ISLAMABAD: After a 19-year hiatus, Kuwait has officially resumed issuing visas to Pakistani citizens, marking a significant step in restoring bilateral ties and expanding opportunities for Pakistanis in the Gulf state. The long-standing ban on various visa categories was lifted under new directives, allowing Pakistanis to apply for work, family, visit, tourist, and commercial visas once again.
New Opportunities for Pakistanis in Kuwait
This move is expected to open doors for thousands of Pakistanis seeking employment, business prospects, and tourism opportunities in Kuwait.
Notably, Kuwait plans to recruit approximately 1,200 nurses from Pakistan to strengthen its healthcare sector, with the first group of medical professionals expected to depart soon.
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the removal of visa restrictions will facilitate smoother and faster visa processing through online platforms.
Officials expressed optimism that this revival of visa issuance will not only boost employment but also enhance trade and tourism, contributing positively to Pakistan’s economy through increased foreign exchange remittances.
Background and Future Outlook
Kuwait had suspended visa issuance to passport holders from Pakistan, Iran, Syria, and Afghanistan in 2011, citing security concerns.
Since then, periodic negotiations between Kuwait and Pakistan have addressed these issues, culminating in the recent decision to lift the ban. This resumption is expected to further strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
In a related note, visa applicants aiming for Schengen countries should be aware of high rejection rates, with over 14.8% of applications denied in 2024.
Prospective travelers are advised to consider rejection statistics when applying for visas to improve their chances of approval.
