How much does a Kuwait work permit cost?

The Article 18 work permit fee is KWD 325 (~$1,055 USD). Total employer cost ranges from KWD 400–600 including all fees.

What’s the difference between Article 18, 17, and 20?

Article 18 is for private sector (most common), Article 17 for government sector, and Article 20 for domestic workers. Each has different requirements and fees.

What is the GAMCA medical exam?

GAMCA is the medical exam required for all workers traveling to GCC countries. Done at approved centers in Pakistan, it includes blood tests, X-rays, and clinical examination.

Can the employer sponsor the worker’s family?

Yes, if the worker’s salary is KWD 800 or more per month. Sponsorship covers spouse and children under 18.

How much does a Kuwait work permit cost?

The Article 18 work permit fee is KWD 325 (~$1,055 USD). Total employer cost ranges from KWD 400–600 including all fees.

What’s the difference between Article 18, 17, and 20?

Article 18 is for private sector (most common), Article 17 for government sector, and Article 20 for domestic workers. Each has different requirements and fees.

What is the GAMCA medical exam?

GAMCA is the medical exam required for all workers traveling to GCC countries. Done at approved centers in Pakistan, it includes blood tests, X-rays, and clinical examination.

Can the employer sponsor the worker’s family?

Yes, if the worker’s salary is KWD 800 or more per month. Sponsorship covers spouse and children under 18.

Kuwait work visa documents and passport \u2014 employer visa guide

Kuwait Work Visa Guide \u2014 Everything Employers Need to Know

Article 18 | Article 17 | Article 20 \u2014 complete process guides

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Visa Types Overview

Type	Category	Duration	Cost
Article 18	Private Sector	2 years renewable	KWD 325
Article 17	Government Sector	2 years	Varies
Article 20	Domestic Workers	2 years	Varies

Article 18 Process Step-by-Step

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Cost Breakdown

Item	KWD	USD
Work Permit Fee	325	~1,055
Transfer Fee (if applicable)	150	~487
GAMCA Medical	~5	~16
Document Attestation	~20	~65
Airfare	~50–80	~162–260

Recent Changes (2025)

✓Work permit fee increased to KWD 325
✓Transfer fee standardized at KWD 150
✓Family sponsorship minimum KWD 800/month
✓Visa ban on Pakistanis lifted

Frequently Asked Questions

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Kuwait Work Visa Guide \u2014 Everything Employers Need to Know

Visa Types Overview

Article 18 Process Step-by-Step

1. PAM Registration & Quota Approval

2. Work Permit Application (KWD 325)

3. GAMCA Medical in Pakistan

4. Entry Visa at Kuwait Embassy

5. Arrival, Fingerprinting, Local Medical

6. Iqama (Residency) Issuance

Cost Breakdown

Recent Changes (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions

Let IMP Handle Your Visa Process