The Ministry of Commerce and Industry clarified in Administrative Circular No. 11 of 2024 that the ban on individuals holding Article 18 (Private Company Visa) from establishing, renewing, or amending companies and institutions is temporary and applies only to amendment and renewal procedures. The ministry stressed that existing licenses remain valid and have not been suspended.

The ministry confirmed that current licenses are still in effect and assured that coordination with government agencies is ongoing to revise regulatory controls for foreign partners and managers.

A responsible source within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry reiterated that the suspension of expatriate licenses holding Article 18 is a temporary measure, solely until the necessary amendments and renewals are completed. The source assured that the existing licenses are unaffected.

The ministry is actively working with other government entities to update the regulations governing foreign partners and managers, aiming to support the Kuwaiti economy.

The source also highlighted that the ministry is fully prepared to assist license holders and facilitate their procedures at any time, stressing that the ministry’s objective is to organize, not disrupt, business activities.

The ministry’s regulatory updates are intended to support the Kuwaiti economy by ensuring clear and effective regulations for foreign investors and managers.

Ongoing discussions aim to resolve any conflicts and streamline processes related to foreign business licensing.

The ministry's efforts are focused on improving business conditions and regulatory clarity for foreign partners and managers in Kuwait.

Trade union representatives in the oil sector are calling for the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) to address the stringent and complex job requirements imposed by private oil companies, especially those in which KPC holds significant shares.

Recent job announcements by EQUATE Petrochemical Company have sparked controversy. Despite the Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC), a KPC subsidiary, owning a 42.5% stake in EQUATE, the job listing did not specify that applicants need to be Kuwaiti citizens. This omission has raised questions about KPC's influence in the hiring process.

The job requirements for a position at EQUATE have been criticized for being excessively demanding. The basic qualification is a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, but applicants must also meet several additional criteria:

Experience: 5-8 years in accounting, including financial reporting and accounting settlements.

Skills: Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP), advanced Excel skills, and expertise in preparing and reviewing financial statements.

Additional Preferences: Experience with internationally recognized auditing firms and accounting qualifications such as CPA or ACCA are preferred.

The complexity of these requirements has led some to believe that the job advertisement may be aimed at a select group of candidates.

As the 3-day deadline for Dr. Noura Al-Mishaan, the Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs, to decide on the termination of all expatriates with university degrees in the municipality draws to a close today, municipal authorities are awaiting a directive from Eng. Saud Al-Dubos, the Director of Kuwait Municipality. This decision will determine the fate of expatriates in various roles, including those with qualifications in law, engineering, accounting, and other administrative fields, as well as expatriate legal advisors in the Legal Department and affiliated offices.

Municipal sources have expressed concern that the rapid 72-hour timeframe for implementing the terminations could disrupt municipal operations. The short period is deemed insufficient for training new Kuwaiti employees to take over the roles of the departing expatriates. The municipality’s departments are currently reviewing the decision from a legal standpoint to determine the appropriate course of action, given that many of the affected employees are under contracts managed by the Civil Service Bureau.

Previously, the municipality had coordinated with the Bureau to implement a gradual replacement plan to increase the number of national employees without compromising operational efficiency. Newly appointed national staff will require gradual training to handle the roles effectively, and the municipality plans to organize special training courses for positions in engineering, control, administration, and finance.

The decision by Al-Mishaan follows two similar previous initiatives that caused disruptions and delays in replacement efforts. The first was in 2020 under former Minister Walid Al-Jassem, who ordered the termination of half of the expatriate employees in the municipality. This was followed by former Minister of Municipality Dr. Rana Al-Fares, who introduced a 3-stage plan to Kuwaitize municipal jobs. This plan began with the termination of 33% of non-Kuwaiti employees starting in 2022, while exempting non-Kuwaiti employees with a Kuwaiti mother, citizens of GCC countries, stateless permanent residents registered with the Central Agency for Illegal Residents, service employees, and 50% of funeral department staff.

The Disciplinary Board of the Competition Protection Authority has approved significant financial penalties on 16 out of 20 exchange companies accused of violating a monopoly agreement to unify foreign currency exchange rates. This agreement, deemed harmful to healthy competition by the Authority and the Disciplinary Board, violated the business model, its law, and its executive regulations.

