Foreign investors looking to establish long-term operations in the country Kuwait Soon there will be even stronger reasons to stay.In a major policy shift aimed at attracting global capital, Kuwait has launched a new residency program that will allow eligible foreign investors, business owners and senior managers to live in the country for up to 15 years. The move, one of the longest current residency permits in the Gulf, reflects Kuwait’s growing efforts to compete with regional neighbors for investment and talent.The new framework, approved in accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. 651 of 2026 and published in the Official Gazette “Kuwait Al-Youm”, aims to provide greater certainty to investors while encouraging new foreign direct investments into the country’s economy. Authorities said the move was part of a broader strategy to strengthen Kuwait’s business environment, create jobs and reduce dependence on oil revenue.Interior Ministry officials said the plan supports Kuwait’s vision to become a more attractive destination for international investors and businesses. The program is developed in coordination with the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), which will play a key role in evaluating qualified applicants.
Kuwait’s new 15-year residence permit
The long-term residency program is targeted at investors who have made significant contributions to Kuwait’s economy, rather than the wider expatriate population.Under the new regulations, owners of investment entities licensed by KDIPA, approved business partners and senior managers working in qualifying companies can obtain a residence permit for up to 15 years. Immediate family members, including spouse and children, can also benefit from the residency program.To qualify, companies must maintain investments worth at least KD 5 million (approximately $16.3 million) and have a capital base deposited in Kuwait of at least KD 1 million. Businesses must also demonstrate genuine operations within the country and comply with Kuwaitization requirements to promote employment of Kuwaiti nationals.Applications will be reviewed by KDIPA and then forwarded to the General Directorate of Residence Affairs of the Ministry of Interior for final processing.
Why does Kuwait offer residency?
The news comes as Gulf states step up efforts to attract foreign investment amid growing competition from international businesses and highly skilled professionals.For years, investors in the area have sought greater residential stability to support long-term business planning. By offering licenses that are valid for up to 15 years, Kuwait is seeking to eliminate one of investors’ biggest concerns, namely uncertainty over residency renewal and future business continuity.The move also aligns Kuwait more closely with regional initiatives such as the UAE’s golden visa and Saudi Arabia’s senior residency program. While each program has different requirements, all share a common goal: to attract investors who can bring capital, expertise and economic growth.The new residency framework is expected to help boost Kuwait’s attractiveness as an investment destination while supporting broader economic diversification plans, officials said.
What does the new plan mean?
For investors, the benefits are obvious. A longer residency period provides greater security for business owners and their families, making it easier to plan for expansion, hire employees, and invest capital over the long term.For Kuwait, the government hopes the initiative will encourage more foreign direct investment, support private sector growth and strengthen the country’s position as a regional business hub.However, the authorities stressed that a residence permit is tied to continued compliance with investment and regulatory requirements. Investors must maintain qualifying business activities throughout their stay and the license may be revoked if conditions are no longer met.The launch of the 15-year residence permit marks one of Kuwait’s most important investment reforms in recent years. As Gulf economies increasingly compete for global capital, the move signals Kuwait’s readiness to offer investors greater long-term certainty in exchange for continued economic contributions.
