The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has recently summoned dozens of expatriates for breaching family visa regulations, under the latest enforcement measures led by the Residence Affairs Investigations Department. The violators have been granted a one-month grace period to either regularize their legal residency status or return their dependents to their home countries.

Expatriates targeted under this action initially qualified for family visas (Article 22) based on a monthly salary exceeding KD 800. However, many later lost eligibility due to job changes or salary reductions, making them non-compliant with the updated visa criteria.

This salary benchmark is not arbitrary. Officials emphasized that it is the result of studies designed to ensure that expatriates can adequately support their families while living in Kuwait.

The updated family visa regulations fall under Ministerial Resolution No. 56 of 2024, issued in January 2024 by First Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Al-Sabah. Initially, the law required applicants to:

• Earn at least KD 800 per month
• Hold a university degree
• Work in a profession aligned with their qualifications

However, in a July 2024 amendment, the degree requirement was lifted. Now, any expatriate meeting the salary threshold can apply for dependent visas, regardless of educational background.

As per Article 29 of the amended resolution:

• Family residency is granted only if the sponsor earns no less than KD 800 per month.
• The sponsor must work in a profession matching their listed job title.
• Exceptions may apply for children under five years of age or those born in Kuwait, subject to approval by the Director General of Residency Affairs.

These conditions ensure consistency in the issuance of visas while preventing misuse.

Kuwait's automated government systems play a pivotal role in detecting irregularities. These systems cross-reference data between agencies such as the General Directorate of Residency Affairs and the General Traffic Department, effectively uncovering discrepancies and potential fraudulent transactions.

The enhanced digital monitoring tools are aligned with broader efforts to streamline public services and ensure strict compliance with immigration laws.

This recent action marks a significant development for Kuwait’s expatriate population, especially those holding dependent or Article 22 visas. Failure to comply within the grace period could result in visa cancellations, fines, or even deportation.

For those impacted, it’s imperative to act swiftly—either by securing a job that meets the salary condition or by repatriating dependents.