Details of the Penalties

The sources reported that the fines imposed on these companies ranged between 1%, 3%, and 5% of their total revenues from the fiscal years 2020 to 2022. These penalties were based on evidence that the companies had colluded to fix exchange rates over a period of time.

Financial Impact and Revenue Details

In 2023, the revenues of the 32 exchange companies operating under the Central Bank of Kuwait’s supervision amounted to approximately 80.15 million dinars, including 60.3 million from currency sales, 18.87 million from other revenues, and 972.5 thousand from bank interest. These companies recorded net profits of 43.08 million dinars last year. Additionally, around 105 banking institutions are subject to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s supervision.

Legal Findings and Violations

The penalties were approved after the Authority investigated these companies’ practices, specifically their violation of Chapter Two, “Practices Harmful to Competition,” Article (5). This article prohibits agreements or actions related to horizontal relationships, such as indirectly determining product prices by raising, lowering, or fixing them.

Impact on Market Competition

The investigation concluded that the alliances formed between the exchange companies to unify foreign currency prices led to price fixing, violating the Competition Protection Law, which prohibits any agreements to unify prices. This practice impacted service quality and product competitiveness, contradicting the Authority’s policy to monitor markets and commercial sectors. Such agreements fall under monopolistic practices that hinder fair competition in the markets.

The General Administration of Residency Affairs in Kuwait is considering an increase in the fees for transferring the residency of parents from those holding Article 22 to their sponsor who holds Article 24. This potential change comes as the department seeks consultation from the General Administration of Legal Affairs.

Article 22 Residency Fees: Currently, the fee for renewing or transferring residency for a father or mother under Article 22 is only ten dinars. This fee is significantly lower compared to other residency categories.

Family/Dependent Visa Fees: For parents or other family members holding residency under different articles (Article 17, Article 18, Article 19), the cost is substantially higher, amounting to 250 dinars.

Fee Review: The Residency Affairs department is reviewing whether the annual fee of ten dinars for Article 22 residency will remain or if it will be adjusted to align more closely with the higher fees applied under other articles.

Impact on Sponsors: If the fee increase is approved, sponsors holding Article 24 may face higher costs for renewing or transferring the residency of their parents, reflecting a shift towards a more uniform fee structure.

In a significant move, the Ministry of Commerce and the Public Authority for Manpower in Kuwait have jointly announced the suspension of establishing and renewing business entities where partners or managers are not under Article 19 residency. This decision impacts 45,000 business licenses and approximately 10,000 expatriates currently under Article 18 who must transition to Article 19 to retain their roles as partners or managing partners.

Residency Regulations Overview

This announcement, initially reported by Al-Rai, reveals that the Ministry of Commerce will review regulations for individuals under various residency articles, including Articles 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, and 24. The Public Authority for Manpower clarified that properties affected by this suspension do not need to be registered in the Ministry of Justice’s registry. Importantly, combining roles of worker and employer is not allowed under the new regulations.

Key Residency Articles

• Article 18: Covers workers with a work permit under the supervision of employers as per Law No. 6 of 2010 regarding work in the private sector.
• Article 19: Grants ordinary residency to foreign investors or partners in commercial or industrial activities, provided they submit two budgets certified by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Transition and Compliance

Expatriates under Article 18 must amend their status to Article 19 to continue as partners or investors. Failure to transition will necessitate the sale of their shares. Approximately 10,000 expatriates in this category, affecting 45,000 licenses, must comply with the new rule. The Manpower Authority stressed that non-citizen residents can still be partners or investors, but must hold Article 19 residency to avoid legal conflicts.

Inspections and Legal Violations

Recent inspections revealed that many expatriates holding partner status under Article 18 are not actively engaged in commercial activities, which is a violation of the Labor Law and raises concerns about potential human trafficking. Consequently, expatriates must transition to Article 19 or relinquish their ownership to avoid legal repercussions.

Transition Period and Enforcement

A grace period will be provided for expatriates to transition their residency status to Article 19 or liquidate their shares. This measure aims to protect their legal and financial positions and maintain market stability. The Ministry of Commerce has banned expatriates from owning businesses under Article 18, enforcing that they must comply with Article 19 regulations to continue their business activities.

