Kuwait private-sector labour law basics
Hours, leave, transfer rules and indemnity.
In short
Working hours are 48 per week, reduced in Ramadan. Annual leave is 30 days after the first year. Indemnity is 15 days’ pay per year for the first five years, then a month per year.
- Hours
- 8/day
- Leave
- 30 days
- Probation
- Up to 100 days
- Wages
- Bank transfer required
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
PAM portal.
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Keep payslips
Don’t
- Don’t surrender your passport
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Changing employer usually requires completing a year and the current employer’s release in many cases.
Common questions
Is there a minimum wage?
KWD 75 for private sector (lower for domestic workers).
Official links
Background and more detail
Working hours are 48 per week, reduced in Ramadan. Annual leave is 30 days after the first year. Indemnity is 15 days’ pay per year for the first five years, then a month per year.
Key facts
- Hours: 8/day
- Leave: 30 days
- Probation: Up to 100 days
- Wages: Bank transfer required
Steps
- Check contract on Ashal – PAM portal.
- Complaint to PAM – Online or labour office.
- Labour court – If unresolved.
Watch out
- Changing employer usually requires completing a year and the current employer’s release in many cases.
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