Kuwait Ends 19-Year Visa Ban on Pakistanis — Thousands of Jobs Expected
ISLAMABAD/KUWAIT CITY — June 8, 2025:
In a landmark decision set to reshape Pakistan-Kuwait relations, Kuwait has officially lifted its 19-year visa ban on Pakistani citizens, paving the way for thousands of employment opportunities across multiple sectors, particularly in healthcare, oil, and skilled labor.
The Gulf nation, facing a growing shortage of qualified workers, has begun recruiting actively from Pakistan. As part of its first phase, Kuwait is welcoming an initial batch of 1,200 Pakistani nurses to support its expanding healthcare infrastructure.
The policy reversal comes at a crucial time for both countries. For Pakistan, struggling with a sluggish economy and rising unemployment, the move offers renewed hope for overseas employment and foreign remittance growth. For Kuwait, it provides access to a large pool of skilled professionals eager to contribute to key industries.
Visa Categories Reopened
With this diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistanis are now eligible for a full range of visas, including:
- Work visas for professionals and skilled laborers
- Family visas for dependents
- Tourist and business visas, reviving people-to-people and commercial ties
A New Era of Cooperation
Analysts say the move marks the beginning of a new era of economic collaboration and labor mobility between the two nations. It also signals a commitment to closer diplomatic ties and improved people-to-people connectivity.
“After nearly two decades, this decision is not just about visas—it’s about restoring trust and opportunity,” said a spokesperson from Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis. “It will significantly benefit Pakistan’s workforce and contribute to Kuwait’s economic development.”
Why Now?
Kuwait’s labor demand has surged due to expansion in the oil, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors. The country is turning to traditional labor partners like Pakistan to meet its workforce gaps. According to Gulf-based recruitment agencies, thousands of job openings are now available, particularly for:
- Doctors, nurses, and healthcare technicians
- Petroleum engineers and oilfield workers
- Electricians, plumbers, and general technicians
Mutual Gains
Pakistan, which sends over 10 million workers abroad annually, sees Gulf nations as a critical source of remittances. In FY 2023–24, remittances from the GCC made up over 60% of Pakistan’s total foreign remittance inflows. With visa access restored to Kuwait, these numbers are expected to climb.
Meanwhile, Kuwait stands to gain from a cost-effective and experienced labor force that has historically contributed to its development across various sectors.
Bottom Line:
Kuwait’s 2025 decision to lift the long-standing visa ban on Pakistanis is more than a policy shift—it’s a strategic realignment that benefits both nations. It opens doors for skilled Pakistani workers while giving Kuwait the manpower it needs to sustain economic growth.
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By Media Bites News Desk – for www.mediabites.com.pk