This regulatory change is designed to ensure compliance with Kuwaiti law, safeguard investment opportunities for citizens, and verify that workers are employed by their registered employers. Expatriates must act promptly to transition to Article 19 to avoid negative impacts on their rights and business operations.

Kuwait’s new residency rules require 10,000 expatriates to transition to Article 19 to maintain their business licenses. The Ministry of Commerce and the Public Authority for Manpower aim to ensure compliance with labor laws and prevent legal violations. Expatriates must act during the grace period to avoid selling their shares and facing legal consequences.

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has unveiled a new digital linkage project designed to connect hospitals with medical warehouses in Subhan. This initiative aims to improve health services, enhance drug security, and streamline the supply chain for medicines and medical supplies.

The project, which is being implemented through a series of technical and executive phases, began with standardizing the types of medicines and supplies between hospitals and warehouses. A detailed timetable was established for processing orders, specifying quantities, and outlining the procedures for delivery, examination, and distribution to hospital pharmacies.

The initial phase of implementation focused on determining the necessary quantities of medicines and supplies for each hospital. Orders were first placed at Farwaniya Hospital, followed by Mubarak Hospital and Jahra Hospital. Preparations are underway to extend the linkage to additional hospitals.

The new electronic system simplifies the ordering process, handling hospital orders that typically range from 200 to 600 items per request. This system is designed to enhance the management of dispensing and distribution, ensuring timely availability of essential supplies.

In addition to the main project, the Ministry has initiated the linkage of laboratory supplies to accelerate laboratory work. This aspect of the project is currently being tested between Subhan warehouses and Mubarak and Farwaniya hospitals. An emergency orders policy has also been activated to address urgent needs efficiently via telephone.

By reducing the documentary cycle through digital linkage, the Ministry aims to ensure the timely availability of medicines and medical supplies. This initiative is expected to improve safe health practices and support drug safety for patients.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has issued an urgent directive requiring the verification of university degrees for non-Kuwaiti employees. This action, detailed in an administrative circular dated August 1st and labeled “Important and Urgent,” was announced by Deputy Undersecretary Diaa Al-Qabandi and has been disseminated to all relevant sectors.

The circular, which was obtained by Al-Anba, mandates that all directors and heads of organizational units must notify non-Kuwaiti employees of the urgent need to submit their degree verification documents. The directive emphasizes the critical nature of this process and urges immediate compliance to avoid potential issues with supervisory authorities.

Undersecretary Diaa Al-Qabandi has highlighted the necessity for non-Kuwaiti employees to promptly provide the required documentation. This step is crucial to ensure adherence to legal deadlines and to address any discrepancies that might be flagged by supervisory bodies.

Suad Al-Hussein, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Sustainable Energy Society, has hailed the signing of the infrastructure contract for the South Saad Al-Abdullah City project as a transformative step towards Kuwait’s smart city goals. This landmark initiative will deliver approximately 24,508 smart housing units for Kuwaiti citizens.

Al-Hussein praised the government’s commitment to embracing global trends in smart city development. She noted the critical role of scientific and executive institutions such as the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Science (KFAS) and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), alongside the expertise of trained specialists from educational institutions.

The smart city project will leverage cutting-edge construction systems and energy-saving technologies sourced from global markets, including China, Europe, and the U.S. Al-Hussein highlighted the potential of this initiative to inspire young Kuwaiti professionals to engage in smart technologies and renewable energy sectors, fostering a vibrant job market in these fields.

In a related development, Al-Hussein commended the Public Authority for Industry (PAI) for advancing feasibility studies and qualifying consultants for key projects such as Naeem Industrial City and the Industrial Recycling Zone in Shaqaya. These initiatives are crucial for supporting industrial activities and environmental sustainability.

The PAI has also emphasized the importance of mandating clean energy systems for both existing and future factories. This measure is essential for Kuwait to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 and fulfill international commitments. The adoption of clean energy will lead to significant energy savings, environmental preservation, and reduced carbon emissions from industrial activities.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has recently announced the removal of residential addresses for 583 individuals. This action was undertaken due to either property owners' declarations or the demolition of the respective properties.

