Kuwait has long been a favourite destination for work and education, as the visa process is easy for Pakistani Passport holders.
In a recent development, Kuwait announced a major relief for Pakistanis working in the Gulf country. The Interior Ministry of Kuwait made some changes to the policy of transferring visa categories.
Here’s a step-by-step process to convert Kuwait Work Visa (Article 18) to a Family/Dependent Visa (Article 22).
The guide includes complete details for a working spouse who wants to stop working and be sponsored by their partner.
Eligibility
- The spouse who is sponsoring should have a minimum monthly salary of KD 450 if the other person is already in Kuwait on a work visa.
- Usually husband sponsors his wife and children.
- In special cases, when the wife is working in specific professions can also sponsor her husband.
Requirements
- The Article 18 to Article 22 form, signed by the current employer (sponsor).
- Original and copies for both the sponsor and the person being sponsored.
- An updated certificate from the sponsor’s employer.
- Must be authenticated by the embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Copies of current work permits for both parties.
- From the current employer to confirm all company obligations are cleared.
How to apply
The process is simple, first thing first, visit the Jawazat with a correctly filled application to get initial approval.
Then get a clearance certificate and NOC from the Public Authority for Civil Information to confirm the cancellation of the work visa status.
Pay the required fee for the transfer, health insurance, visa issuance.
Visit the Immigration Department with evidence of insurance to get the residency stamp.
The last step is to update the Civil ID through the PACI website.
