Highlights
- Kuwait enforces a new law restricting visa renewal until residents settle all outstanding debts, effective September 10, 2023.
- The policy stems from directives by Acting Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Talal Khalid Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, to ensure debt settlement before residency renewal.
- Residents can settle debts through official state agency websites or the “Sahl” application.
- Residents are urged to strictly adhere to established legal provisions and avoid violating these regulations.
- Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior emphasizes its commitment to maintaining security and public order, pledging to take appropriate actions to uphold these principles.
Visa Renewal Policy Effective Immediately
Kuwait has introduced a new visa renewal law, effective from Sep 10, that restricts residents from renewing their residence visas until they have cleared all outstanding debts. This announcement was made by the Kuwait Ministry of Interior via its official social media channels.
Government Directive
The decision to enact this policy stems from the directives of the Acting Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Talal Khalid Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. It emphasizes the need to streamline the processes of connecting various departments within the Ministry of Interior to ensure that foreign residents settle their debts to the state before their residency permits can be renewed.
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Debt Settlement Methods
Under this new law, individuals seeking to renew their residency permits must settle any outstanding debts through official state agency websites or by using the “Sahl” application, facilitating a straightforward and efficient debt repayment process.
Visit: https://kuwaitsvc.com/en/sahel-app-english/
Legal Adherence Urged
The Ministry of Interior has also issued a stern reminder to all residents to adhere to the established legal provisions and not to violate these regulations. It emphasizes its commitment to maintaining security and public order within the country and affirms its readiness to take appropriate action to uphold these principles.
Security and Public Order
This new policy marks a significant step in Kuwait’s efforts to ensure financial responsibility among its residents and underscores the government’s commitment to a strong and stable financial system. Residents are encouraged to promptly settle their debts to avoid any disruptions in the visa renewal process and to continue their legal residency in Kuwait.
