SynopsisKuwait has announced eligibility criteria for its 15-year Investor Residency Permit. This long-term visa program is now operational for foreign investors and their families. Eligible applicants include company owners, directors, and senior management with specific investment requirements. The permit aims to boost Kuwait's appeal as an investment destination. Separately, a unified GCC tourist visa is expected to launch in 2026.AgenciesSkyline of Kuwait CityKuwait has announced the eligibility criteria for its 15-year Investor Residency Permit, paving the way for the long-term visa programme to become operational after the residency period was extended earlier this year, according to a report by Fragomen.The long-term residency scheme is aimed at foreign investors associated with eligible investment entities in Kuwait and also covers certain family members.Who is eligible?According to the new rules, eligible applicants include owners, partners, directors and senior management of qualifying investment entities, along with their spouses, children and parents.Also Read: Germany permanent residency: What it costs and how long it takesApplicants must have no criminal record and hold a passport with at least six months' validity.Investment criteriaTo qualify, the investment entity must be a company or branch of a foreign company established in Kuwait for direct investment purposes. It must hold a valid investment licence issued by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) and comply with the country's Kuwaitization requirements.Also Read: This European city is the world's most liveable in 2026. Here's where India standsThe investment entity must also have a minimum investment value of KWD 5 million and at least KWD 1 million in paid-up capital deposited in a Kuwait-based bank account.Why it mattersThe Investor Residency Permit is introduced to strengthen Kuwait's appeal as an investment destination by offering eligible foreign investors long-term residency of up to 15 years.Although the permit was introduced in 2013, the residency period was extended to 15 years in January 2026. However, the programme could not be implemented until the eligibility criteria were notified. With the latest rules now in place, the permit has become operational.Separately, Kuwait continues to work with other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states on the proposed GCC Grand Tours Unified Tourist Visa, which is expected to allow travellers to visit all GCC countries under a single visa. The unified visa is currently expected to be launched in 2026. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now