The Ministry of Interior is reportedly considering the introduction of Article 22 visas for family members or dependents, set to commence in early 2024. This initiative, as disclosed by Al-Anba daily, would be applicable to select expatriate groups, including professionals such as doctors, university professors, counselors, and others. While the specific eligibility criteria are yet to be enumerated, a committee will soon be formed by the ministry to determine them.
According to an unnamed source, this move aligns with the demographic strategy spearheaded by the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled. The strategy aims to carefully select and regulate the expatriate categories allowed to bring their families into the country, ensuring a balanced approach to population management.
In a related development, it has been revealed that visitors who overstay their visas will now face a fine of KD100 per day, in accordance with the unified Gulf visa mechanism of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This mechanism also includes provisions related to health insurance and mandatory hotel reservations, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to visitor management across the GCC.
The new regulations also include an increase in the salary requirement for obtaining a family visa from KD500 to KD800 for expatriates in both the public and private sectors. This change is currently being studied by the ministry’s legal department, ensuring that the salary requirement is in line with the country’s economic conditions.
Furthermore, the ministry is reported to be examining a new mechanism to issue all types of entry visas. This mechanism will take into consideration the demographic balance, ensuring that the country’s population is managed effectively and in accordance with the goals set by the Ministry of Interior.
These updates highlight the ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Interior to implement measures that regulate the entry and stay of expatriates in the country. By introducing Article 22 visas for family members, the ministry aims to strike a balance between attracting skilled professionals and managing the country’s population effectively.
It is important for expatriates and visitors to be aware of these changes to avoid any potential legal issues. Overstaying visas can now result in significant fines, and it is crucial to comply with the unified Gulf visa mechanism to ensure a smooth and hassle-free stay in the country.
As the ministry continues to work towards implementing these new regulations, it is advisable for individuals affected by these changes to stay updated with the latest announcements and guidelines. This will help them navigate the visa process and ensure compliance with the evolving requirements.
Overall, these updates reflect the commitment of the Ministry of Interior to effectively manage the entry and stay of expatriates in the country. By introducing new visa categories, increasing salary requirements, and implementing a comprehensive visitor management approach, the ministry aims to create a balanced and sustainable demographic landscape.
Source: TimesKuwait
