The US Embassy in Kuwait has officially resumed limited operations from June 24, 2026, after remaining closed for several months due to regional security concerns.
According to the U.S. State Department, the embassy is currently providing limited emergency American Citizen Services (ACS), including emergency assistance and passport applications or renewals by appointment. Eligible U.S. citizens may also use the drop-box passport renewal service.
However, routine visa interviews, visa processing, and notarial services remain suspended, with officials saying these services will be restored gradually as security conditions improve.
The embassy was shut down in early March after Iranian drone attacks targeted U.S. diplomatic missions in the Gulf during heightened regional tensions. Its reopening follows the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement reached in mid-June, although officials continue to monitor the security situation closely.
The U.S. State Department has advised visa applicants to seek appointments at U.S. embassies or consulates in countries where routine visa services are currently available. Travellers are also urged to confirm visa interview appointments before making any non-refundable travel arrangements.
The embassy is operating Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on an appointment-only basis and remains closed on U.S. and Kuwaiti public holidays.
Meanwhile, U.S. diplomatic missions across the Gulf, including those in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, remain open with limited staffing, while routine visa services continue to be suspended in most locations.
Earlier, the United States announced visa restrictions on certain people, according to reports on Thursday. According to the details, it says that these restrictions are for individuals who are involved in undermining peace in Ethiopia.
According to the details, the US State Department said the restrictions mainly target hardline leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and their immediate family members.
“Today, pursuant to his authority under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Secretary Rubio is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on hardline members of the TPLF and their immediate family members,” the statement reads.
The State Department said that growing tensions between hardline TPLF members and the Ethiopian government could restart conflict in northern Ethiopia. Adding that it threatens peace and security across the region.
The statement also referred to clashes earlier this year between TPLF forces and Ethiopian government troops.
It said that the visa restrictions are for the people who are responsible for, or involved in, disrupting efforts to resolve the Tigray crisis.
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