Many long-term expatriate families in Kuwait face a challenging situation when their children pursue higher education abroad. Under current residency regulations, dependents holding family visas must return to Kuwait within six months, or their residence is automatically cancelled unless an extension is approved in advance. This rule, while administratively necessary, has caused emotional distress for parents whose children study overseas — especially when a small oversight or delay results in permanent cancellation of residency and separation from family.

Dear Arab Times, I am an expatriate who has lived and worked in Kuwait for over 25 years with my family. My daughter was born and studied in Kuwait up to the 12th grade, and she is now pursuing her college education in India. In the past, I regularly submitted her bonafide certificate to extend her stay abroad beyond six months, and her residence remained valid. Last year, due to family circumstances, I forgot to submit the extension, and although her residence was renewed in August 2024, the Jawazat later informed me it was automatically cancelled because she did not enter Kuwait within six months. I would like to know if there is any way to reinstate or reapply for her dependent residence, as she is still studying in India, and we wish to reunite her with the family in Kuwait. Please give a thought sir, I am very positive and hopeful that you will make my case with the Governmen,t and some fruitful result will come out.

Answer: That’s a very good and important question, and many long-term expatriates in Kuwait face this same situation when their children study abroad.

Let’s go step by step so you clearly understand your legal position and the possible solutions under the Kuwait residency law.

Under Kuwait Residency Law, Article 12 of Ministerial Decision No. 640/1987 states: “The residence permit of an expatriate shall be automatically cancelled if the holder remains outside Kuwait for more than six months, unless prior permission is obtained from the Ministry of Interior before expiry of this period.”

Option 1: Reapply for a New Dependent Visa (Most Practical)

Option 2: Humanitarian / Special Permission (Worth Trying)

If you want to try to reinstate her previous residence or seek a special exemption, visit:

Ministry of Interior – General Department of Residency Affairs (Subhan HQ) Family Residency Section / Director’s Office

Take:

Ask for:

“Istithnaa’ insaanee” (humanitarian exemption) to reactivate or issue a new visa without re-submission.

They sometimes refer the case to the Undersecretary’s Office, and if approved, they’ll allow the re-entry on the same residency number.