KUWAIT CITY, Dec 30: The Ministry of Interior has issued Ministerial Decision No. 2249 of 2025, setting out the executive regulations of the Decree-Law governing the residence of expats in Kuwait, including rules on the maximum period expats may remain outside the country.

Under the new regulations, any expats authorised to reside in Kuwait is not permitted to stay outside the country for more than six consecutive months. The rule applies to all residency categories unless specifically exempted.

The decision outlines several exceptions to this requirement, including children of Kuwaiti citizens, property owners, and foreign investors, who are not subject to the six-month limit.

Special provisions have also been set for domestic workers. According to Article 20 of the regulations, domestic workers may remain outside Kuwait for a maximum period of four months. However, this period may be extended if the sponsor submits an official request for a leave of absence. Such requests can be made either by visiting the relevant Residency Affairs Departments or by applying electronically through the Sahel application.

The ministry said the decision forms part of broader efforts to regulate residency matters, ensure compliance with immigration laws, and maintain accurate residency records, in line with the country’s legal and administrative framework.