E-Paper
Sign In
Kuwait extends visit visas, absence permit free of cost amid Iranian attack
All types of visit and entry visas that have expired or are due to expire during this period will be automatically extended for one month, starting Saturday, February 28
- PUBLISHED: Wed 4 Mar 2026, 4:12 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid Israeli, US strikes on Iran for the latest regional developments.]
Kuwait's Ministry of Interior has announced an automatic one-month extension of visit visas and the granting of an additional three-month absence permit for residents currently outside Kuwait.
Recommended For You
This decision was taken because of the recent rise in conflict, with Iran firing missiles and drones at Gulf states. Travel has been disrupted, and airspace restrictions were put in place. Authorities took into account that many residents might not be able to return to Kuwait on time due to cancelled or delayed flights.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Visit-visa extension
According to the authority, all types of visit and entry visas that have expired or are due to expire during this period will be automatically extended for one month, starting Saturday, February 28. The extension will be applied electronically, and people do not have to visit the residency affairs departments. The Ministry confirmed that all fees and fines will be fully waived during this period.
Absence permits
Residents outside Kuwait who have exceeded their permitted absence period and are unable to return to the country will be automatically granted a three-month absence permit through the electronic system, with no in-person processing required and full exemption from fees.
An absence permit (or approval to stay abroad) in Kuwait is an authorisation required for expats, typically arranged via the Sahel app or Residency Affairs departments, to remain outside the country for more than six months without invalidating their residency. Recent rules, such as Ministerial Decision No. 2249 of 2025, strictly limit absence to 6 months for most and 4 months for domestic workers, unless officially approved.
The Ministry of Interior noted that these periods may be further extended depending on developments in the country’s situation and urged everyone to follow official channels for the latest updates.
The Ministry concluded with a message of protection: “May Allah safeguard Kuwait, its people, and everyone living on its land from all harm.”
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
