Kuwait has made it easier for eligible citizens to start a business from home. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued two decisions that let freelance companies operate without commercial premises, with licences valid for four years.
What Has Changed?
Decision No. 216 of 2026 sets out the licensing conditions, while Decision No. 217 of 2026 lists the activities that qualify, according to a ministry statement carried by Kuwait News Agency (KUNA). Licences can be renewed for further four-year terms. Businesses will still need approval from the relevant regulator where their activity requires it.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be Kuwaiti citizens aged 21 or over with full legal capacity. The business has to be a single-person company, and the founder must also act as its manager. Anyone with a final custodial sentence for a felony, or an offence involving dishonour or breach of trust, is not eligible unless they have been legally rehabilitated. Applications go through Kuwait Business Centre, the Sahel or Sahel Business apps, or any other channel the ministry approves.
Can You Use Your Home Address?
Yes, with conditions. Companies need a designated address, a post office box or an email address registered with the Public Authority for Civil Information. A private residence can be used if the property owner agrees. Customers and visitors cannot be received there, though.
Owners must also open a bank account in the company’s name and use payment methods approved by the Central Bank of Kuwait. The commercial registration number has to appear on official accounts and in business dealings, and next to the company name on websites and social media pages.
Which Activities Are Covered?
The list spans professional, scientific, technical and consulting services, along with commercial activities, building services, business support, arts, entertainment, recreation, education and tourism. Rental and employment services, basic repair trades, information and communications, real estate, and making textiles, clothing and leather goods are also included. The ministry’s Commercial Registration and Economic Activities Department will decide eligibility for each activity, and the minister can add, change or remove activities through notices in the Official Gazette.
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What About Making And Selling Products?
Licensed companies can develop, market and sell their own designs, innovations and artistic models. They can hire licensed businesses with commercial or industrial premises to handle manufacturing, printing and packaging, and use licensed warehouses for storage, order processing and fulfillment. You can sell products via exhibits, temporary markets and online platforms. But this method of selling is only valid subject to existing rules.
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FAQs
How long is the licence valid?
Each licence is valid for four years and can be renewed for further four-year periods. Businesses still need approval from any regulatory authority that oversees their activity.
Can I run a freelance business from my home in Kuwait?
Yes. A private residence can be the company’s designated address if the property owner consents. You can also use a post office box or an email address registered with the Public Authority for Civil Information. Receiving customers or visitors at a private home is not allowed.
