Kuwait has introduced a new long-term residency scheme allowing eligible foreign investors and their families to obtain residence permits valid for up to 15 years.
The new framework will attract long-term investment by offering greater stability to foreign investors, replacing the need for frequent renewals of short-term residency permits.
Under the scheme, residency permits will be recommended by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority and issued by the General Directorate of Residency Affairs at the Ministry of Interior.
The residency program is available to owners of licensed investment entities, approved business partners, and senior executives whose positions have been approved by KDIPA. Immediate family members, including spouses, parents, and children, are also eligible to benefit from the scheme.
To qualify, investors must meet strict financial and operational requirements. Licensed investment entities must have a minimum investment value of KWD 5 million, while approved investment activities require capital of at least KWD 1 million deposited within Kuwait. Applicants must also demonstrate active business operations in the country and comply with requirements for employing Kuwaiti nationals.
Applications will first be reviewed by KDIPA, which is required to make a decision within five working days after receiving complete documentation. If additional information is requested, applicants must respond within 30 days or face automatic rejection.
For residency renewals, investors must apply at least 60 days before their permits expire and prove they continue to meet all eligibility requirements.
Applicants are required to submit a passport valid for at least six months, a clean criminal record certificate, and proof that the required capital has been deposited in Kuwait.
Officials said the initiative is designed to attract high-value foreign investment while providing long-term residency security for investors and their families.
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