Archive January 2024

In a landmark decision, Kuwait has reopened its doors to expatriates seeking to apply for family visas, enabling them to sponsor their spouses and children once again. The Ministry of Interior, in response to directives from Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah, has announced the resumption of expatriate family visa applications nationwide, along with the introduction of new terms and standards.

New Guidelines Introduced Under Ministerial Decree No. 56 of 2024

Under the provisions of Ministerial Decree No. 56 of 2024, which delineates updated guidelines for issuing entry permits for family reunions, expatriates aiming for Kuwait family visas must adhere to a set of criteria. These include a minimum salary threshold of KD800 ($2,600), possession of a university degree certificate, and employment in a field matching the one indicated on the university certificate.

Exemptions and Revisions to Criteria

Certain professions are exempt from the stringent degree certificate requirements, as recent reports in local media have highlighted revisions to the initial rules. Professions such as advisors, judges, prosecutors, medical professionals, educators, engineers, and media professionals, among others, are exempt from the degree-related constraints.

Special Considerations for Families with Young Children

Parents of children under the age of five benefit from special considerations, exempt from the salary requirements. This exemption recognizes the unique needs and circumstances of young families, providing flexibility in the application process.

Background on Visa Suspension and Reinstatement

Approximately two years ago, Kuwait suspended family visas for expatriates as part of a broader initiative to regulate population and demographic numbers within the country. The reinstatement comes with a renewed focus on ensuring that specific conditions, including minimum salary and employment rules, are met by applicants.

A Forward-Thinking Approach

As Kuwait opens its doors once again to expatriate families, the revised guidelines aim to strike a balance between welcoming diversity and maintaining regulatory control. The decision to resume family visa applications reflects a forward-thinking approach, acknowledging the contributions of expatriates while aligning with the evolving needs of Kuwait’s demographic landscape.

The United Kingdom has announced significant revisions to its visa regulations, set to take effect on January 31, 2024. In a move aimed at enhancing both business opportunities and tourism, holders of tourist visas will now be permitted to work within the country.

Under the updated guidelines, employees of companies operating both in the UK and internationally can undertake work involving clients abroad. However, this work must constitute only a minor aspect of their responsibilities outside the UK and must be integral to a project or service based in the UK. While remote work is permissible, the primary purpose of the visit must not be remote employment.

The UK government will also extend permissions for scientists, researchers, and academics conducting research within the country. Exceptions include academics who may apply for a 12-month visit visa, with the option to seek extensions while in the UK. Additionally, lawyers will have the opportunity to engage in various activities such as providing legal advice, acting as expert witnesses, participating in legal proceedings, and teaching.

In a bid to streamline processes, the Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visitor route will be incorporated into the Standard Visitor route. This integration eliminates the need for a separate visa for individuals involved in paid engagements, provided that such engagements are arranged within 30 days of arrival.

The revisions follow the earlier commitment made by Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt to expand business visitor regulations. This expansion aims to afford business professionals a wider array of approved activities, including participation in paid engagements, thereby facilitating increased business opportunities within the UK