The Kuwaiti government has established clear and structured guidelines for expatriates seeking to obtain family visit visas for their relatives. The process includes specific financial requirements, documentation, and verification steps to ensure transparency and legal compliance.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and application process for family visit visas in Kuwait as of 2025.
1. Eligibility and Visa Fees
Expatriates residing in Kuwait can apply for family visit visas for their close relatives, with fees varying based on the relationship:
| Relationship | Visa Fee (KWD) |
|---|---|
| Spouse, Children, or Parents | 400 KWD |
| Brothers or Sisters | 800 KWD |
| Other Relatives | Requires prior approval from immigration (Jawaazat) |
Note:
- The sponsor must have a valid residency permit (Iqama) and meet financial stability requirements.
- The visiting relative must hold a passport with at least six months’ validity.
2. Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents for a family visit visa:
For Spouse:
- Marriage certificate (attested by the Pakistan Embassy in Kuwait and Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Sponsor’s valid Civil ID and work permit
- Return flight ticket (booked via Jazeera Airways or Kuwait Airways)
For Children/Parents:
- Family Registration Certificate (FRC) issued by NADRA (for Pakistani nationals)
- Birth certificates (for children)
- Passport copies of both sponsor and applicant
For Siblings & Other Relatives:
- Relationship certificate (attested by the embassy and Kuwaiti authorities)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable, must be in Arabic and attested)
- Special approval from Kuwait’s General Department of Immigration
3. Application Process
Step 1: Online Appointment Booking
- Schedule an appointment via Kuwait’s official apps:
- Meta (Kuwait Mobile ID)
- Sahel (Kuwait Government’s unified app)
Step 2: Submission of Documents
- Visit the General Department of Immigration (Jawaazat) with all required documents.
- Pay the visa fee (3 KWD) for processing.
Step 3: Visa Issuance
- Once approved, a one-month visit visa is issued.
- The sponsor must sign an affidavit stating they will not convert the visit visa into a residency permit (Iqama).
Step 4: Entry and Stay in Kuwait
- The visitor must enter Kuwait within the visa’s validity period.
- Extensions may be possible through the immigration department.
4. Important Notes
- Overstaying is prohibited and may lead to fines or deportation.
- Visa conversion to residency is illegal without proper channels.
- Medical insurance may be required depending on the visa type.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I sponsor my in-laws on a family visit visa?
- Yes, but it requires prior approval from immigration and additional documentation.
Q2: How long does the visa processing take?
- Typically 5-7 working days, but delays may occur during peak seasons.
Q3: Can I extend the family visit visa?
- Yes, extensions are possible by applying at the Jawaazat office before expiry.
Q4: What if my relative overstays the visa?
- Penalties apply, including fines and possible travel bans.
6. Conclusion
The Kuwaiti government has streamlined the family visit visa process to ensure compliance while facilitating family reunions for expatriates. By following the correct documentation and application steps, applicants can avoid delays or rejections.
For the latest updates, always refer to the Kuwait Ministry of Interior’s official website or contact the Pakistani Embassy in Kuwait for attestation assistance.