Individuals whose addresses have been removed are required to visit the PACI headquarters within 30 days from the publication date in the Official Gazette. They must update their addresses by providing the necessary supporting documents to avoid penalties.

Failure to update addresses within the stipulated timeframe may result in fines as outlined in Article 33 of Law No. 32 of 1982. The fines could reach up to 100 dinars per individual, with the amount potentially multiplied based on the number of affected people.

Steps to Update Your Address

To ensure compliance, affected individuals should gather all required documents and visit the PACI headquarters promptly. For further assistance, refer to the PACI website or contact their customer service for detailed guidance.

On Thursday, Colonel Hamad Al-Saqer, spokesperson for Kuwait’s defense ministry, emphasized that Kuwait will not allow its territory to be used for military attacks against neighboring countries. This statement was made in response to recent reports suggesting otherwise. The defense ministry has firmly denied these allegations, underscoring the country's commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with its neighbors.

The Federation of Arab Journalists (FAJ) has issued a strong statement calling for the international community to safeguard journalists in conflict zones, specifically Palestine, Lebanon, and Sudan. The FAJ condemned the recent attacks on journalists in Palestine by Israeli forces and settlers, who are increasingly targeting media personnel reporting on the Israeli occupation. The federation urged Arab media institutions to shed light on the challenges faced by Palestinian journalists and the broader plight of the Palestinian people.

FAJ expressed solidarity with Palestinian journalists who continue their work amidst significant threats. The federation also highlighted the severe conditions faced by journalists in southern Lebanon and Sudan. In Sudan, numerous media offices have been destroyed, and journalists have been subjected to theft, kidnapping, and unemployment. FAJ reported that approximately 1,000 Sudanese journalists are currently out of work, reflecting the harsh environment for media professionals in the region.

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi has underscored the urgent need for blood donations to support the Central Blood Bank. Emphasizing the vital role of blood in saving lives, Dr. Al-Awadhi called on both citizens and residents to donate blood, particularly highlighting its necessity for cancer patients, surgical procedures, traffic accident victims, and blood exchange cases.

Dr. Al-Awadhi made this appeal during a press statement following the launch of the “Together Forever, a Wall for the Homeland 9” campaign. This initiative, organized by the Ministry of Health in partnership with military and civil society institutions, commemorates the 34th anniversary of the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait.

During the campaign's launch, Dr. Al-Awadhi visited the Central Blood Bank and reviewed several urgent medical cases. Notably, one patient in the blood exchange unit preparing for a liver transplant requires approximately six blood bags daily, while another patient depends on daily blood exchanges to survive. These cases highlight the ongoing and critical need for blood donations.

Dr. Reem Al-Radwan, Director of the Central Blood Bank, emphasized that the campaign honors the military corps and all who sacrificed during the Iraqi invasion. She also noted the significant involvement of civil society institutions in blood donation efforts. Although the bloodstock remains stable, ongoing donation campaigns are crucial due to the short shelf life of blood.

The “Together Forever, a Wall for the Homeland” campaign, now in its ninth year, aims to strengthen national cohesion and remember the sacrifices of martyrs. The campaign features participation from the military corps, including the army, police, national guard, and General Fire Force, alongside various civil society institutions. Its goal is to promote humanitarian efforts, enhance social solidarity, and foster a culture of voluntary donation.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has introduced a new regulation requiring expatriate children to obtain explicit approval from their father before leaving the country. This new rule, implemented by the General Administration of Ports – Airport Passports Department, mandates that guardians sign a statement prepared by the Passports Department, ensuring their consent for the child's departure.

Under this regulation, expatriate children cannot leave Kuwait without their father's approval, even if they are accompanied by their mother or another relative. The rule is now in effect at all ports of departure, making it a mandatory requirement for all expatriate children.

A Ministry spokesperson clarified that the primary purpose of this regulation is to prevent potential issues arising from marital disputes. Specifically, the rule aims to prevent situations where a mother might travel abroad with her children without the father's consent, potentially leading to legal complications or custody disputes.

The new regulation applies uniformly across all ports in Kuwait, ensuring that no child leaves the country without the father's explicit approval and signature. This requirement applies regardless of whether the child is traveling with their mother or another guardian.

