Kuwait Sets Investor Residency Framework Under Council of Ministers Resolution No. 651 of 2026

Kuwait's Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. 651 of 2026 on 10 June 2026, establishing a residency framework for investors. It was published in the Official Gazette on 14 June 2026 and is administered by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) and the Ministry of Interior's General Administration for Residency Affairs. Eligible categories are owners of licensed investment entities, partners in the entity, senior management and board members holding KDIPA-approved titles, and their family members (spouses, parents and children). The main requirements are: - A minimum investment value of KWD 5,000,000 and minimum paid-up capital of KWD 1,000,000, deposited inside Kuwait. The competent minister may adjust these thresholds on KDIPA's recommendation. - A valid KDIPA investment licence. - An actual headquarters and real operational activity in Kuwait. - Compliance with Kuwaitisation requirements. - A clean criminal record certificate and a passport valid for at least six months. KDIPA must decide on a complete application within five working days of receipt; incomplete files are rejected if not completed within 30 days. Renewal applications must be filed at least 60 days before expiry. Residency ends if the investment licence is cancelled, a criminal conviction occurs, the conditions are no longer met, false documents are submitted, or operations cease for more than one year without approval. Investors should confirm the current fee schedule and permit validity with KDIPA, as these were not set out in the source reviewed.