Kuwait work visa and civil ID
How expats get a work permit, residence and civil ID in Kuwait.
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If a change affects a step below, it is flagged after our editors review it.
In short
Your employer applies to PAM for a work permit and to the Ministry of Interior for an entry visa. After a medical and fingerprints you receive Article 18 residence and a Civil ID, which you need for almost everything.
- Residence type
- Article 18 (private sector)
- ID card
- Civil ID (PACI)
- Typical time
- 4–8 weeks
- Main authority
- PAM + Ministry of Interior
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
In your home country, then by the Kuwaiti embassy, then by MOFA in Kuwait.
2–6 weeks
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Use Sahel and Kuwait Mobile ID apps
- Check your job title on the permit – it controls family visa eligibility
- Settle all debts before leaving
Don’t
- Don’t leave with unpaid bills or loans – a travel ban can follow
- Don’t let residence lapse while abroad
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Family visa salary thresholds have changed several times. Check the current rule with the Ministry of Interior before you plan.
Common questions
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes, if your salary and job title meet the current threshold and you hold a university degree.
How long can I stay abroad?
Residents who stay outside Kuwait more than six months can lose residence. Check the latest rule before long trips.
Official links
Background and more detail
Steps
- Your employer gets a work permit from the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM)
- The entry visa is issued by the Ministry of Interior
- After arrival: medical test, fingerprints and security check
- Residence (iqama) is stamped or issued electronically
- Your civil ID is issued by PACI and is needed for almost everything
Track your status in the Sahel government app.
Family visa
Expats above the minimum salary set by the Ministry of Interior (currently KWD 800 a month) can sponsor a spouse and children, subject to degree requirements in some cases. Certificates must be attested.
Changing jobs
Transfers between private employers are possible after a set period, through PAM. Some sectors have extra restrictions.
Leaving Kuwait
Make sure your employer cancels the residence. Settle loans and fines first.
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