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Kuwait lifted the ban on visas for Pakistani citizens after 19 years, allowing work, visit, family, tourist, and business visa categories, according to a report from a foreign news agency.
Kuwait had restricted visas for Pakistanis since 2011, citing security concerns. After years of negotiations, the two countries have reached an understanding to lift these restrictions.
This new development is expected to create jobs, trade, and tourism opportunities for thousands of Pakistanis looking to work or visit the Gulf state.
The Kuwaiti government has especially announced plans to hire 1,200 Pakistani nurses to support its growing healthcare sector needs.
According to officials, the first group of nurses is expected to depart soon, as arrangements for their accommodation are being finalized.
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis welcomed the decision, saying the lifted ban will now make it easier for Pakistani applicants to get visas through an online application platform.
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The Ministry’s focal person said the change will reduce waiting times and streamline visa approvals for Pakistani citizens seeking employment or family reunification in Kuwait.
Officials believe this move will boost Pakistan’s national economy through increased remittances and job placements abroad, especially in healthcare and technical fields.
Kuwait’s decision is seen as a positive result of continued diplomatic talks aimed at improving bilateral ties and addressing past concerns.
More than 93,000 Pakistanis already live in Kuwait, working in fields such as healthcare, education, construction, and retail.
Their role has been praised for contributing to Kuwait’s economy, with the newly lifted ban allowing even more Pakistanis to play a part.
Meanwhile, global visa challenges persist. Recent European Commission data showed 14.8% of Schengen visa applications were rejected in 2024.
Pakistani travelers are advised to apply cautiously to countries with lower rejection rates when planning visits to Europe or other regions.
With the Kuwait visas ban lifted, Pakistanis now have a renewed chance to work, invest, and travel in one of the most prosperous Gulf countries. This change is expected to strengthen Pakistan-Kuwait relations while also opening the door to more cooperation in health, labour, and tourism sectors.
