Kuwait Exit Permit Rule: As of July 1, 2025, the Public Authority of Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has begun enforcing a new ministerial directive requiring all private sector expatriate workers to secure an employer-approved exit permit before traveling outside the country.
This Kuwait exit permit rule applies only to expats working in the private sector and is intended to streamline labor mobility and documentation. The entire process is handled digitally through approved platforms, and to date, over 35,000 exit permits have already been issued.
Key Points of the Exit Permit Policy
- Applies to private sector expatriate workers only
- Exit permits must be requested and approved digitally
- Requires employer approval before departure
- No annual limit on the number of permits
Worker Protections in Place
The authorities have emphasized that the system includes protections for expat workers. If an employer denies or delays a permit without valid justification, the worker can file a complaint through designated government channels.
This ensures that the exit permit policy does not become a tool for exploitation or abuse.
How to Apply for an Exit Permit
The process is fully online and can be accessed through official digital labor platforms. For full details, visit the Public Authority of Manpower website.
Why It Matters
The Kuwait exit permit rule reflects the country’s evolving approach to labor regulation, aiming for digital transparency while balancing employer oversight and worker rights.
With over 35,000 permits issued in just a short time, the system is seeing rapid adoption—but it’s crucial for workers to stay informed and know their rights.
