Family Visa Kuwait: Latest Guide for Expatriates in 2024

Benefits of Family Visa Kuwait

Here are a few key benefits of a family visa Kuwait.

1. Allows family members to join and live with the main visa holder in Kuwait.

2. Provides access to Kuwait’s healthcare and education systems.

3. Offers a pathway to permanent residency and potential citizenship after meeting requirements.

4. Allows multiple entries in the country with ease.

5. Gives the opportunity to find work in the country legally.

Latest Facts and News:

• Kuwait resumed family visa issuance in January 2024 after a suspension since August 2022

• New minimum salary requirements: KWD 800 for sponsoring spouse and children

• Expanded eligibility criteria for various professions

• Special considerations for children under 5 years old

Understanding Family Visa Kuwait

The family visa Kuwait is a type of visa that allows family members to come and stay in Kuwait. The sponsor of the visa must have a valid work permit or residence permit in Kuwait in order to be eligible for this visa type. The visa is typically part of Kuwait's family reunification program, and it grants the dependent the right to live in Kuwait alongside their sponsor.

It usually takes around 4-8 weeks to process the application for a Kuwait family visa depending upon your country. The visa has a limit of up to 1-3 years, and after that, it can be renewed again as per the requirements. The family members can be the spouse, children or legal partner of the sponsor. They must have proof of relationship with the sponsor in order to get the family visa to Kuwait. 

Eligibility Criteria for Family Visa Kuwait

Here’s the eligibility requirements that need to be met in order to get the family visa Kuwait.

1. Sponsor’s Eligibility

The sponsor for the visa must be a legal resident member of Kuwait. They must hold a valid residence permit or visa. This could be a work visa, student visa, or permanent residence permit. Apart from that, the sponsor must provide proof of accommodation where the dependent can stay.

2. Dependent’s Eligibility

The dependent must be a legitimate family member of the sponsor in order to get the family visa Kuwait. The dependent can either be a spouse, child (under age 18) or legal partner of the sponsor. This is mandatory for getting the family visa Kuwait.

3. Proof of Relationship

The dependent must have some proof of relationship for applying for the family visa Kuwait. The evidence can be a marriage certificate or child birth certificate. 

4. Proof of Financial Stability

The sponsor and dependent must provide proof of financial funds. This is to ensure that the sponsor is financially stable and can take care of the dependent’s living expenses in Kuwait. 

Also Read: Average Salary in Dubai for Software Engineers

Family Visa Kuwait Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide for the application process for a family visa Kuwait.

1. Check Eligibility

Check the eligibility criteria and make sure that you fulfil all the requirements. Ensure that your sponsor lives in Kuwait on a valid residence permit. The sponsor can be your spouse, parent or any other family member. The dependent visa is only issued to spouses, registered partners and children under the age of 18.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Prepare all the required documents for family visa Kuwait. The documents generally include visa application form, a valid passport, passport-size photographs, proof of relationship, proof of financial support, marriage certificate, birth certificate and sponsor’s residence permit.

3. Submit the Application

Submit the application form for a family visa in Kuwait with the help of any Kuwait visa embassy of your home country, such as TerraTern in India. Applications can be submitted through online portals such as Kuwait e-Government.

4. Visa Fees

Pay the visa fees for family visa Kuwait. The fees differ based on your home country. The fee structure also may vary based on the type of family members being sponsored and the duration of the visa.

5. Wait for Processing

After the submission of all the papers and documents, wait for the results. The approval of the visa might take around 4-8 weeks. So apply well in advance keeping the time limit in mind.

Family Visa Kuwait Cost

Here’s an overview for family visa Kuwait cost.

Note: This data is as per the latest research of our team members.

Required Documents for Family Visa Kuwait 

Here’s a list of documents required to apply for a family visa Kuwait.

• Visa Application Form

• Passport

• Proof of Relationship

• Proof of Legal Residency

• Proof of Financial Stability

• Accommodation Proof

• Proof of Income of the Sponsor

• Health Insurance

• Police Clearance Certificate

Limitations and Restrictions of Kuwait Family Visas Holders

Here are the few limitations and restrictions of family visa Kuwait holders.

1. Sponsorship Requirement

The sponsor must meet a minimum salary requirement of around KD 800 per month. This is mandatory for issuing the family visa Kuwait.

2. Employment Restriction

Family visa holders (dependents) cannot work in Kuwait without transferring their visa to a work visa. If they wish to take up employment, they must secure a job offer and apply for a work permit.

3. Duration of Stay

The family visa is usually issued with a one-year validity, although it can be renewed annually. Also, if the sponsor leaves Kuwait or cancels their residency permit, the family members' visas are also cancelled.

4. Travel Restrictions

Family visa holders can travel in and out of Kuwait, but their visa can be void if they remain outside Kuwait for more than six consecutive months.

5. Health Insurance

All family visa holders must have valid health insurance in Kuwait. This insurance covers access to public healthcare facilities.

Family Visa Kuwait Processing Time

Here’s a table showcasing the processing time for family visa Kuwait.

Note: This data is based on the latest research by our team members.

Recent Changes in Kuwait Family Visa Regulations

Here are a few recent changes in regulations of family visa Kuwait.

1. Increased Salary Threshold

The minimum salary requirement to sponsor family visas has risen to KD 800, which is up from the previous threshold of KD 550.

2. Exemptions for Young Children

Parents can apply for family visas for children under the age of five without meeting the new salary threshold. This is only applicable if both parents are residents of Kuwait.

3. University Degree Requirement

Foreign residents applying for family visas must have a university degree that aligns with their profession in Kuwait. Specific professions like medical professionals, engineers, and educators are exempted from this requirement.

4. Restriction on Other Family Members

The new rules apply primarily to spouses and children. Other family members, such as parents or siblings, are not eligible for a family visa Kuwait.

5. Nationality Restrictions

Certain nationalities, including Iraqi, Syrian, Afghan, and others, face restrictions or delays in the processing of family visa Kuwait applications.

Read Also: Work Visa for Gulf Countries: Latest Expert's Guide

Tips for a Successful Family Visa Kuwait Application

Here are a few tips for a successful family visa Kuwait application.

1. Ensure Document Accuracy

Double-check all documents for accuracy to avoid delays or rejections. Cross-verify all the information for a successful family visa Kuwait application. 

2. Professional Assistance

Consider hiring a visa consultant or legal advisor specialising in Kuwaiti immigration to navigate through the family visa Kuwait application process.

3. Timely Renewals

Be aware of the expiration dates of visas and residency permits so you can apply for renewals in a timely manner.

4. Stay Informed

Immigration policies keep changing. Regularly check official Kuwaiti government websites or consult with your employer to stay updated on any changes affecting the family visa Kuwait.

5. Embassy Help

Contact the Kuwaiti Embassy or Consulate in your home country for guidance and assistance with the application process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the family visa Kuwait is very beneficial for the family members of individuals residing in Kuwait. It enables the family members of individuals residing in Kuwait to join them and live together in the country. It is designed to support family reunification by granting the dependents the right to reside in Kuwait. The visa provides rights to the dependents, such as access to healthcare and education and renewal of their visas. It also gives them the option to extend their visa limit after it expires. Apart from that, the visa holders also have the chance to convert their visa into work or student visa if they meet the necessary requirements. The family visa Kuwait is a great way for individuals to move abroad and settle there.

If you’re planning to move to Kuwait and have a sponsor there, then this is the guide for you. Contact TerraTern today to get help with your moving process. Visa Fee Payment Receipt