Kuwait Reopens Work Visas to Boost Skilled Labor for Government Projects

Kuwait reopens work visas for foreign professionals to address labor shortages and accelerate government-led projects. This policy, effective October 21, 2024, will apply to short-term government contracts under one year. The initiative, overseen by the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM), comes in response to directives from Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior at State of Kuwait.

The visa reactivation is intended to attract skilled workers in sectors such as engineering, construction, and technology. These workers are essential for advancing Kuwait’s ambitious development projects, which include significant infrastructure work such as new roads, rail networks, and public facilities. The government views these projects as vital for both immediate economic benefits and long-term growth, and skilled foreign workers are expected to help ensure that the projects are completed efficiently and on time.

Officials expect this policy to ease the strain on Kuwait’s local labor force and address a critical shortage in skilled workers, thus supporting the timely and high-quality delivery of key national projects. To implement this effectively, PAM has streamlined the application process, allowing foreign professionals to begin their assignments with minimal delay.

While the move has been welcomed as a means to enhance project capabilities and economic development, some local stakeholders express concerns about the potential impact on the local labor market. Critics fear that an influx of foreign workers may drive down wages or limit job availability for Kuwaitis. However, government representatives assure that they are committed to safeguards that protect the interests of local workers, noting that foreign workers will primarily be engaged on projects where local expertise is insufficient.

This development aligns with Kuwait’s broader strategy to strengthen its infrastructure, diversify its economy, and position itself competitively in the region. By welcoming foreign expertise on government projects, the country aims to balance immediate labor needs with its long-term economic objectives.