Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Exit Permit in Kuwait
A Complete Guide for Expatriates to Get an ‘Exit Permit’ for Travel in Kuwait | Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Exit Permit in Kuwait
Kuwait City, Wednesday, June 11, 2025
In a significant update for expatriates in Kuwait, the government has announced that, starting July 1st, 2025, all private sector workers under Article 18 will be required to obtain an Exit Permit before leaving the country. This new regulation aims to streamline the travel process while ensuring the protection of both workers’ and employers’ rights.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how expatriates in Kuwait can get their Exit Permit hassle-free:
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Exit Permit in Kuwait
- Understand the New Exit Permit Requirement
From July 1st onwards, expatriates under Article 18 (private sector workers) must have an Exit Permit before traveling out of Kuwait. The decision, as per the Public Authority for Manpower, ensures that workers and employers follow a clear and transparent travel process.
How to Request an Exit Permit Through the Sahel App Step by Step Guide | iiQ8
- Submit Your Exit Permit Request via Sahel App or Ashal Portal
The process to get your Exit Permit is incredibly easy. You can submit your request in just a few clicks via either of the two platforms:
- Sahel App (for individual employees)
- Ashal Portal (for the workforce management system)
Simply log in and fill out your travel details. The Sahel App is available for both Android and iOS users, making it convenient for expatriates.
Kuwait New Travel Rule: Expat Workers Need Employer Exit Permits from July 2025
- Employer Reviews and Approves Your Request
Once you submit your exit request, it’s time for your employer to review and approve it. This approval is necessary for the process to move forward. Employers will use the Sahel Business or Ashal service for companies to approve your exit request.
- Your employer must grant permission for the exit, and if granted, the system will automatically generate the permit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Exit Permit in Kuwait
- Receive and Access Your Exit Permit
After approval from your employer, your Exit Permit will be ready. You can access the permit in real-time through your Sahel App. The exit permit will appear in your account, and you can either:
- Download and print the permit.
- Show it directly from the Sahel App when you reach the airport.
It’s a quick, digital process that eliminates paperwork and long waits.
- Emergency Travel Requests
In case of an emergency, your employer can submit the exit permit request on your behalf. The system allows for urgent requests 24/7, ensuring that there are no delays even in critical situations.
- Employer Refusal and Dispute Resolution
If your employer refuses to grant the exit permit, you are entitled to seek further assistance. You can contact the labor relations unit in your company or file a complaint with the relevant authorities according to the legal procedures.
- No Limitations on Number of Exit Permits
The good news is that there is no limit on the number of exit permits you can request per year. As long as the employer approves the request, the system allows for an unrestricted number of permits.
How to Request an Exit Permit Through the Sahel App Step by Step Guide | iiQ8
Why the Exit Permit Requirement Matters
This new system is designed to safeguard the rights of both workers and employers while simplifying the travel process. It aims to:
- Ensure transparency in employee travel.
- Protect employers by ensuring employees are not absent without proper approval.
- Provide workers with a streamlined, digital method for obtaining travel permits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Exit Permit in Kuwait
The Exit Permit system in Kuwait provides a modern and efficient way for expatriates under Article 18 to travel without complications. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can ensure smooth and timely approval of your travel requests.
Stay updated on any changes and be sure to use the Sahel App or Ashal Portal for your Exit Permit needs. Safe travels!
This guide provides all the details you need to comply with the new Exit Permit regulations in Kuwait. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to the appropriate authorities for clarification.
Request Exit Permit via Sahel App
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Download the Sahel App:
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Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
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Open the App:
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Launch the Sahel app on your smartphone.
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Change Language to Arabic:
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Tap the globe icon in the upper-left corner.
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Select Arabic from the language options.
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User Arabic Language in the Sahel App and choose Services – Public Authority of Manpower
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Log In:
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Enter your Civil ID.
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Accept the terms and conditions.
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Authenticate using the Kuwait Mobile ID App.
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Enter your app PIN code and submit.
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Navigate to Services:
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Tap on خدمات (Services) in the bottom menu.
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Scroll through the list and select الهيئة العامة للقوى العاملة (Public Authority of Manpower).
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Choose خدمة العمالة الوافدة (Expatriate Labor Service).
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Request Exit Permit:
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Tap on إصدار إذن خروج (Issuing Exit Permit).
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Fill in the required details, including your exit and expected return dates.
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Once completed, your application will be automatically sent to your employer for approval.
- Choose the from and to dates in the selected fields.
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Confirmation:
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After your employer approves the request, the exit permit will be issued.
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If your employer fails to respond or denies the request without a valid reason, you may contact the Public Authority for Manpower to file a complaint.
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Application will be submitted to the employer for approval (where the person is working the company)
How to Request an Exit Permit Through the Sahel App Step by Step Guide | iiQ8
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Employer Approval: Ensure your employer has completed the necessary steps to activate your digital exit permit.
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Travel Restrictions: Verify that there are no travel bans or legal issues that might affect your exit.
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App Language: If the app defaults to Arabic and you wish to use it in English, changing your device’s language settings to English before opening the app may help.
Kuwait Requires Exit Permits for Expat Workers in Private Sector.. #Kuwait The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, has issued a ministerial circular mandating that expatriate workers in the private sector obtain an “Exit Permit” from their registered employers before leaving the country. The Public Authority for Manpower confirmed that this move is a regulatory measure aimed at strengthening oversight of expatriate labor mobility and ensuring a balance between the rights of workers and employers. #الكويت