The Ministry emphasized that this regulation is designed to protect the rights and responsibilities of both parents, particularly in cases where the father legally sponsors the child within the country. The rule addresses concerns about children in the father's custody being taken abroad without his consent, which is considered a legal infraction under the new regulations.

India's customs regulations are crucial for travelers to understand to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth experience at the airport. The following information outlines the customs free allowance and duty rates applicable in India for 2024.

1. Gold Jewellery Other than 24 Carats

• For Gentlemen Passengers: Up to 20 grams or worth Rs. 50,000, provided the passenger has stayed abroad for more than one year.
• For Female Passengers: Up to 40 grams or worth Rs. 1,00,000, provided the passenger has stayed abroad for more than one year.
• Duty Rate: No duty applicable.

2. Gold or Gold Jewellery Up to 1000 Grams

• Condition: The period of stay abroad should be more than 6 months.
• Duty Rate: 16.5%, payable in convertible foreign exchange.

3. Gold or Gold Jewellery Exceeding 1000 Grams

• Condition: Same as above.
• Duty Rate: 44%, for amounts exceeding the allowances mentioned in categories 1 and 2.

4. Televisions of All Sizes (New/Old/Used)

• Duty Rate: 38.5%

5. Liquor/Alcohol/Wine

• Allowance: Up to 2 Litres.
• Duty Rate: In excess of 2 Litres, 165%.

6. Cigarettes

• Allowance: Up to 100 Sticks.
• Duty Rate: In excess of 100 sticks, 110%.

7. Laptop

• Allowance: 1 Laptop.
• Duty Rate: No duty.

8. All Other Items Including Electronic Gadgets (Mobile Phones, Laptops, iPads, etc.)

• Free Allowance: Rs. 50,000 on all items.
• Duty Rate: For amounts exceeding Rs. 50,000, 38.5%.

Important Note: Any misdeclaration attracts penalties under the Customs Act.

Related Articles from Kuwait Local

• Customs Documents Are Required for Travelers Carrying Gold Bars, Coins, and Excess Jewelry - This article provides essential information on the documentation required for travelers carrying significant amounts of gold, ensuring compliance with customs regulations.

Staying informed about customs regulations is essential for international travelers to India. Adhering to the stipulated allowances and being aware of duty rates can prevent legal issues and unnecessary expenses. Always ensure to declare your items correctly to avoid any penalties under the Customs Act.

Kuwait is implementing stringent traffic laws to improve road safety and reduce violations. This article provides an updated overview of major traffic violations, fines, points, and the latest legislative changes in Kuwait for 2024.

Major Traffic Violations, Fines, and Points in Kuwait

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
  • Fine: KD 1,000 - KD 3,000
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: 1 to 3 years imprisonment
• Reckless Driving
  • Fine: KD 150 (increased from KD 30)
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: Possible vehicle impoundment
• Exceeding Speed Limit
  • Fine: Up to KD 500
  • Points: 4 - 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
  • Fine: KD 300
  • Points: 4 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Not Wearing a Seatbelt
  • Fine: KD 10
  • Points: 2 points
• Running a Red Light
  • Fine: KD 150 (increased from KD 50)
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Illegal Overtaking
  • Fine: KD 30 - KD 75
  • Points: 4 points
• Driving Without a License
  • Fine: Up to KD 100
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Obstructing Traffic
  • Fine: KD 15 - KD 50
  • Points: 4 points
• Parking Violations
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 2 points
• Driving a Vehicle Without Insurance
  • Fine: Up to KD 50
  • Points: 14 points
• Driving a Vehicle in Poor Condition
  • Fine: KD 20 - KD 100
  • Points: 6 points
• Driving a Vehicle with Expired Registration
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 4 points
• Transporting Passengers Illegally
  • Fine: Up to KD 100
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Possible vehicle confiscation
• Violating Lane Discipline
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 4 points
• Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles
  • Fine: KD 250 - KD 500
  • Points: 6 points
• Towing Another Vehicle Illegally
  • Fine: KD 15 - KD 50
  • Points: 6 points
• Illegally Tinting the Car
  • Fine: Up to KD 200
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 2 months imprisonment
• Leaving Children or Pets Peeking Out of the Car
  • Fine: KD 75
  • Points: 2 points
• Placing a Child Under 10 Years Old in the Front Seats
  • Fine: KD 100 - KD 200
  • Points: 2 points

Updates to Traffic Laws and Penalties

Director of the Security Media Department at the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier Nasser Bousleib, has announced that Kuwait is working on a new traffic law to increase fines and penalties for certain violations. Notably:

• Crossing the Red Light: Fine increased from KD 50 to KD 150.
• Reckless Driving: Fine increased to KD 150, with potential vehicle impoundment.

