Kuwait opens visa-on-arrival facility for GCC residents

Kuwait has introduced new visa regulations allowing residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to obtain a tourist visa on arrival, effective immediately.

The measure, announced by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, was published on Sunday in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Youm under Ministerial Decision No. 1386 of 2025.

Eligible applicants must hold a valid residence permit in a GCC country for at least six months to qualify for the facility. The change replaces Decision No. 1228 of 2008, which previously governed the entry of GCC residents under similar provisions.

The Ministry of Interior said the new regulation is in line with Decree Law No. 114 of 2024 on the residence of foreigners. The undersecretary of the ministry has been tasked with implementing the decision, which aims to boost tourism and strengthen Kuwait’s ties with neighbouring Gulf states.