Kuwait Launches Visa-on-Arrival for All GCC Residents, Easing Travel for Indian Expats
In a major shift aimed at promoting regional connectivity and tourism, Kuwait has rolled out a new visa-on-arrival policy for all foreign residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The move is particularly beneficial for Indian expatriates, who make up a significant portion of the workforce across the Gulf.
The updated policy, which came into effect on August 10, allows residents of GCC nations — including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman — to obtain a tourist visa directly upon arrival in Kuwait. This applies to all nationalities, provided the individual holds a valid GCC residency permit with at least six months’ validity.
Previously, Kuwait’s visa-on-arrival system was limited to certain categories of professionals, such as doctors, engineers, and business executives. The new rules, however, scrap those job-based restrictions and open the door to all eligible residents, regardless of their occupation.
A Big Win for Indian Expats
This change is a welcome development for the millions of Indian nationals living and working in GCC countries. Indian expats who meet the residency requirements can now travel to Kuwait without needing to apply for a visa in advance, making it easier to plan short trips for business, tourism, or visiting friends and family.
The simplified process also reduces paperwork and processing time, removing the need to visit a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate before traveling.
How It Works
To obtain a visa on arrival, travelers must present:
- A valid passport
- A valid residency permit from any GCC country (with a minimum of six months remaining)
The visa will be issued at any of Kuwait’s entry points — whether at the airport, land borders, or seaports. Officials have clarified that this applies only to tourist visits; those intending to work or stay long-term in Kuwait must still apply through formal visa channels.
Supporting Economic and Tourism Goals
Kuwait’s visa reform aligns with its broader “Vision 2035” strategy, which seeks to diversify the country’s economy by developing sectors like tourism, hospitality, and services. By encouraging easier travel from neighboring countries, Kuwait hopes to attract more regional visitors and boost non-oil revenues.
Tourism officials estimate that this policy could lead to a notable increase in visitor numbers, especially from cities in the Gulf where Indian expats frequently travel for leisure or family purposes.
Toward a More Unified Gulf
Kuwait’s decision reflects a wider regional trend, with other GCC countries like the UAE and Oman also streamlining their entry procedures. In fact, a unified GCC tourist visa — similar to the Schengen visa in Europe — is expected to be introduced soon, enabling seamless travel across all six member states.
For now, Kuwait’s visa-on-arrival move is a major step forward in making Gulf travel more accessible, flexible, and inclusive — especially for the Indian diaspora.
