KUWAIT CITY, Kuwait — Kuwait has introduced a 15-year golden residency permit aimed at attracting foreign investors and strengthening its standing as a regional business center.
The new program, launched in June 2026, offers long-term residency to eligible investors and certain business-related applicants under Cabinet Resolution No. 651 of 2026, published in Kuwait Alyoum, the official gazette.
Kuwait recently issued its first permit under the scheme to Yusuff Ali M.A., chairman of Lulu Group International, underscoring the government’s intent to position the program as a tool for drawing high-value capital into the country.
The residency scheme is part of a broader Gulf trend in which states are expanding long-term visa options to compete for entrepreneurs, investors and senior executives.
Under the new rules, residency can be granted to owners of licensed investment entities, business partners and senior executives. Immediate family members, including spouses, parents and children, may also be included.
Applicants must meet several basic conditions. These include providing a clean criminal record certificate, holding a passport valid for at least six months and submitting accurate documentation.
Officials have warned that false information or forged papers will lead to rejection. In some cases, residency may also be canceled and legal action taken.
The investment thresholds are significant. Eligible companies must show a minimum investment volume of 5 million dinars, or about $16.3 million, and capital of at least 1 million dinars.
Applicants must also prove that the capital has been deposited in Kuwait and show a real business presence in the country. Companies sponsoring investor residency must comply with local employment rules, including Kuwaiti hiring quotas set by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority in coordination with other authorities.
Applications are handled by the General Directorate of Residency Affairs at the Ministry of Interior after a recommendation from KDIPA. The authority must issue a decision within five working days of receiving a complete file.
If officials ask for more documents, applicants have 30 days to respond. Missing that deadline will result in automatic rejection.
The permit can be renewed, but only if all conditions continue to be met. Applicants must apply at least 60 days before the visa expires and show that their business remains compliant with financial, operational and legal requirements.
