After 19 long years, the Government of Kuwait has officially lifted its visa ban on Pakistani citizens.
The Gulf state has now reopened its doors by resuming the issuance of various visa categories to Pakistanis, including work, family, visit, tourist, and commercial visas. This major development is being hailed as a turning point for thousands of Pakistanis seeking new opportunities abroad, especially in Kuwait’s workforce, business markets, and tourism industry.
The visa ban was first imposed in 2011 due to security concerns, affecting passport holders from Pakistan, Iran, Syria, and Afghanistan. Since then, both Pakistan and Kuwait have been engaging in negotiations to address these concerns. Finally, the breakthrough came this year, with several Gulf-based media outlets confirming the news. Dr. Zaffar Iqbal, Pakistan’s ambassador to Kuwait, also confirmed that Kuwait had resumed visa issuance starting this May. He added that a wide range of applications are now being approved, restoring vital travel and employment ties between the two nations.
Online Visas And Job Opportunities
One of the most promising outcomes of this unban is in Kuwait’s healthcare sector. Ambassador Iqbal announced that Kuwait plans to hire 1,200 nurses from Pakistan. An initial group of 125 nurses was expected to arrive last week, although their travel got delayed due to housing issues. Special teams are working to resolve the matter quickly, and their arrival is now expected in the coming days. The new employment initiative comes as part of efforts to strengthen labor cooperation between the two countries.
The focal person from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis, Mustafa Malik, welcomed the unban and highlighted its importance for employment, trade, and tourism. He confirmed that all these visa types can now be applied for and obtained through an online platform. According to him, the visa resumption will not only benefit individuals but also contribute to Pakistan’s national economy through increased foreign exchange remittances.
The MoU Between Pakistan And Visas
In another encouraging update, a new labor Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is in its final stages between Pakistan and Kuwait. Ambassador Iqbal revealed that several provisions of the MoU are already being implemented ahead of its official signing. This agreement is expected to make worker mobility more efficient and open more job routes for Pakistanis in Kuwait.
This move comes at a time when many applicants face difficulties getting visas to European countries. Data from the European Commission indicates that in 2024, out of over 11.7 million visa applications to Schengen countries, about 14.8% were rejected. Hence, Gulf countries like Kuwait present a promising alternative for skilled Pakistani workers looking abroad.
Additionally, Mustafa Malik mentioned that Pakistan is also working on similar labor agreements with other countries like Italy. He stated that an annual job quota has already been allocated for Pakistanis there. He also noted that other Arab nations are showing increased interest in hiring skilled professionals from Pakistan, which is another positive sign for the country’s overseas workforce.
With this unban, Kuwait and Pakistan are now entering a new phase of stronger relations, focusing on mutual growth and cooperation. The development is expected to bring hope and opportunities for countless Pakistani families looking forward to a better future in the Gulf region.
Sources: ARY News, Express Tribune, and The News International.
