Kuwait's Ministry of Interior has confirmed that the special visa and leave permit arrangements introduced during the US and Israel versus Iran conflict will be discontinued, with standard immigration rules taking effect from September 1, 2026. The announcement, published on August 20, 2026, affects three categories of immigration status which will revert to pre-war conditions on that date.
Visit Visa Holders in Kuwait Face Standard Rules
Foreign nationals currently inside Kuwait on a visit visa will no longer receive automatic extensions of any kind, according to the Ministry of Interior, as reported by Khaleej Times. The ministry stated that the legal durations, procedures, and regulations that governed entry visas before the exceptional period will be reinstated. Visitors must comply with those original rules starting September 1, 2026.
This means that any visit visa holder who had been relying on the automatic extension provisions during the conflict period must now ensure their stay aligns with the standard visa duration and conditions. The ministry did not specify a grace period for those who may have overstayed under the previous exceptional rules.
New Leave Permit Rules for Residents Outside Kuwait
For Kuwaiti residents currently abroad, the ministry said standard leave permit durations will also be reinstated. However, residents who left the country on or before August 31, 2026, will still benefit from the additional grace period provided under the exceptional rules, in line with the relevant regulations.
The ministry clarified that the residency permit certificate available through the "Sahl" application is the official and approved reference that residents must use to determine when their leave permit expires. Residents are required to return to Kuwait within the timeframe shown on that certificate to avoid any violations.
How to Check Permit Status and Avoid Overstay
The announcement signals a full return to Kuwait's standard immigration framework following the period of conflict that prompted the temporary measures. Those affected are advised to check their permit status through the "Sahl" application ahead of the September 1 deadline to avoid any overstay violations.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Kuwait published an updated list of 52 countries whose citizens are eligible to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival, making it easier for travellers from the approved nations to enter the Gulf country for short-term visits. The visa-on-arrival facility allows eligible visitors to receive a tourist visa when they land in Kuwait, provided they meet the country's entry requirements.
