Kuwait deported over 25,000 illegal expats in 2023: Report

The Kuwait Cabinet has approved a new draft residence law, modifying the previous 60-year-old statute, increasing penalties for violators, and prohibiting refuge for illegal expatriates. The approval was granted during the weekly Cabinet meeting, chaired by Acting Prime Minister and Interior and Defense Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah on Tuesday, November 12. The new draft law aims to prohibit trade in residency permits or iqamas, establish rules for expat deportation, and increase penalties for violators. The new law, consisting of seven chapters, outlines rules for the entry of expats, informing authorities, trading in residencies, related crimes, and penalties for violators, Arabic daily Al-Rai reported. One of the article prohibits trading in residencies by facilitating expat entry through visas or work permits, or renewing them for money or benefits. It also prohibits employers from forcing expats to work outside their work permit, allowing employees to work without a license, and withholding employee wages. The law prohibits expats from working without a permit, from sheltering or employing them, and from renting houses to illegal immigrants. The new law mandates expat sponsors to inform the interior ministry if their visas or residences have expired and they haven't left the country. In recent months, Kuwait has stepped up its assault on illegal iqamas, arresting thousands of illegal migrant workers. Kuwait has a population of 4.9 million, including 3.3 million expatriates. — Kuwait

Kuwait has deported over 25,000 illegal expats between January and August 19, 2023, averaging 108 individuals a day, Arabian Business reported.

According to orders from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Talal Al Khaled, the massive deportation effort primarily targets those found guilty of violating residence and labour laws in Kuwait.

The campaign aims to protect the country against law violators, particularly those engaged in illegal activities.

There are approximately 10,000 women among deportees. The reasons for deportation range from drug abuse and distribution to begging or any action that poses a threat to national security.

Kuwait’s crackdown on illegal expats

This crackdown follows Sheikh Talal Al Khaled’s instructions to bolster security measures, balance the demographics, and end irregular employment.

A top security source highlighted the nation’s commitment to this effort by disclosing plans for an extensive campaign that will target the estimated 100,000 people who are living in Kuwait against the law.

Moreover, Kuwait authorities clearly announced that companies or sponsors found providing refuge for these law violators will face severe penalties.