These changes aim to deter traffic violations and enhance road safety in Kuwait.

Pay Your Traffic Fines Online

You can pay your traffic fines online through the Ministry of Interior’s eServices portal: Pay Your Traffic Fines in Kuwait

Comprehensive List of Traffic Violations

For a detailed list of every traffic offense, fine, violation points, reconciliation, and imprisonment in Kuwait, refer to the embedded link below:

Some of the most common traffic offenses in Kuwait include:

• Speeding
• Running Red Lights
• Illegal Parking
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
• Driving Without a Valid License

For more details, you can read about the Smart Parking Initiative that aims to alleviate traffic gridlock in Kuwait.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the maximum fine for a traffic violation in Kuwait?The maximum fine can go up to KD 3,000 for severe violations like driving under the influence.Q2: How can I pay my traffic fines in Kuwait?Traffic fines can be paid online through the Ministry of Interior’s website, at designated payment centers, through mobile apps, and at specific banks.Q3: Are there any special rules for new drivers in Kuwait?New drivers, often referred to as “probationary drivers,”New drivers, often referred to as “probationary drivers,” may have stricter rules and may be subject to more severe penalties for traffic violations.Q4: What happens if I accumulate too many traffic points?Accumulating too many traffic points can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.

Understanding and complying with traffic regulations is essential for safe driving and avoiding penalties in Kuwait. Stay informed about the latest laws and ensure you drive responsibly to contribute to safer roads.

In a recent television program, Capital Prosecutor and head of Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, Ahmad Al-Kandari, emphasized Kuwait's strict penalties for human trafficking, which can escalate to the death penalty under severe circumstances. He explained that human trafficking involves both material and moral aspects, where the material aspect includes actions like reception, shelter, and coercion, while the moral aspect involves the perpetrator's awareness of committing a crime.

Kuwait's Law No. 91/2013 addresses human trafficking with a range of penalties depending on the crime's severity. For instance, imprisonment can extend up to 15 years, increasing to life imprisonment if the victim is a child or a person with special needs, or if the crime involves weapons. In cases where the victim dies, the law mandates the death penalty for the perpetrators.

Dr. Fahad Murad, Deputy Director General of the Manpower Protection Sector at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM), highlighted that the PAM shelter provides a safe haven for human trafficking victims. These victims can enter the shelter independently or through diplomatic missions. The shelter offers comprehensive services, including medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance, ensuring victims receive the necessary aid without any financial burden.

Kuwait is committed to fulfilling its humanitarian and legal obligations by fighting human trafficking. Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson of the Health Ministry, reiterated that the ministry, in collaboration with the Permanent National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, implements strategies to protect victims. These efforts include medical assessments and necessary treatments for shelter residents, as well as coordination with security agencies to report potential trafficking cases.

To strengthen child protection, the Health Ministry has established hotline number 147, dedicated to receiving reports of child abuse. The hotline is part of Kuwait's broader initiative to protect children and prevent human trafficking. The hotline is staffed by trained professionals who handle calls confidentially and sensitively, ensuring that children under 18 and their families receive appropriate support and intervention.

Kuwait's robust legal framework and proactive measures reflect its commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals. The establishment of specialized services and reporting mechanisms underscores the nation's dedication to maintaining safety and justice for all residents.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has introduced a new electronic service designed to combat the issue of counterfeit trademarks. This service enables users to report counterfeit brands directly through the ministry's electronic trademark system at trademark.moci.gov.kw. Users can easily select the option to report a counterfeit trademark, fill in the necessary details, and upload the required documentation.

