Banking in Kuwait
Opening an account with your civil ID and sending money home.
In short
Kuwaiti banks require a Civil ID and salary certificate. Salary transfer is standard. NBK, KFH and Boubyan are the most popular, and the KNET network is used for daily payments.
- Needed
- Civil ID + salary certificate
- Payment network
- KNET
- Regulator
- Central Bank of Kuwait
- Time
- 1–3 days
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
Required for any account.
Month 1
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Use Kuwait Mobile ID for verification
Don’t
- Don’t leave Kuwait with outstanding loans
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Banks report debts that can trigger travel bans.
Common questions
Is Kuwaiti dinar strong?
Yes, it is the highest-valued currency in the world.
Official links
Background and more detail
Requirements
- Civil ID
- Passport with residence
- Salary certificate
Most employers pay salaries into a specific bank, so you usually open your first account there.
Payments
KNET is the national debit network and works at almost every shop and website. WAMD offers instant transfers between banks by phone number.
Sending money home
Exchange houses such as Al Mulla Exchange and banks offer international transfers. Compare the exchange rate, not only the fee.
Rather have someone do it?
Vetted local partners can handle this for you. Free quote, no obligation.
Real Estate Purchase Brokerage
Introductions to RERA-licensed agents and developers for buying property.
- From
- Quote
- Takes
- Ongoing
Free for clients — partner commission applies
Get a free quoteLegal & Accounting Introductions
Find a licensed lawyer, accountant or VAT agent for your situation.
- From
- Quote
- Takes
- 2–5 days
Free introduction
Get a free quoteGet updates like this every week
Related guides
Setting up a business in Kuwait
KDIPA licences, ownership and steps.
Banking and sending money home from Kuwait
Accounts, KNET and exchange houses.
Schools in Kuwait for expat children
Private schools, fees and admission.