I have been working for a private firm for over seven years but would now like to join another company for better prospects. I have submitted my resignation but my company has refused to acknowledge receipt. What can I do?

Name withheld

Answer: Under the new Kuwaiti Labour Law, you are required to give a 3-month notice although most companies are still implementing the old law while waiting for the by-laws, in which case – depending on the firm – you can submit a 15-day notice, after which you are free to stop going to work. If the company does not accept and fails to take the necessary procedures, you should immediately report the case to the Labour Department of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour.

The Arab Times invites questions on all aspects of Kuwaiti law. If you face a problem, or need specific advice on any legal matter, from commercial and investment law to divorce and labour, send questions to the Managing Editor, Arab Times, P.O. Box 2270, 13023  Safat, Kuwait, or Fax to 4818267