ISLAMABAD: Kuwait has officially lifted its visa restrictions on Pakistani nationals after nearly two decades, paving the way for renewed opportunities in employment, business, and family visits for thousands of Pakistanis in the Gulf region. The decision reflects the growing economic ties between Pakistan and Kuwait and includes the reinstatement of work, family, business, and tourist visa categories.
This development follows high-level meetings between Pakistani officials and Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring a stable supply of skilled labour. The restrictions, originally imposed in 2011, were part of a broader security policy that affected several countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, due to concerns about regional instability.
With the visa ban lifted, there is renewed optimism among Pakistani workers seeking employment in Kuwait, which offers a strong economy and one of the world’s highest-valued currencies. Kuwait presents opportunities across various sectors such as construction, healthcare, technical services, driving, and domestic work. Educated and experienced professionals may also find openings in IT, engineering, accounting, and management.
Healthcare, in particular, is emerging as a high-demand field, with growing requirements for nurses, lab technicians, physiotherapists, and other support staff. Pakistani workers are well-positioned to meet these needs and have been recognised for their contributions in similar roles across the Gulf.
In addition to earning competitive wages, Pakistani expatriates contribute significantly to their home country through remittances, providing vital support to Pakistan’s economy. The increase in overseas employment is expected to enhance foreign exchange inflows and deepen economic cooperation between the two nations.
Muhammad Adnan Paracha, Vice Chairman of the Overseas Employment Promoters Association, stated that Kuwait’s decision marks a positive turning point in Pakistan-Kuwait relations and presents valuable opportunities for the Pakistani workforce. In 2024, 1,882 Pakistanis travelled to Kuwait, while 101 have arrived in the first five months of 2025. With the visa restrictions now lifted, that number is expected to rise sharply.
Paracha also highlighted that demand is growing for skilled labourers, engineers, web developers, security personnel, drivers, warehouse workers, electricians, masons, and foremen. Kuwait’s ongoing large-scale infrastructure projects are creating further demand for foreign workers, and Pakistan is well-positioned to meet this need.
Additionally, qualified Pakistani teachers, particularly in science, mathematics, and English, may find teaching opportunities in Kuwait’s private education sector.
To fully benefit from this development, there is a strong call for the Pakistani government to enhance training programs and streamline processes for sending skilled workers abroad. By improving these systems, Pakistan can better prepare its workforce for international job markets.
Paracha emphasised that renewed ties with Kuwait hold both diplomatic and economic significance. Increased job opportunities and remittances could provide a much-needed boost to Pakistan’s economy. He encouraged young Pakistanis to recognise this moment as a chance to prepare themselves to meet international standards and seize emerging global opportunities.
