Kuwait has launched a new long-term residency programme that will allow eligible foreign investors and their families to obtain residency permits for up to 15 years, marking one of the country’s most significant steps to attract foreign capital and strengthen its investment climate.
The new residency framework, announced on June 15, forms part of Kuwait’s broader effort to position itself as a leading regional destination for investment and diversify its economy beyond oil revenues. Authorities said the initiative aims to provide long-term certainty for investors seeking to establish and expand businesses in the Gulf state.
Under the new rules, residency permits of up to 15 years will be available to qualified foreign investors, their immediate family members, accredited senior executives and approved partners linked to investment entities operating in Kuwait.
Strict Eligibility Conditions
To qualify, investors must own investment entities licensed by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA). They must also maintain active business operations in Kuwait, meet employment requirements for Kuwaiti nationals and invest in approved economic activities with a minimum capital of KD1 million.
In addition, licensed entities must maintain an investment value of at least KD5 million. Applicants must hold valid passports, provide criminal record certificates and comply with registration requirements set by relevant authorities.
The residency permits will be issued through Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior based on recommendations from KDIPA under Cabinet Resolution No. 651 of 2026. The framework was published in the official gazette and developed through coordination between residency authorities and investment regulators.
Officials said the programme builds on the objectives of Law No. 116 of 2013, which governs the promotion of direct investment in Kuwait. The government hopes the new measures will strengthen the country’s legal and regulatory environment while encouraging high-value investment projects.
Kuwait Joins Regional Competition for Talent
The move places Kuwait among a growing number of Gulf countries offering long-term residency options to attract investors, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. Countries across the region have introduced similar initiatives as they compete for international talent and business investment.
The policy follows wider residency reforms introduced in Kuwait over the past year. New immigration regulations that took effect in late 2025 expanded residency periods for several categories, including investors who can now qualify for permits lasting up to 15 years.
The announcement also draws comparisons with the UAE’s Golden Visa programme, launched in 2019. The UAE scheme grants eligible investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, students and creatives residency of up to 10 years without the need for a national sponsor. It also allows holders to sponsor immediate family members.
According to Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior, the latest residency initiative aligns with the country’s leadership vision to transform Kuwait into an attractive financial and commercial centre while enhancing its competitiveness across the Gulf region. The government believes the programme will encourage long-term business commitments and support economic diversification efforts in the years ahead.
