Kuwait Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Kuwait
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to Kuwait. Kuwait offers a strategic Gulf location, strong economy, no personal income tax for most expatriates and diverse job opportunities in sectors such as oil & gas, finance, construction, healthcare, logistics and education. Immigration, work permits and residency rules can change — always verify the latest requirements through official Kuwaiti government sources before relocating.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Kuwait, including export packing, ocean/air freight shipping, customs coordination and final delivery to major areas such as Kuwait City, Salmiya, Hawalli, Al Ahmadi, Jahra and Mangaf.
1. Before You Move to Kuwait
1.1 Visa Types & Residency
Most expatriates require an employer-sponsored visa and work permit to live and work in Kuwait. Common visa and residency categories include:
- Employment Visa & Work Permit – employer-sponsored; most common pathway
- Family Residency Visa – for eligible dependants of a resident
- Investor / Business Visa – for qualifying business owners/investors
- Student Visa – for recognised degree programmes
- Visit Visa / Tourist Visa – short-term stays
1.2 Working in Kuwait
Key industries include petroleum and petrochemicals, energy, finance, healthcare, education, construction and transport. Employers normally arrange:
- Work permit and Labour Ministry approval
- Entry visa processing
- Medical test coordination
- Residency permit issuance after arrival
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Housing is available across urban areas and expat-friendly neighbourhoods such as Salmiya and Hawalli. Typical rental requirements include:
- Passport and visa details
- Residency permit or entry visa
- Security deposit (often 1–2 months)
- Rent paid in post-dated cheques
1.4 Banking & Finances
Kuwait uses the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). To open a local bank account, you will usually need:
- Passport
- Residence permit or entry visa
- Proof of address and employer letter
1.5 Healthcare & Insurance
Kuwait offers both public and private healthcare. Expatriates often rely on private health insurance plans, which are commonly sponsored by employers.
1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport with sufficient validity
- Attested educational certificates
- Employment contract or offer letter
- Marriage/birth certificates for dependants (attested)
- Police clearance certificate if requested
- Medical reports if required
2. Your First Weeks in Kuwait
2.1 Medical Examination & Biometrics
Most residents undergo a medical fitness test and biometric data collection as part of the residency permit process after arrival.
2.2 Residence Permit / Civil ID
Once your employer finalises the permit, you’ll receive a Civil ID, which is your primary form of official identification for banking, SIM cards, utilities and many services.
2.3 Setting Up Utilities & Services
- Electricity & water accounts (Kuwait Electricity & Water Authority)
- Internet and mobile SIM (Zain, Ooredoo)
- Bank account setup
3. Kuwait at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Kuwait is located at the northern edge of the Arabian Gulf, with major urban centres around Kuwait City, Salmiya, Hawalli, Al Ahmadi, Jahra and Mangaf.
3.2 Politics & Economy
Kuwait is an emirate with a strong petroleum-based economy, expanding financial and services sectors, and ongoing development plans aiming to diversify economic activity.
3.3 Climate & Weather
Kuwait has a desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. Dust storms are common in transitional seasons.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose Kuwait
- Competitive tax structure and no income tax for most expats
- Strategic Gulf location and travel access
- Strong employment opportunities in engineering, finance, healthcare and construction
- English widely spoken in business contexts
- Safe environment and modern infrastructure
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Life in Kuwait combines traditional culture and modern amenities. Key cost considerations include:
- Rent (often paid via post-dated cheques)
- Utilities (electricity, water)
- Private healthcare and insurance
- School and education expenses
- Transportation and car ownership costs
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Kuwait has public bus services. Many residents also use taxis and ride-hailing services.
6.2 Driving in Kuwait
Kuwait drives on the right-hand side. Many expatriates rely on their own vehicles due to city layout and commuting patterns.
6.3 Air Travel
Kuwait International Airport offers regional and global connections.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Kuwait is a Muslim country with strong family and community traditions
- Respect for local customs and dress codes is recommended
- English is widely spoken in many contexts
- Hospitality and community events are appreciated
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Kuwait City: Kuwait Towers, Grand Mosque, souks
- Salmiya: Waterfront, cafés, malls
- Failaka Island: Archaeology and heritage
- Souq Al-Mubarakiya: Traditional market and local culture
- Al Shaheed Park: Urban green space and museums