Kuwait
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Kuwait’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Kuwait set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK:
2 Albert Gate
London, SW1X 7JU
Telephone: 020 7590 3400
Passport validity requirements
To enter Kuwait, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Previous travel to Israel
If your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused a visa or entry to Kuwait.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to visit Kuwait.
Applying for a visa
You can get a visa on arrival in Kuwait. The issuance of e-visas has been temporarily suspended. More information is available from the Kuwait Ministry of Interior .
Checks at border control
You must be able to show:
- a ticket for return or onward travel
- proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking
- work visas (both public and private sector) require further documents from employer. See further details on visas and requirements
Working or living in Kuwait
For work or residency visas, apply to the Kuwaiti Embassy in London.
If you’re applying for a residency visa, your passport must be valid for at least 2 years. Your employers should not keep your passport.
For further information, read about living in Kuwait.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kuwait guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kuwait. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Failure to declare could result in:
- imprisonment
- refusal of entry and possible deportation
It is illegal to import:
- narcotics
- alcohol
- gambling machines
- pork and pork products
- pornographic material
Taking money into Kuwait
Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 3000 Kuwaiti dinars (£7,500) or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.