Kuwait to make exit permits mandatory for private sector expat workers

Expatriate workers in Kuwait’s private sector will be required to obtain an exit permit from their sponsor before leaving the country. The new decision will take effect from July 1.

The announcement was made by the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) via its official X account, based on a circular issued by



First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef.

PAM said that the exit permit system is aimed at regulating departures, ensuring legal compliance, and protecting the rights of both expatriate workers and employers. It also seeks to prevent violations linked to unauthorised or unnotified departures from the country.