TL; Dr:
- Kuwait reopened his better E -in Visa portal in January 2025, allowing some GCC are -based residents to apply online or get on ‘Visa’.
- Eligible applicants should wear one
GCC The 6+ month residence, a legitimate passport, and works in specified professional categories such as doctors, engineers, teachers, journalists and business managers. - Excluded citizens should apply through diplomatic channels.
- E, the cost of Visa starts with 3 kwd ($ 10), processed within 1-3 business days, valid for 90 days, and gives grants until 30, day.
What has changed: The platform opened again, the rules streamlined
After a temporary suspension in December 2024 for the system upgrade, Kuwait resumed its Kuwait visa portal in early 2025. The upgraded system digitally offers a streamlined e ‘Visa applications, especially for residents living in GCC. This step is part of Kuwait’s comprehensive initiative to modernize immigration processes, promote regional travel and preserve national security standards and promote transparency.
Who is eligible?
Application criteria for GCC expats include:
- Residency permit in GCC (UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain) is valid for at least 6 months.
- Passport for at least 6 months beyond the date of travel.
- The profession listed on the Emirates ID (or equivalent GCC ID) should match the approved category like doctor, engineer, teacher, journalist, business manager, etc.
- Clean legal and immigration records.
Excluded nationalities should apply through Kuwaiti missions.
Application phase and documentation
Applicant needs:
- Visit the official Kuwait Visa registration website, select GCC Resident/Tourist E -Wissa option.
- Create an account with email, phone number and safe password.
- Upload auxiliary documents: Passport Bio Page, GCC Residency Page, Recently Passport Photo, Housing or Hotel Booking proof, and return tickets.
- Enter professional business as listed on GCC Niwas ID.
- 3 kwd fees ($ 10)) pay online.
- Track the application, approval usually takes 1-3 commercial days.
- For immigration clearance, present a printed copy of e ‘Visa on arrival in Kuwait.
Once released, E ‘Visa is valid for 90 days and allows to remain in an entry of up to 30 days.
Visa on arrival option
Eligible GCC resident airline can choose the option of visa on arrival on the basis of discretion. Airlines like Emirates and Jazeera Air have approved boarding passengers with valid GCC visas and matching professional categories, although Kuwait Airways can implement strict rules.
Reference: Big picture and update
This update Access aligns with Kuwait’s widespread regional strategy, including the upcoming rollout of the integrated GCC Tourist Visa (“GCC Grand Tours Visa” in early 2025 or 2026. This single-entry visa will cover the journey in all six GCC countries for tourism purposes. Kuwait also continues to maintain strict punishment for improper or inappropriate use of visas, with a possible restriction for fines and violations up to KD 2,000.The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is looking at a rapid change in travel policies as members try to promote regional tourism and economic integration. While countries like UAE and Saudi Arabia have introduced long -term tourism and trade visas to attract global talent and visitors, Kuwait has traditionally maintained strict entry protocol. However, with the implementation of Vision 2035, the National Development Roadmap of Kuwait, officials are now actively modernizing administrative systems, including digitization of immigration services. The simplified EVISA program is part of these reforms, which aims to make the country more accessible to GCC-based migrants and regional tourists.
why it matters
- Greater accessibility: In businesses like medical, education, journalism, or management, GCC residents can now apply directly to their host country.
- Motion and simplicity: Digital approval improves the flexibility of travel in less than 3 days.
- Tourism boost: Regional trade and leisure makes access to passengers easier.
- Impartial but firm policy: Eligibility rules and exclusion help to balance openness with legal and safety standards.
For GCC residents, Kuwait’s revival e IS WISA system is an important step in simplifying regional travel, especially for qualified professionals who live and work in GCC nations. With clear eligibility criteria, cheap fees, rapid changes and visa-on-back options, the process is now more inclusive and efficient. This reflects the increasing commitment to modernizing Kuwait’s immigration systems, facilitating regional mobility without compromising compliance and safety.
