Kuwait will make health insurance compulsory for all foreign residents and visitors starting December 23, 2025, in a major overhaul of healthcare coverage for non-citizens. The move follows new executive regulations issued by the Ministry of Health under Law No. 1 of 1999 and will apply to both residency permits and visit visas. Authorities say the reform will strengthen healthcare financing, enhance transparency, and ease pressure on public hospitals.
Who the Rule Applies To
The mandatory requirement covers all expatriates living in Kuwait and foreign visitors entering the country. This includes public and private sector employees, investors, students, property owners, self-sponsored residents, family dependents, and short-term visitors. Health insurance will be directly linked to visa issuance and renewal, and visas will not be approved or extended without valid coverage.
The Ministry of Health clarified that insurance validity will align with the visa duration, not the passport’s expiry date, ensuring uninterrupted coverage throughout a person’s legal stay.
Revised Health Insurance Fees
Under the new framework, most foreign residents will pay a standard annual health insurance fee of 100 Kuwaiti dinars, replacing the earlier variable rates based on age, sponsorship, or relationship status.
Workers in select sectors—including agriculture, fishing, shepherding, and dairy-related activities—will pay a reduced annual fee of 10 dinars.
Visitors and entry visa holders will pay five dinars under the public health insurance system and must also obtain coverage from approved private insurers. This blended public–private model is designed to ensure basic access while managing short-term healthcare costs. Officials estimate the revised structure could generate over 200 million dinars annually, supporting healthcare infrastructure and expanding the role of private insurers.
Exemptions
Several groups are exempt under the new regulations, including foreign spouses and children of Kuwaiti citizens, parents of Kuwaitis, widowed or divorced Kuwaiti women with children, and up to three domestic workers sponsored by Kuwaiti households. Diplomatic missions and official delegations are also excluded. Certain Bedoun groups and newborns receive temporary exemptions, with infants covered for up to four months while residency documentation is completed.
Rationale Behind the Move
Health authorities say mandatory coverage will ensure financial protection for medical care, reduce unpaid treatment costs, and curb overcrowding in public hospitals. Linking insurance to visas is expected to improve compliance and accountability, particularly during medical emergencies. The policy is also part of broader reforms aimed at sustainability, cost control, and equitable access to healthcare.
With the December 23 rollout nearing, foreign residents and travelers are advised to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and account for insurance costs in their travel or relocation plans.
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