The Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait (PAM), commonly associated with the work permit document known as the Shoon, is the government body regulating the private-sector labor market in the State of Kuwait. Responsible for issuing and renewing work permits (Izn Amal), transferring employees between sponsors, managing labor complaints, and protecting worker rights, the Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait plays a central role in every expatriate’s employment journey. This complete 2026 guide explains the work permit system, how to check your Shoon online, the transfer (job change) process, labor complaint procedures, and the Ashal / Sahel digital services.
Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait (PAM) – Key Details
| Authority Name | Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) |
|---|---|
| Sector Regulated | Private-sector employment & work permits |
| Key Document | Work Permit (Izn Amal / Shoon) |
| Core Services | Permit issue/renewal, sponsor transfer, labor complaints |
| Digital Platforms | Ashal App, Sahel App & PAM online portal |
| Labor Complaint Support | Dedicated labor relations departments per governorate |
| Official Website | www.manpower.gov.kw |
About the Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait
The Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait oversees the relationship between private-sector employers and expatriate employees. The work permit it issues, known as the Shoon paper, is a critical document that states your employer, job title (profession), and salary. This information directly affects your eligibility for family visa sponsorship, driving license applications, and various other government services. Understanding how PAM works helps expatriate workers protect their rights and manage job transfers smoothly.
Explore related expat procedures in our Kuwait Government & Embassy Services Directory.
Understanding the Work Permit (Shoon)
The work permit (Izn Amal) is the official authorization allowing an expatriate to work legally for a specific private-sector employer in Kuwait. Key details recorded on the Shoon include:
- Employer / Sponsor Name: The company legally sponsoring your residency.
- Job Title (Profession): Your official designation, which affects family visa and driving license eligibility.
- Salary: The registered monthly salary, which is the figure used for government eligibility thresholds.
- Permit Validity: The start and expiry dates aligned with your residency.
How to Check Your Work Permit (Shoon) Online
- Download the Ashal App (the PAM digital services app) or use the Sahel App.
- Log in using your Civil ID and authentication method.
- Navigate to the work permit / labor information section.
- View your current employer, profession, salary, and permit validity, and download the official Shoon document as a PDF when needed.
The Employee Transfer (Job Change) Process
Expatriate workers in the private sector can transfer from one employer to another under PAM regulations, subject to conditions that change periodically. The general process involves:
- New Employer Offer: Secure a job offer and agreement from the new sponsor.
- Check Transfer Eligibility: Confirm you meet the current transfer rules (which may relate to time spent with the current employer, release/no-objection requirements, and permit type).
- Apply via Digital Services: The new employer initiates the transfer request through PAM’s electronic system.
- Employee Approval: The employee approves the transfer digitally (often via the Sahel or Ashal apps).
- Complete Residency Update: After the work permit transfer, the residency is updated with the Ministry of Interior, and the Civil ID is renewed to reflect the new sponsor.
Because transfer rules and any applicable fees or release conditions change frequently, always verify the current regulations with PAM before resigning from your current job.
Filing a Labor Complaint with PAM
If an employer violates your rights — for example through non-payment of salary, refusal to renew residency, or unfair dismissal — you can file a labor complaint with the Public Authority for Manpower:
- Gather evidence: employment contract, salary records, work permit copy, and any relevant communication.
- Submit a complaint through the PAM online complaint system or visit the labor relations department in your governorate.
- Attend the scheduled mediation session between you and the employer.
- If mediation fails, the case may be referred to the labor court for legal resolution.
Indian workers can also seek parallel support through the Embassy’s welfare wing and the MADAD portal, as explained in our Embassy of India Kuwait guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the focus keyword for this guide?
The recommended focus keyword is Public Authority for Manpower Kuwait.
2. What is the Shoon paper in Kuwait?
The Shoon is the common name for the work permit (Izn Amal) issued by the Public Authority for Manpower. It states your employer, job title, and salary, and is required for many government services.
3. How can I check my salary and profession registered with the government?
You can check your registered salary, profession, and employer through the Ashal App or Sahel App under the labor/work permit section.
4. Can I change my job in Kuwait without my current employer’s permission?
Transfer rules, including any release or no-objection requirements, change periodically. Verify the current PAM transfer regulations before making any decision.
Work permit rules, transfer conditions, and labor regulations are governed by the Public Authority for Manpower and change frequently. Verify current requirements on manpower.gov.kw before acting.
