Kuwait reverses decision on illegal immigrants, decides deportation

HAWALLI – In a significant development, the Government of Kuwait has announced its decision to deport illegal foreigners.

The decision to deport the expatriates comes after the suspension of a brief-lived decree that introduced a fine-for-amnesty scheme.

The suspended decree, which allowed illegal foreigners entering the country before 2020 to change their status by paying specific fines, is no longer in effect.

According to a security source quoted by local media outlets, the Interior Ministry is proceeding with its plan to deport residency rule violators from the country, as it has done previously.

The Kuwaiti newspaper Al Anba cited the interior ministry’s directive to halt the implementation of the earlier decree.
Approximately 110,000 foreigners living illegally in the country were expected to benefit from this arrangement, but the plan has now been reversed.

It’s worth noting that Kuwait deported a record 42,000 residents last year for various violations, including breaches of residence and labor laws and involvement in crimes.

In recent years, Kuwait has intensified measures against illegal foreigners, warning expatriates against aiding unlawful residents. As per the new reforms, those found covering up or sheltering illegal foreigners are also likely to face the wrath of the authorities.

Additionally, Kuwaiti individuals or companies employing illegal foreigners will now be subject to charges under new laws in the country.

Furthermore, Kuwait is working to address population imbalances by prioritizing the employment of its citizens over foreigners, following a policy known as ‘Kuwaitisation’.

Amid economic challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, there are growing calls in the country to limit the employment of foreigners, with concerns raised about the strain on infrastructure facilities caused by migrant workers.

Kuwait, a Middle Eastern country, has a population of approximately 4.6 million, with around 3.2 million being expatriates. Its economy relies heavily on oil exports, contributing to substantial wealth. As one of the world’s wealthiest nations per capita, Kuwait invests in infrastructure and social programs.