All sectors granted visa waivers in Kuwait now have to pay a Kuwait Work Visa Fee KD150, thanks to the government’s decision to rearrange the visa fee system. With this new policy, the government shows its intent to treat all industries equally and focuses on equality in the labor market.
New Kuwait Work Visa Fee Structure
Thanks to Ministerial Resolution No. 4 of 2025, various organizations that used to be exempt from fees are affected by the changes. Anyone who works for government-run businesses, licensed medical centers or universities and schools in the private sector now needs to apply for a work visa that requires payment of the standard fee.
Those who have obtained accreditation from the Investment Promotion Authority, just like sports organizations, federations and different community associations, will be affected by these new charges. Policies are the same for charitable organizations, labor unions, endowments and public benefit associations, so everyone has the same opportunities in Kuwait.
Strategic Move Toward Labor Market Standardization
On Thursday, the government’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Sheikh Fahd Al Youssef, explained the plan to strengthen the management of work permits. This means that a change has been made from the system where big sectors were able to avoid paying additional permit fees based on their manpower.
Now, all industrial facilities, agricultural operations and commercial properties are charged the same fees as other businesses. Now, institutions that formerly had exemptions also have to pay the KD150 fee for every work permit they receive. Using this strategy, there is no favoritism for certain industries over others in Kuwait’s job market.
Economic Impact of Kuwait Work Visa Fee Policy
This change enables Kuwait to gain substantial earnings from foreign workers who wish to work in the nation. The government introduced a new rule making all individual work permits cost KD150, so they get a steady income from work permits and openly display pricing throughout businesses.