Introduction

Kuwait remains a key destination for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in domestic and skilled roles. Understanding the work visa process is vital for legal employment and worker protection. This guide outlines the main visa types and application steps for OFWs based on current information.

Types of Work Visas in Kuwait

Kuwait uses specific articles for work visas. The two most relevant for OFWs are:

• Visa 20 (Domestic Worker Visa): For household staff (e.g., helpers, drivers, nannies) sponsored by individual Kuwaiti citizens/residents. The Ministry of Interior (MOI) is the primary authority, and workers are protected under Domestic Worker Law No. 68 of 2015. This law mandates rights like a maximum 12-hour workday with rest, a paid weekly day off, 30 days paid annual leave, and prohibits passport confiscation without the worker's consent.
• Visa 18 (Private Sector Visa): For workers employed by private companies (e.g., in construction, healthcare, retail), sponsored by the employing company. The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) handles the initial work permit application (often via online platforms like Ashal/Sahel, requiring qualification checks). The MOI issues the residency permit (Iqama), and the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) issues the Civil ID. These workers are covered by Private Sector Labour Law No. 6 of 2010.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Obtaining legal residency involves steps in both Kuwait and the Philippines:

1. Job Offer & Initial Employer Actions: First, secure a valid job offer. The Kuwaiti employer/sponsor is responsible for starting the visa process – through PAM for Visa 18 or MOI for Visa 20.

2. Obtaining Clearances & NOC: The employer/sponsor secures necessary security clearances from MOI and the final work permit approval or No Objection Certificate (NOC) from PAM (Visa 18) or MOI (Visa 20).

3. Visa Application Submission (Philippines): The employer sends the approved documents to the worker. The worker then applies for the visa at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Manila, submitting required documents, typically including:

• Valid Passport (at least six months validity recommended)

• Completed visa application form

• Passport-sized photographs

• Medical Examination Certificate (from an Embassy-accredited clinic)

• Police Clearance Certificate (NBI Clearance, authenticated by DFA and Kuwait Embassy)

• Copy of approved Work Permit/NOC 

4. Medical Examination & Biometrics (Upon Arrival in Kuwait): After entering Kuwait, the worker must undergo another medical examination at a Ministry of Health (MOH) approved clinic. Mandatory biometric registration (fingerprints, iris scan, facial photo) via MOI is also required for those 18+. Appointments must be booked online (Meta portal or Sahel app). Failure to register biometrics will suspend all MOI transactions (e.g., visa renewals).

5. Issuance of Residence Permit (Iqama) & Civil ID (Bataka): Following successful medical and biometric clearance, the MOI's General Department of Residency issues the Residence Permit (Iqama), usually stamped in the passport within 30-60 days of arrival. Afterwards, the worker must apply for the Kuwaiti Civil ID card (Bataka) from PACI, typically within 10-30 days of receiving the Iqama.

Important Considerations for OFWs (Philippine Requirements)

OFWs must also comply with Philippine government procedures:

• Verification of Employment Contracts (MWO/POLO): The employment contract must be verified by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), formerly POLO, at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. This ensures the contract meets minimum standards and is required for the OEC.

• Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS): A mandatory one-day seminar conducted by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for all first-time OFWs. It covers rights, laws, culture, finances, and safety. A PDOS certificate is needed for OEC processing.

• Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC): A mandatory exit clearance document issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). It proves legal processing and requires the verified contract, PDOS certificate, valid passport/visa, medical certificate, and insurance proof. It's typically valid for 60 days for a single exit.

Conclusion

Successfully working legally in Kuwait means carefully following both Kuwaiti regulations (Visa 18/20 steps, biometrics) and Philippine requirements (MWO contract verification, PDOS, OEC). Diligent adherence to these procedures helps ensure a smoother and more secure employment experience.

Additional Information (Official Resources)

For the most current information, consult official sources:

• Philippine Authorities:

• Philippine Embassy in Kuwait (MWO/POLO): kuwaitpe.dfa.gov.ph/

• Department of Migrant Workers (DMW): dmw.gov.ph/

• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): owwa.gov.ph/

• Kuwaiti Authorities:

• Ministry of Interior (MOI): moi.gov.kw/

• Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI): paci.gov.kw/ 

• Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA): mofa.gov.kw/en/