New Expatriates Residence Law
New Expatriates Residence Law Effective from Sunday: Heavy Fines for Violations
Kuwait City, 7th January 2025:
Starting Sunday, the new expatriate residence law (Decree No. 114/2024) will be officially enforced, according to a recent announcement by the Ministry of Interior (MoI). This new regulation introduces stricter guidelines for expatriates living in the country, along with hefty fines for those found violating certain residency rules.
Key Provisions of the New Residency Law
In a statement, the MOI Ministry of Interior Kuwait – emphasized that the law includes several important provisions for expatriates and sets out penalties for non-compliance in various scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of the major points:
1. Failure to Report a New Birth:
One of the most notable changes under the new law is related to the reporting of new births. Parents are required to report the birth of a child within four months of the event. Failure to do so will result in penalties. According to Provision 6, the fines will be as follows:
– KD 2 for each day of delay during the first month.
– KD 4 per day for delays after the first month.
– The maximum fine for this violation is capped at KD 2,000.
2. Residency Restrictions for Certain Visa Holders:
Article 9 of the new law restricts foreigners from obtaining a residency permit under certain conditions. This includes individuals who enter the country with the following visa types:
– Work visa
– Family reunion visa
– Student visa
– Temporary government contract visa
– Treatment visa
If a foreigner overstays their visa under these circumstances, a settlement payment will be required:
– KD 2 for each delay day during the first month.
– KD 4 per day thereafter.
– The maximum fine is set at KD 1,200.
3. Domestic Worker Residency Violations:
The law also addresses issues related to domestic workers. For any irregularities concerning domestic workers’ residency status, the fines will be:
– KD 2 for each day of delay.
– The maximum fine for such cases is capped at KD 600.
4. Visa Expiry and Overstay Penalties:
For expatriates who overstay their visas, the law specifies the following penalties:
– KD 10 for each day that the visa validity has expired.
The new expatriate residence law introduces stricter regulations and substantial fines for those who fail to comply with the reporting and residency requirements. It is important for expatriates in the country to familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid unnecessary fines and complications.
Stay informed and ensure that all paperwork, including visa extensions and birth registrations, is handled within the designated timelines to avoid penalties under this new law.
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New Expatriates Residence Law 2025 | Heavy Fines for Violations
