Kuwait has given a rare privilege to thousands of expatriate workers to get a change of employment legally. On May 5, 2026, the Public Authority on Manpower activated a two-month visa transfer window, as per the interpretations and applications of the provisions of the new Law.
This temporary order enables employees in the formerly restricted industries to change employers- but not until June 30, 2026. As hundreds of the transfers have already been processed on the first day, the rush has already started.
What Is the Visa Transfer Window of 2026?
The upcoming policy will be aimed at bringing some flexibility in the labor market in Kuwait. In the past, employees in some industries were bound up and could not simply choose to move to new companies.
This 60-day period temporarily lifts those restrictions, enabling the competent workers to seek improved job opportunities without breaking the Kuwait labor laws.
5 Sectors that can be transferred
The target window of the workers is mainly directed towards those industries who were considered in the past with limited mobility. Provided you work in any of the following sectors, you can make an application:
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Industrial (factories and production) sector
- Agricultural sector
- Grazing industry and livestock
- Fishing and maritime industry
This is a big change, particularly to those employees who are in need of career development or better terms of work.
Approval of the employer is obligatory
The policy may open the doors, but does not eliminate all the restrictions. The greatest then comes seeking permission from your present employer.
In contrast to a typical transfer after three years serving with your sponsor, this special window is waiting for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or digital agreement with your sponsor. In the absence of such approval, the possibility of transfer does not exist.
The authorities have also made it clear that there will be no hearing on any dispute or complaints about refusal of the consent within this period.
Don’t Miss These Stories
What are smart expat saving tips?
Explore practical money-saving strategies that help expats reduce daily expenses and survive rising costs in Gulf countries.
Why are Gulf workers facing rising costs?
Discover how increasing living expenses are impacting South Asian workers and reshaping financial stability across the Gulf.
Which GCC country is cheapest now?
Check out the most affordable GCC destination where expats can enjoy a lower cost of living without compromising lifestyle.
Where are budget-friendly GCC cities located?
Explore the top cities offering affordable living options for Indian and Asian expats across the Gulf region.
How is global inflation affecting Gulf life?
Discover how rising global inflation is influencing everyday expenses and reshaping expat lifestyles in the Gulf.
A step wise procedure of transferring your visa
Once you have obtained a new job offer, and have properly scheduled it, follow this procedure:
First, you must make sure that your new employer is registered, and he has a free labor quota. Next, get written or electronic permission from your existing sponsor.
Then your new employer will be required to fill a transfer request via the portal called As’hal. After being submitted, you must log in and your current employer has to approve the request.
You will be required to pay available fees after approval, and a possible early transfer charge of KWD 300 if you have not served three years. Lastly, full medical examinations and renewing of my residency to complete the process.
Fee and Processing time
The normal amount of the work permit transfer charge is KWD 150 and some extra charges could be charged depending on the duration of your employment.
The processing usually is carried out in 2-4 weeks, and it depends on the correctness of the documents and the promptness of the employers. Delays can be witnessed when the approvals are not established in time on the system.
Important Tips and Risks
This has a very tight schedule due to a strict deadline therefore time is of the essence. It is strongly recommended that workers do not leave their current employment until the successfulness of the transfer is realized in the system.
A rejected or not submitted application may leave you without any legal employment status. You should always ensure that your request states that it is approved before coming up with any final decision.
FAQs
Whom does the Kuwait visa transfer window, 2026, include?
All workers, who have been employed in the SME sectors, industries, farms, livestock and fisheries sectors are eligible to apply during the transfer window.
Should I have the consent of my employer to transfer?
Yes, it is required that the employer has approved it. The transfer can have no digital consent or a No Objection Certificate, as a result, the transfer cannot be processed.
What is the deadline for applying?
The open transfer window will end on June 30, 2026. The applications received after this date could not be used under this exception.
Do you charge to transfer my visa?
Of course, the regular price is KWD 150. Provided it is not three years since you have been employed by your present employer, there can be an extra KWD 300 early transfer fee.
What is the length of the transfer process?
The process takes averagely 2 to 4 weeks, based on approvals and documentation.
Business4 weeks ago
