Kuwait

WORK VISA PROCESS — KUWAIT STEP 1 — JOB OFFER Receive job offer from Kuwait employer. Confirm contract details in writing before travelling. STEP 2 — EMPLOYMENT VISA ISSUANCE Your sponsor (employer) applies for an employment visa through the Ministry of Interior. Visa number issued. STEP 3 — ARRIVAL Enter Kuwait with employment visa. Employer meets you at airport. STEP 4 — CIVIL ID (RESIDENCE PERMIT) Your employer must register you with the PACI (Public Authority for Civil Information) within 3 months. The Civil ID card is your main identification. STEP 5 — MEDICAL FITNESS TEST Blood tests and X-ray required. Done at Ministry of Health approved centers. STEP 6 — WORK PERMIT Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour issues work permit. Your employer handles this. KAFALA SYSTEM Kuwait still largely operates under the Kafala system, though reforms are underway: • Changing jobs requires employer's consent or after contract completion • Domestic workers have limited protections under main labor law • Recent reforms: Some workers can transfer sponsors with Ministry approval DOMESTIC WORKERS Kuwait has a separate law for domestic workers (Law 68/2015). Key rights: • 1 month paid leave per year • 8 hours rest per day minimum • Accommodation and food provided by employer • End of service: 1 month per year after 3 years LABOR LAW RIGHTS (Private Sector) • Annual leave: 30 days after 1 year • End of service: 15 days per year (first 5), 30 days thereafter • Probation: Max 100 days • Overtime: 1.25x normal wage COMPLAINT MECHANISM • Ministry of Social Affairs & Labour: 180 • Or visit nearest labour office • Sri Lanka Embassy Kuwait: +965-22533551