14 Professions Exempted from University Degree Requirement for Dependent Visas. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, Fahd Al-Yousef, have issued a decision introducing modifications to certain provisions of Ministerial Resolution 957 from 2019, incorporated within the executive regulations of the Expats’ Residence Law. These changes delineate the criteria for obtaining regular residency to facilitate the reunification of families.
Key Amendments in Article 29
To be eligible for a dependent/family visa (for newcomers), the monthly salary must not fall below KD 800, the sponsor must hold a university degree, and the profession should align with the respective qualification. The professions exempted from university degree requirements, as specified in Article 30 of this decision, are outlined below.
Exemptions for Specific Categories
Individuals born in Kuwait and those born outside the country, with an age not exceeding 5 years, and whose parents are in Kuwait (possessing valid residence), are exempted from the salary requirement. This exemption is granted by the Director General of the General Administration of Residence Affairs, in accordance with the guidelines and conditions set forth by the General Administration of Residence Affairs.
Implementation and Effective Date
The second article of the decision designates the acting Undersecretary as responsible for the implementation of these changes, which will come into effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
Professions Listed in Article 30 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019
- Advisors, judges, prosecutors, experts, and legal researchers within the government sector.
- Medical professionals, including doctors and pharmacists.
- Professors of universities, colleges, and higher institutes.
- School administrators, vice principals, education mentors, teachers, social workers, and laboratory attendants within the government sector.
- Advisors specializing in financial and economic matters in universities.
- Engineers.
- Individuals serving as imams, preachers, and muezzins in mosques.
- Librarians in both government agencies and private universities.
- Personnel working in the Ministry of Health within the nursing staff, encompassing nurses, paramedics, and those holding medical technical positions in diverse specialties, as well as individuals in social service roles.
- Social workers and psychologists within the government sector.
- Professionals in journalism, media, and correspondents.
- Coaches and athletes associated with federations and sports clubs.
- Pilots and flight attendants.
- Individuals responsible for preparing the deceased and overseeing their burial.
