
Plan your trip
Visas & entry
Who needs a visa for Kuwait, the official e-visa platform, rules for GCC residents and what not to bring through customs.
Last reviewed: October 2026
KuwaitVisit does not issue visas, sell visa services or collect visa fees. Apply only through the official government platforms below and be wary of unofficial websites that look official or charge extra fees.
Who needs a visa
Citizens of the other Gulf Cooperation Council states — Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman — do not need a visa and can travel with their national ID card or passport. Almost all other visitors need a visit visa, obtained online in advance or, for eligible nationalities, on arrival.
The official e-visa platform
In July 2025 Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior launched the Kuwait Visa platform, which accepts online applications for four kinds of visit visa: tourist, family, business and official. The official “Visit Kuwait” app and website also guide visitors to the e-visa service.
Citizens of around fifty countries — including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and most European Union states — have been eligible for tourist e-visas or visas on arrival. Lists, validity and fees change, so check your own nationality on the official portal before you book.
Residents of GCC countries
Since August 2025, foreign residents of other GCC countries whose residency is valid for at least six months have been able to obtain a tourist visa on arrival or online. Conditions — including nationality and profession — have changed several times, so confirm the current rules on the official portal.
Before you fly
- Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
- Keep a copy of your approved e-visa, return or onward ticket and accommodation details.
- Travel insurance that covers medical treatment is strongly recommended.
- Check your airline’s own entry and transit requirements.
Customs: what not to bring
- Alcohol and pork products are prohibited, as are narcotics — penalties for drug offences are severe.
- Some prescription medicines are controlled: carry them in original packaging with a copy of your prescription.
- Large amounts of cash (KWD 3,000 or more, or the equivalent) must be declared.
- Drones need prior authorisation from the relevant authorities.
Official links
- Kuwait Visa — Ministry of Interior e-visa platformkuwaitvisa.moi.gov.kw
- Visit Kuwait — official tourism and events platformvisitkuwait.gov.kw
- Ministry of Interiormoi.gov.kw