Kuwait e-Visa 2025: Eligibility, Application Process, and Visa Types Explained

In a major boost to its digital infrastructure, Kuwait has launched a new electronic visa (e-Visa) platform aimed at streamlining travel procedures for international visitors. The online system covers four main visa types: tourist, family, business, and official, making it easier and faster for travellers to enter the Gulf nation.

This move not only improves accessibility but also supports Kuwait’s vision of becoming a regional hub for tourism, foreign investment, and diplomatic engagement.

Who Can Apply? List of Eligible Countries

Kuwait’s e-Visa is available to citizens of 53 countries, including most of Europe, North America, Australia, and select Asian nations. Here’s a snapshot of eligible countries:

Region	Countries Included
Europe	All EU countries, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, UK
Asia	Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Georgia, Hong Kong, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Turkey
Oceania	Australia, New Zealand
Americas	Canada, United States
Others	Vatican City, Ukraine, Serbia

Note: Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa. However, nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen are not eligible for the e-Visa and must apply in person at a Kuwaiti embassy.

Must Read: Kuwait Introduces Mandatory Exit Permit for Foreign Workers from July 2025

What Types of Kuwait eVisas Are Available?

Kuwait’s new e-Visa platform offers four categories to suit different travel needs:

1. Tourist Visa

Perfect for leisure travellers, Kuwait’s Tourist Visa lets you explore Kuwait’s attractions, culture, and coastal beauty for up to three months.

• Purpose: For sightseeing and recreational visits
• Validity: Up to 3 months
• Single entry
• Ideal for exploring Kuwait’s museums, beaches, and cultural attractions

2. Family Visit Visa

The Family Visit Visa allows Kuwaiti residents to invite close relatives for short family reunions or personal visits lasting up to 30 days.

• Purpose: For visiting family members residing in Kuwait
• Validity: 30 days
• Sponsor required: A resident family member in Kuwait must initiate the invitation
• Great for family reunions or short-term stays with relatives

3. Business Visa

Designed for professionals attending meetings or events, Business Visa supports short business visits to connect with Kuwaiti partners or clients.

• Purpose: For attending business meetings, exhibitions, or negotiations
• Validity: 30 days
• Sponsor required: A Kuwaiti company or institution must support the application
• Useful for entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate delegates

4. Official Visa

Reserved for diplomats and government officials, this visa is issued through official coordination for mission-specific travel to Kuwait.

• Purpose: For government delegations and diplomatic missions
• Requirements: Issued only through official government coordination
• Not available for public applications

How to Apply for a Kuwait eVisa

Applying for a Kuwait eVisa is a straightforward online process:

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Visit the official eVisa portal: https://evisa.moi.gov.kw/
2. Create an account or log in with your details
3. Choose the visa type (Tourist, Family, Business, or Official)
4. Fill out the online application form
5. Upload required documents (see below)
6. Pay the visa fee online
7. Submit your application
8. Wait for the approval notification via email

Documents Required for Kuwait e-Visa

Make sure you have the following documents ready before applying:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry)
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Travel itinerary (flight tickets and hotel bookings)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter for family/business visas)
• Sponsor letter (required for family and business visas)
• Official government letter (for official visa applications only)

All documents should be scanned and uploaded in the specified format on the portal.

Processing Time and Visa Fees

• Processing Time: 1–3 business days for most e-Visas, but delays may occur during peak travel seasons.
• Visa Validity: Tourist e-Visas are valid for 90 days from issue, with a stay of up to 30 days per visit.
• Fees: Typically 3 KWD (approx. $10), but may vary by nationality and visa type.

Why This Matters for Travellers

Kuwait’s shift to a digital visa system comes as many countries worldwide adopt contactless travel solutions. This upgrade will:

• Cut down embassy visits
• Reduce paperwork
• Speed up visa approvals
• Encourage more tourism and business travel

It also reflects Kuwait’s ambition to attract international visitors and enhance regional cooperation through smoother entry channels.

Final Tips Before You Apply

• Apply at least a week in advance of your travel date to avoid last-minute delays
• Double-check your documents for accuracy and clarity
• Print a copy of your approved eVisa to carry during travel
• Verify entry conditions with your airline before departure

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to the Gulf soon, this new eVisa system by Kuwait makes the process much easier and faster. Whether you’re visiting family, attending a business meeting, or just exploring Kuwait’s modern marvels and rich heritage, now you can do it with fewer travel hassles.