Kuwait recently announced that it has proposed a freelance visa. So basically, with the introduction of the regulated freelance visa, this would overhaul the labour market, and it would also curb the long-standing trade in residency permits. So, here’s all you need to know about this probable development in the country.
Kuwait Proposes Freelance Visa
Gulf News, in its report, mentioned that the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al Yousef, recently proposed how expats could be allowed to work independently without a traditional sponsor. In the proposal introduced by him during a meeting with the private sector representative, this would be under a structured and legally supervised framework.
A Move To Address Persistent Challenges
As mentioned by the authorities, this move would also address persistent challenges, which are linked to unregulated labour, inflated daily wages in certain low-skilled professions, and residency brokerage. Additionally, this step would mark a significant departure, especially when it comes from the long-standing sponsor-based kafala system, as mentioned by Money Control.
But the next question that arises is, how will this be introduced? According to preliminary guidelines, the first phase would focus on simple professions. Yes, it is expected that there could be an annual fee of KWD750 to KWD1,000. This would be subject to renewal and compliance with the regulatory requirements. Moreover, applicants would also be required to register a verified residential address. The report mentions how they would also have to provide an approved email account and submit clear personal data. Additionally, they will have to meet some criteria that will be announced by the competitive authorities.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Announces Comprehensive Rules For Umrah Pilgrims For Ramadan
Kuwait Recently Introduced A Visa-On-Arrival
This development comes at a time when Kuwait has been making several changes to its visa system. Recently, Kuwait introduced a visa-on-arrival for all GCC residents. Basically, all the residents who hold a valid residency permit and the GCC nations, including those of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. And this came into effect immediately, and expatriates can basically now obtain a one-month tourist visa upon their arrival at the Kuwait International Airport or any other point of entry.
However, they must ensure that the permit is valid for at least six months.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Anson Fernandez Dionisio from Getty Images
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