence is legally interpreted as 'implied resignation' and provides sufficient grounds for initiating absconding procedures. 2. Posting Notice: - As stipulated in Article 49 of the Kuwait Labor Law, the employer is mandated to display a copy of the absconding notice in a prominent location at the worksite until the matter is resolved - This step ensures that due process is maintained, and the employee is informed of the action taken B. Domestic Workers (Article 20 Residency Holders) Filing Procedure: 1. Initiation: - Household sponsors must report the unauthorized departure of a domestic worker within two (2) weeks to the Ministry of Interior. - Supporting documents such as the employment contract and civil ID copy should be attached. 2. Recruitment Office Responsibility: - If the domestic worker absconds within six (6) months of hire: The recruitment office is liable for reimbursing the employer for both recruitment expenses and the cost of a return air ticket. - If absconding occurs after six (6) months: The matter is escalated to the judicial system, which determines compensation obligations and responsibility for repatriation. 3. Legal Warning: - Harboring or employing absconded domestic workers is strictly prohibited and subject to penalties and legal prosecution. 2. Contesting or Removing an Absconding Case A. Private Sector Employees - Initial Filing and Contestation Window: Absconding complaints are filed with PAM (Public Authority for Manpower) and remain administratively active for up to ninety (90) days before transfer to the Ministry of Interior. Legal Remedies Within 90 Days: Withdrawal by Employer: The employer retains the right to cancel or withdraw the report via PAM's portal. Response Options: Day 1–30: The employee may file a formal objection at the Labor Relations Department, asserting that the absence was either justified or misreported. If accepted, the case is dropped, and full employment rights are preserved. Day 31–60: The employee may still file a complaint. If successful, they may recover their passport, halt residency cancellation, and prevent deportation. Requirements: The employee must provide supporting evidence such as: - Medical certificates - Travel documents - Prior resignation notices - Communication records with the employer 4. PAM Committee Review: The PAM review committee will assess the legitimacy of the claim. If the employer refuses to remove the case, it typically remains unless: The worker falls under the exemption categories: Spouse of a Kuwaiti citizen Palestinian nationals with valid documents Cases involving judicial rulings Applicants seeking transfer to family visas After 90 Days: The case is transferred to the Ministry of Interior. This may result in: - Cancellation of residency - Deportation orders - Blacklist status preventing re-entry into Kuwait Committee Authority for Removal (Joint Review): A joint panel from PAM and MOI may dismiss the absconding case if: - The employer withdraws the complaint and agrees to renew or transfer the visa. - The report is deemed malicious, fraudulent, or filed in error (e.g., during a visa transfer process). Employer Role and Online Resolution: The employer can initiate removal procedures through the PAM e-platform, but actual removal often requires in-person cooperation and settlement between parties. Preventive Legal Advice: Employees should: - Resign in writing - Document emergency leaves - File labor complaints promptly in case of abuse or non-payment of dues - This ensures protection from retaliatory absconding claims B. Domestic Workers Removal Procedure: & Filing by Employer: The sponsor files an absence report with the MOI via citizen service centers. Resolution Pathway: If the case is disputed, it must be referred to the Department of Regulating the Recruitment of Domestic Workers at PAM. by the Recruitment Office: For absconding within six months, the recruitment office remains liable for associated costs. Escalation: If employment exceeds six months or sponsorship lapses, legal disputes are handled by the judiciary. Removal: The case can be removed: - With the employer's consent - Via a court judgment - If the worker qualifies under special exemptions Kuwait's labor law provides structured processes for both employers and employees regarding absenteeism/absconding matters. While employers have defined rights to file such reports, employees and domestic workers are afforded due process and avenues for legal recourse. Prompt action, documentation, and legal representation are critical to protecting one's rights under Kuwait's labor and residency framework.
