After nearly two decades, Kuwait has lifted its visa ban on Pakistani nationals. This historic move resumes the issuance of work, family, visit, tourist, and business visas. It reflects a major diplomatic breakthrough and opens a new chapter in bilateral relations between Pakistan and Kuwait.
The visa ban was originally imposed in 2011 due to regional security concerns. Alongside Pakistan, citizens from Iran, Syria, and Afghanistan were also affected. Despite several attempts by the Pakistani government, full visa restoration had remained off the table for years. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif raised the issue during his 2017 visit to Kuwait but made little progress.
In May 2021, Kuwait made its first step toward easing restrictions. It resumed visas for Pakistani families, businessmen, and skilled professionals in medical and oil fields. Although this offered some relief, full visa access remained unavailable for most citizens.
Now, that limitation has finally been removed. The Government of Pakistan announced that Kuwait will fully reopen all visa categories. Pakistani citizens have already begun receiving visa approvals, according to Ambassador Dr. Zaffar Iqbal. The community in Kuwait has responded positively to this long-awaited development.
This decision is expected to significantly boost people-to-people contact and workforce mobility. Thousands of Pakistanis seek job opportunities in Gulf countries every year, and this change offers a new pathway.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
Kuwait and Pakistan established diplomatic ties in 1963 and have maintained friendly relations since. The countries collaborate in global forums like the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Currently, around 95,000 Pakistanis live and work in Kuwait. The visa resumption is likely to increase this number, particularly in labor, healthcare, and service sectors. A new labour agreement is also in progress, aimed at formalizing worker placements and creating safer employment channels.
This development not only reopens borders but also strengthens economic and diplomatic ties between both nations. For many Pakistani families and professionals, Kuwait is now an open door once again.
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