Long-term residency of up to 15 years for investors and key executives in KDIPA-licensed companies
The Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) has announced the issuance of Council of Ministers Resolution No. (É) of 2026, introducing a new regulatory framework for residency permits for foreign investors licensed under Law No. (116) of 2013 on the Promotion of Direct Investment in the State of Kuwait. Issued pursuant to Article (13) of Law No. (114) of 2024 concerning the Residency of Foreigners, the resolution allows eligible KDIPA-licensed investors to secure residency for up to 15 years—reinforcing Kuwait’s commitment to creating a stable, competitive, and investor-friendly business environment.
Developed in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, the resolution establishes a transparent and comprehensive framework for the granting and renewal of residency permits across defined categories within KDIPA-licensed entities. It applies to owners of licensed investment entities, partners, KDIPA-approved senior executives, and eligible immediate family members, subject to the prescribed conditions. By providing greater long-term residency certainty for qualified investors and leadership teams, the framework supports business continuity, talent mobility, and confidence in Kuwait as a strategic destination for international investment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible entities licensed by KDIPA must maintain an investment value of no less than KWD 5 million.
- Capital must be no less than KWD 1 million for approved investment activities.
- Entities must maintain active operations in Kuwait.
- Entities must fulfill the minimum prescribed employment requirement for Kuwaiti nationals.
This initiative underscores Kuwait’s continued efforts to strengthen the legal and regulatory foundations that support direct investment, while enhancing its attractiveness to global investors seeking long-term growth opportunities in the region.
