Kuwait Resumes Visa Issuance for Pakistanis After 19-Year Ban, Opening New Avenues for Jobs and Trade
KUWAIT CITY: In a landmark move, Kuwait has officially lifted a 19-year-old visa ban on Pakistani citizens, reinstating multiple visa categories including work, family, visit, tourist, and commercial visas.
According to international media reports, this long-awaited decision marks a significant turning point in Pakistan-Kuwait diplomatic relations, paving the way for renewed cooperation and economic engagement between the two nations.
The resumption of visa services is expected to create vast opportunities for thousands of Pakistanis, particularly in employment and business. Notably, Kuwait has announced plans to recruit approximately 1,200 nurses from Pakistan to strengthen its healthcare sector, with the first batch expected to depart soon.
A spokesperson from Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis lauded the move, calling it a vital step toward enhancing bilateral ties and boosting economic prospects. He noted that visa processing for Pakistanis will now be streamlined through an online portal, eliminating lengthy wait times and simplifying access.
The spokesperson also emphasized that the restoration of visa privileges will contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy through increased foreign remittances, job creation, and expanded trade and tourism activities.
Kuwait had originally suspended visa issuance for citizens of Pakistan, Iran, Syria, and Afghanistan in 2011, citing security concerns. Since then, both governments have been engaged in continued diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue. The recent decision reflects growing mutual trust and a shared vision for closer cooperation.
This development is being seen as a major diplomatic and economic breakthrough, offering renewed hope for stronger Pakistan-Kuwait relations in the years to come.
