Kuwait Introduces Multiple-Trip Exit Permits for Foreign Workers – Check Your Eligibility Now!

Highlights: Kuwait Simplifies Travel for Foreign Workers Via Multi-exit Permit

• Kuwait has introduced a multiple-trip exit permit enabling foreign workers to enter and leave the country multiple times on a single travel permit.
• An exit permit is mandatory since July 1, 2026, following the government's official announcement in June 2025, effective for all foreign workers in the private sector.
• The application for an exit permit is completely digitised and processed through the Ashal portal and Sahel app, reducing manual processing and paperwork.
• Progress and approval of the permit can be instantly tracked and printed, providing a real-time update to employers and foreign employees.
• Additionally, automated approval by authorised signatories reduces processing time, minimising administrative pressure on employers.
   

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Kuwait’s New Exit Permit Grants Multiple-trip Access to Foreign Workers

With Kuwait's new multiple-trip exit permit system, foreign workers can enter and exit the country multiple times on a single approved permit. The recent digital permit system is a vital benchmark in digital labour reforms, simplifying the travel process and eliminating manual paperwork. Under Kuwait's revised multi-permit system, foreign workers can fly in and out of the country for a specified period using a single permit, eliminating the need for exit permission each time.

The reform, initially announced in June 2025, aims to simplify the immigration process for foreign professionals who frequently travel. According to the government's June 2025 announcement, this exit permit will become mandatory for private-sector foreign workers from July 1, 2026. Online applications for the permit can be submitted through the Ashal portal and Sahel app, with real-time tracking and printing after approval. Automatic approvals are generated by authorised signatories, minimising administrative procedures and delays. Indians will significantly benefit from the approval of the expatriate digital exit permit, bringing greater travel flexibility, faster clearance, and stricter compliance with the country's labour rules.

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A Guide To Kuwait’s Newly Launched Digital Multi-Exit Permit

Under Kuwait's revised immigration system, the newly launched multi-exit permit is mandatory for all foreign workers in the country's private sector. The latest multi-exit permit allows professionals to enter and exit the country multiple times on a single approved permit, without having to apply for an official exit each time. Professionals can travel frequently from Kuwait for various purposes, such as family visits, business meetings, or emergencies, within a specific period.

Applications for the newly introduced multi-exit permit can be made through the following online platforms:

• Ashal portal – for companies and workforce service providers
• Sahel app – for smaller businesses and individual workers

When submitting the online application, you can select the permit type, set the end date, and track the approval status in real time. Once approved, the permit does not require repeated exit permissions, saving time for both employees and employers while traveling on urgent business.

The Public Authority for Manpower has enabled automated features to grant exit permissions without manually reviewing every request. This immigration move aims to advance the government's goal of expediting permit processing while remaining compliant with international workers' rights.
 

Also, read…

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How do Kuwait’s New Exit Rules Impact Indian Professionals

Indian professionals are engaged in several sectors experiencing skill shortages in Kuwait, including construction, healthcare, engineering, retail, oil & gas, and domestic services. The new announcement on digitised multi-exit permits brings much-needed relief and convenience for Indian workers in Kuwait.

The significant benefits for Indian professionals in Kuwait include:

• Reduced dependency on employer approval every time while traveling.
• Faster travel clearance for emergency cases.
• Maintenance of a transparent and secure digital record of exit permissions.
• Minimised the risk of delay while flying in and out of Kuwait.

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FAQs

What is Kuwait’s new multiple-trip exit permit system?

Kuwait’s multiple-trip exit permit system allows foreign workers to leave and re-enter the country multiple times using a single approved permit valid for a fixed period. Previously, expatriates had to apply for an exit permit for every trip. This reform is part of Kuwait’s wider digital labour transformation and is intended to reduce paperwork, speed up approvals, and improve transparency. The system is particularly beneficial for Indian workers who travel frequently for family visits, emergencies, or professional commitments.

Who is required to obtain an exit permit in Kuwait?

All foreign workers employed in Kuwait’s private sector are required to obtain an exit permit before leaving the country. This rule was announced in June 2025 and will take effect from July 1, 2026. Indian nationals working in sectors such as construction, healthcare, engineering, retail, oil & gas, and domestic services will fall under this requirement. Government-sector employees are currently excluded, but private-sector compliance will be mandatory once the rule is enforced.

How does the new system benefit Indian workers in Kuwait?

The new multiple-trip exit permit system offers Indian workers greater convenience and flexibility by reducing repeated dependence on employer approvals. It ensures faster travel clearance, especially during emergencies, and allows better planning for vacations or family visits to India. The digital process improves transparency, enables real-time tracking, and lowers the risk of last-minute travel disruptions, making overseas employment more manageable for Indian expatriates.

How can Indian workers apply for an exit permit in Kuwait?

Indian workers can apply for exit permits entirely online through Kuwait’s digital platforms. Employers and manpower agencies use the Ashal portal, while businesses and individual workers can apply via the Sahel app. Applicants can select either a single-trip or multiple-trip permit, define the validity period, and track approval status instantly. Once approved, permits can be downloaded and printed anytime, eliminating paperwork and in-person visits.

What role do employers play under the new exit permit rules?

Employers remain responsible for approving exit permits, but the process has been simplified. Authorised company signatories can now grant automatic digital approvals without reviewing each request manually. This reduces administrative pressure and speeds up processing for employees. For Indian workers, this means fewer delays, provided their employment records and travel requests are compliant with company and government regulations.

Are exit permits required for emergency travel?

Yes, exit permits will be mandatory for all travel once the rule comes into force, including emergencies. However, the multiple-trip exit permit option helps address urgent travel needs by allowing workers to travel multiple times without reapplying during the permit’s validity. Indian workers who anticipate frequent or emergency travel are advised to apply for a multiple-trip permit in advance to avoid delays.

Can Indian workers track their exit permit status online?

Yes, the upgraded system allows Indian workers and employers to track exit permit applications in real time. The status can be checked instantly through the Ashal portal or Sahel app. Once approved, permits can be accessed, downloaded, and printed at any time. This transparency reduces uncertainty and helps workers plan travel confidently.

What happens if an Indian worker travels without an exit permit?

Travelling without a valid exit permit after the rule is enforced may result in travel denial, legal issues, or employment-related penalties. Indian workers are strongly advised to comply with the exit permit requirements to avoid complications at immigration checkpoints. Staying compliant also helps protect employment status and future overseas job prospects in Kuwait.

Does the new exit permit system affect job security?

The exit permit system does not directly affect job security but compliance is essential. The reform aims to balance employer oversight with employee rights through a transparent digital process. Indian workers who follow exit permit rules and company policies are less likely to face disputes, ensuring smoother employer relationships and stable employment while benefiting from easier travel access.

How can Y-Axis help Indian workers working in Kuwait?

Y-Axis supports Indian professionals with overseas employment, work visas, labour rule compliance, and career guidance across Gulf countries, including Kuwait. From understanding exit permit regulations to finding overseas job opportunities and long-term migration pathways, Y-Axis provides expert, end-to-end assistance to help Indian workers stay compliant and build successful international careers.