What is Visa 18 in Kuwait? Fast & Easy Guide
Visa 18 in Kuwait is one of the most common residency visas issued to foreign nationals working in the private sector. This visa is essential for expatriates who receive job offers from private companies and allows them to legally live and work in Kuwait. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what Visa 18 is, how to apply, requirements, fees, processing time, categories, and how to book an appointment through the Meta platform.
Table Of Content
What is Visa 18 in Kuwait?
Visa 18, also known as the Kuwait Private Sector Work Visa, is granted to foreigners employed by private companies in Kuwait. It falls under Article 18 of the Foreigners’ Residence Law and is processed by the General Department of Immigration. Upon arrival in Kuwait, applicants must complete residency procedures to receive their Civil ID and finalize their status.
How to Apply for Visa 18 in Kuwait
To apply for a Visa 18 in Kuwait, follow these steps through the General Department of Immigration:
- Book an appointment via the Meta platform for your visa application.
- Visit the immigration office on the scheduled date and time.
- Submit all required documents during your appointment.
- Fill out the visa application form along with the security clearance form.
- Have both forms signed by the authorized representative of your sponsoring company.
- Provide a declaration and pledge form from the sponsor confirming the accuracy of the application information.
- Pay the applicable visa fees and wait for your visa to be issued.
Required Documents For Visa 18
Following documents are required for Visa 18 Make sure to prepare the following documents:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
- Completed Visa Application form.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
- Job offer letter or covering letter from the employer.
- Medical report (from an authorized clinic).
- Police clearance certificate.
- Educational and professional certificates (if applicable).
- Work permit issued by the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM).
- Valid copy of sponsor’s passport and signature approval.
How to Book an Appointment for Article 18 Visa
To schedule an appointment for a Visa 18 application in Kuwait, follow these simplified steps through the Meta platform: [1]
- Visit the Meta Portal website “From Here“.
- Select “Register as a New User” If you don’t already have an account.
- Enter your Civil ID and Civil ID Serial Number in the relevant fields.
- Provide your mobile number and email address.
- Agree to the terms and conditions, then click “Register”.
- Enter the confirmation codes sent to your phone and email.
- Create and confirm a new password to activate your account.
- Log in to your newly created account on the Meta platform.
- Select “Appointment Search” From the menu.
- Click on “Service Categories” Under the Ministry of Interior.
- Choose “General Department of Immigration” Under Services.
- Click “Apply” Next to the visa service you need.
- Select the preferred service center by clicking “Apply” Again.
- Pick a suitable date and time from the available slots.
- Confirm your booking to finalize the appointment.
Kuwait Visa 18 Categories
Visa 18 in Kuwait is divided into two main categories, each with its own conditions and benefits. The table below outlines the key differences:
| Visa 18 Type | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Project Visa |
|
| Non-Project Visa |
|
Article 18 Visa Fees in Kuwait
The cost of obtaining an Article 18 visa in Kuwait depends on the type of entry required. Below is a breakdown of the applicable fees:
| Visa Type | Applicable Fee |
|---|---|
| Single-entry Article 18 visa | 3 Kuwaiti Dinars (KD) |
| Multiple-entry Article 18 visa | 1 Kuwaiti Dinar (KD) per month |
Visa 18 Processing Time
The typical processing time for Visa 18 ranges between 2 and 7 working days, depending on documentation and workload at the Immigration Department.
Conclusion
Visa 18 is an essential work visa for expatriates joining Kuwait’s private sector. By understanding the application steps, requirements, and categories, applicants can ensure a smooth process. Booking an appointment through the Meta platform is key to completing the procedures efficiently. With proper documentation, Visa 18 can be issued within a few working days.
Questions & Answers
Visa 18 is a private sector work visa granted to foreign nationals employed by Kuwaiti companies.
Foreigners with valid job offers from private sector companies in Kuwait are eligible for Visa 18.
You must book an appointment via the Meta portal and submit required documents at the Immigration Department.
You need a passport, visa application, work permit, sponsor’s documents, medical report, and police clearance.
The fee is KD 3 for a single-entry visa and KD 1 per month for a multiple-entry visa.
Processing usually takes 2 to 7 working days, depending on document verification and application volume.
Yes, Non-Project Visa 18 allows transfer after a three-month notice, while Project Visa has restrictions.
Use the Meta portal, register with your Civil ID, and select an appointment with the Immigration Department.
Project visas are non-transferable and tied to one employer; Non-Project visas offer more job flexibility.
Yes, a valid work permit from the Public Authority for Manpower is required to apply for Visa 18.