Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has clarified that visa information circulating on social media regarding visa openings to specific countries is false.
In addition, the Ministry has emphasized that all visa decisions will only be communicated through its official channels, VisaGuide.World reports.
The Ministry has urged persons to refer to only credible sources regularly and check the Ministry’s website.
The announcement of Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior comes following rumors circulating regarding the acceptance of visa applications from all nationalities, also taking into account those from restricted countries such as Syria, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, and Pakistan, among others.
However, these applications are subject to stricter rules, such as security screenings, and upon clearance, applicants may be granted approval for either a tourist or a family visa.
Local media reports note that applicants must personally submit their applications taking into account their residential address as indicated on their civil ID.
In addition, the Ministry of the Interior has announced the opening of applications for tourist, family, and commercial visits under new conditions, with prior appointments required through the Meta platform.
2017’s Suspension of Visa Issuance to Iraqis, Syrians, Pakistanis, Afghanis, & Iranians
Back in 2017, authorities in Kuwait decided to suspend the issuance of visas for nationals of Iraq, Syria, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.
The decision came following former US President Donald Trump’s executive order banning seven Muslim-majority countries.
Trump’s executive order consisted of banning the entry of refugees from all over the world for a period of 120 days, while all immigration from the so-called countries with terrorism concerns would be suspended for 90 days. The countries included in the US ban were Iran, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Libya.
However, authorities in Kuwait announced other visa changes earlier this month.
The country announced a significant expansion of eligibility criteria for family visas starting from January 28 this year.
The new decision was taken as part of the country’s efforts to strengthen the workforce and foster a more inclusive environment.
The revived policy includes spouses and children of a diverse group of skilled foreign nationals currently residing in this country, subject to meeting specified education standards and also minimum salary requirements.
According to local media reports, the new changes were introduced in order to attract talented professionals as well as skilled workers from overseas countries, thus further helping the growth of the country’s economy.