Firstly, we would like to say that as always you are doing a great service by explaining to us all the procedures and rules in Kuwait. I really appreciate your help in understanding the complex laws of Kuwait.

My question to you: I am currently on a different visa and my company is planning to get me a new visa as my old visa is not transferable.

Could you please let me know the procedure for this because I have heard that if we cancel the visa and exit the country the company cannot get a new visa until 2 years have passed.

Name withheld Answer: Some people really don’t understand the laws in the country but still offer advice which more often than not is totally wrong and lands people in a totally wrong situation.

Please understand that if you leave Kuwait legally i.e. after fulfilling all the requirements, like getting the clearance and cancelling your residence, then you can re-enter Kuwait as soon as you get a new visa.

There are no restrictions in this case. The restrictions on re-entering Kuwait after a certain period is only for people who are deported for various reasons, left Kuwait without cancellation of their residence or those who are absconding from their employers, etc. But if you take the legal route to leave the country, you will have no problems in re-entering the country.