KUWAIT CITY, March 29: The Kuwait Cultural Office at the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington has announced that, according to the articles 3 and 24 of scholarship regulations, scholarship students must respect the laws of the host country and represent Kuwait positively by adhering to all applicable regulations. Failure to comply may result in visa revocation, loss of entry status to the U.S., and potential deportation, which could severely affect a student’s academic progress.

The office urged all students to fully adhere to the laws and guidelines to ensure a successful academic experience. The Cultural Counselor and Head of the Kuwaiti Cultural Office in Washington Dr. Said Yousef Al-Rifai issued a circular to all students in the United States in which he stressed the importance of strict adherence to US laws to ensure their legal safety and academic progress without issues that could hinder their studies. He highlighted some important laws and guidelines that students must follow, including traffic regulations. Dr. Al-Rifai explained that students should obtain an American driver’s license once they are settled in their residence and to stop using their Kuwaiti license. They should familiarize themselves with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations, as requirements differ between states

Comply They must comply with traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic signals, vehicle insurance, public parking laws, and pay all relevant vehicle-related fees and taxes according to state laws. Students were also reminded to promptly pay any traffic violations to avoid legal penalties and ensure proper vehicle registration and insurance under the vehicle owner/driver’s name.

Meanwhile, the office stressed the importance of adhering to immigration laws, urging students to update and validate their I-20 form with the International Student Office at their university, comply with academic attendance requirements, avoid unexcused absences, update their address with relevant authorities when moving to a new residence, and refrain from participating in protests or gatherings that could jeopardize their legal status in the country. Regarding housing and rental agreements, the Cultural Office advised students to adhere to their lease terms and pay utility bills for electricity, water, gas and garbage services on time to avoid late fees. Students should respect housing regulations, maintain their residences properly, and avoid damaging any property to prevent legal or financial repercussions. For banking and financial transactions, students were reminded to follow the terms of their bank accounts, use them legally, avoid late payments, and ensure they do not exceed available balances, as this could impact both their legal and financial status