Key Points
- Kuwait mandates employer-approved exit permits for all private-sector foreign nationals.
- The rule takes effect July 1, 2025, and applies to temporary and permanent departures.
- Requests must be submitted via the Ashal portal or Sahel mobile app.
Overview
Effective July 1, 2025, Kuwait requires all foreign nationals employed in the private sector to secure an employer-approved exit permit before leaving the country. This rule applies to both short-term trips and permanent departures.
To comply, foreign employees must submit a departure request through the Ministry of Interior’s Ashal online portal or Sahel mobile application. The request must include intended departure and return dates. Authorities will not permit travel without prior approval, reinforcing the government’s control over the exit process for foreign workers.
The regulation aligns with Kuwait’s broader efforts to oversee workforce mobility and ensure employers remain informed of their employees’ travel plans. Companies that rely on foreign workers must adjust internal policies to account for the additional approval step before any international travel.
Looking Ahead
Employers should establish clear internal procedures for managing exit permit requests to avoid last-minute disruptions. Communicating the new requirement to employees and integrating it into HR and mobility processes will help ensure compliance. Monitoring for any future adjustments to the exit permit system or potential exemptions will remain crucial for maintaining a smooth workforce management process.