Enhanced Process for Issuing Certificates of Origin

In addition to the new counterfeit reporting service, the MoCI has also streamlined the process for issuing Certificates of Origin for national products. This new feature, accessible through the ministry’s electronic portal, allows users to upload essential documents such as industrial licenses and export invoices. The enhanced process aims to facilitate smoother and more efficient export procedures for Kuwaiti businesses.

Kuwait, a gem in the Gulf, attracts numerous visitors yearly for tourism, business, and family reunions. To ensure smooth entry and stay, it is crucial to be well-versed with the latest visa regulations. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the different types of visas available for entry into Kuwait in 2024, the specific requirements, and the penalties associated with overstaying.

1. Entry Visa Permit Holders:

• Categories: Private Sectors, Family Visa, Profession Practice, Domestic Labor, Temporary Government Contracts.
• Requirements: Applicants must contact the Embassy/Consulate of Kuwait in their home country with a Criminal Clearance Certificate for ratification.
• Validity: Allows temporary residence for two months from the entry date. During this period, the visa holder must refer to the General Department of Residency Affairs to complete the necessary requirements for a regular residence.
• Important Note: Any discrepancy between the Entry Visa data and passport data will result in the visa being considered invalid, prohibiting entry into Kuwait.

2. Visit Entry Visa:

• Categories: Government, Commercial, Family.
• Validity: Permits a one-month stay from the entry date. The visa holder must leave immediately upon the expiration of the visa duration.
• Work Restriction: The visa explicitly prohibits employment during the stay.

3. Touristic Visa:

• Validity: Allows a three-month stay from the entry date.
• Work Restriction: Employment is strictly prohibited.

4. Transit Visa:

• Validity: Grants temporary residence for seven days from the entry date.

5. Truck Drivers' Visa:

• Validity: Permits a 14-day stay from the entry date.

Penalties for Overstaying

Overstaying your visa in Kuwait can lead to significant fines. The penalties are as follows:

• Residence Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial two months.
• Visit Visa: 10 K.D. daily for the first month, followed by 2 K.D. daily thereafter.
• Touristic Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial three months.
• Transit Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial seven days.
• Truck Drivers' Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial 14 days.

Important Instructions

• Embassy Contact: Entry visa holders must contact the Kuwaiti Embassy/Consulate in their country for necessary clearances.
• Data Accuracy: Ensure all visa data matches the passport details to avoid invalidation.
• Temporary Residence: Entry visa permits allow temporary residence, requiring follow-up with the General Department of Residency Affairs.
• Work Prohibition: Visit and touristic visas prohibit any form of employment.

The Al-Ojeiri Scientific Center announced that the Marzam hot season is set to start from Monday and will continue for the next 13 days. This period marks the beginning of a new stage of the summer season and is significant in the Arab summer calendar.

Marzam is known as the fifth summer house for the Arabs and the sixth in the calendar of the houses of the sun and the moon. It precedes the season (Al-Kulaibain), which is typically the humidity season in Kuwait, and is followed by the season (Suhail).

During Marzam, often referred to as the period of the “ember of heat,” the temperature of the earth intensifies. This season is also notable for the readiness of dates for harvest. The length of the day extends to 13 hours and 36 minutes during Marzam.

Marzam is named after the star (Al-Marzam), which is distinguished by its extreme brightness. It is considered the brightest star in the sky, adding to the significance of this period.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense and Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Al-Sabah has issued a resolution amending certain provisions of Article 29 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019. This regulation, which outlines the executive guidelines of the Expatriates Residency Law, now allows expatriates without a university degree to bring their spouses and children to Kuwait under a family visa, provided their salary is at least KD 800.

Article One of the new resolution stipulates that expatriates can obtain a regular family visa if their monthly salary is not less than KD 800, based on their work permit.

The resolution also introduces flexibility for family visas for children born within or outside Kuwait, who are under five years old. The Director General of the Residency Affairs General Department at the Interior Ministry can exempt these cases from the KD 800 salary requirement, based on regulations and conditions specified by the department.

According to Article Two, the undersecretary of the ministry responsible for implementing this decision will put it into effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. Residency affairs departments in the governorates have already begun receiving family visa applications from expatriates who do not hold a university degree but have a salary of at least KD 800.

This resolution marks a significant change in family visa regulations, offering more flexibility for expatriates in Kuwait to reunite with their families under specific conditions.