Kuwait to End Temporary Visa Extensions Starting September 1, 2026

Kuwait's Ministry of Interior has announced that from September 1, 2026, all temporary visa extension provisions will be discontinued. This decision affects both visitors currently in Kuwait and expatriate residents abroad.

The temporary relief measures were initially introduced earlier in 2026 due to regional airspace closures and travel disruptions caused by the conflict between the United States and Iran. These disruptions left many travellers stranded, prompting Kuwait to automatically extend visit visas and issue special absence permits to residents unable to return on time.

Key Changes Effective September 1

• All visitors in Kuwait must now adhere strictly to their original visa validity periods, as automatic extensions will no longer be granted.
• Expatriate residents outside Kuwait who have been relying on temporary three-month absence permits must ensure their documents comply with the reinstated standard visa requirements.
• The residency permit status certificate available via the Sahel app, Kuwait’s official government electronic platform, will serve as the authoritative source for leave permit expiry dates.

Transitional Provision

Residents who depart Kuwait on or before August 31, 2026 will still be eligible for a final exceptional extension under the transitional arrangement. Those leaving after this date will no longer qualify for this concession and must comply with the normal visa regulations.

The Ministry has urged all affected individuals to meet the relevant deadlines to avoid violations related to residency or immigration status.