Kuwait introduces multiple-trip exit permits for expat

Kuwait has officially launched a new system allowing multiple-trip exit permits for expatriate workers, marking a significant shift in the country’s labor and travel regulations. Announced by the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM), this digital initiative aims to modernize administrative processes and improve flexibility for the private sector workforce. In the past employees had to get a single-use permit when leaving their office which caused a lot of unnecessary paperwork on the part of the employer and time wastage by the employee.

The new system comes into effect as of now as it allows authorized signatories to grant one permit with multiple journeys within a given time. This step will resolve the long-standing dissatisfaction with the inflexibility of the previously existing exit authorization procedure and will correspond to the overall vision of digital transformation of Kuwait through the New Kuwait 2035.

Multiple-Trip Exit Permits via Ashal and Sahel

The process of application is completely computerized to make it efficient. Employers can now apply for multiple-trip exit permits directly through the “Ashal” portal for companies or the government’s unified “Sahel” application. The system is fully connected with the database of the Ministry of Interior so that the officials in the border control have the possibility to see the valid travel permissions in real time. This integration eliminates the need for physical paperwork at airport checkpoints, streamlining the departure experience for expatriate workers.

Public Authority for Manpower Enhances Oversight

While offering greater flexibility, the Public Authority for Manpower maintains that this system preserves essential employer oversight. Employers can still assign, revoke, or amend these permits electronically giving them the opportunity to control the availability of workforce and minimize the administrative bottlenecks. The balance is set to support the rights of the employers and the freedom of the workers.