Those Departing Kuwait by August 31 Can Still Benefit from the Exceptional Extension.
Dubai: Kuwait will stop automatic extensions for entry visas and leave permits from September 1, 2026, reverting to the standard validity periods prescribed under the country’s residency regulations, the Ministry of Interior has announced.
Under the new policy, automatic extensions for all categories of visit visas held by people currently in Kuwait will come to an end. The standard validity periods, procedures and regulations governing these visas will then apply.
The change will also apply to expatriate residents currently outside Kuwait, with the standard validity periods for leave permits set to resume from September 1.
However, residents who leave Kuwait on or before August 31, 2026, will still be eligible for the additional exceptional extension, subject to the applicable regulations.
Residents abroad urged to check Sahel
The ministry advised residents outside Kuwait to check the residency permit status certificate available through the Sahel app, which will serve as the official reference for determining the expiry date of their leave permit.
Expatriates currently outside Kuwait are advised to check the date stated on the certificate and ensure they return to the country within the permitted period.
The ministry urged residents and visitors affected by the changes to follow all applicable deadlines, regulations and procedures to avoid residency or immigration violations.
The September 1 change effectively ends the exceptional extension system for new cases, meaning visa holders and residents will once again be required to comply with the standard validity periods prescribed by law.
