Daijiworld Media Network - Kuwait
Kuwait, Feb 18: Kuwait is set to introduce a new freelance residency permit allowing expatriates to work independently without requiring a traditional employer sponsor, in a major reform of its labour and residency framework.
The announcement was confirmed by Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, who said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to curb visa trading and tighten labour market regulations.
“Instead of paying visa traders, pay the government some KD 800–1,000,” Sheikh Fahad said, indicating that the new system will redirect residency-related payments directly to the state and eliminate illegal intermediaries.
The proposed freelance residency permit — effectively a Freelancer Visa — will allow skilled expatriates to live and work in Kuwait independently, without being tied to a single employer under the existing kafala (sponsorship) system.
The annual fee for the new permit is expected to range between KD 750 and KD 1,000. Authorities have clarified that the payment must be made directly to the government.
The scheme is likely to be implemented within the next two months as part of ongoing labour market reforms aimed at strengthening enforcement and modernising residency rules.
While detailed eligibility criteria have not yet been officially published, the permit is expected to target skilled expatriates capable of operating independently. Professionals, consultants and small-scale entrepreneurs are likely to benefit from the new framework.
Specific details regarding approved professions, qualification requirements, minimum income thresholds and family sponsorship rules are yet to be announced. Officials are expected to release comprehensive executive regulations before the rollout.
The key reform lies in removing the requirement for a traditional employer sponsor — a significant departure from Kuwait’s long-standing residency structure.
Authorities have not yet issued a formal application guide. However, applicants are likely to submit passport documents, professional credentials and other required paperwork through official Ministry of Interior channels. Kuwait has been expanding digital services, and the freelance permit is expected to be integrated into the electronic residency system.
Successful applicants will be required to pay the annual government fee, after which residency will be granted and subject to renewal under the new framework.
If implemented as announced, the freelance visa would mark one of the most substantial residency reforms in recent years, offering expatriates a legal pathway to independent work while strengthening state oversight of the labour market.
Prospective applicants are advised to monitor official announcements from Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior for confirmed guidelines and procedures.