Latest news with #KuwaitiNationals
Gulf Business
14-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
India launches e-visa for Kuwaitis: What you need to know
Image credit: Getty Images The Embassy of India in Kuwait officially launched the e-visa service for Kuwaiti nationals on Sunday, July 13, marking a significant step toward simplifying visa procedures and strengthening bilateral relations. During a press conference, the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Adarsh Swaika, called the initiative a 'crucial development' aimed at streamlining travel and boosting people-to-people ties between India and Kuwait, a Read- Fully online visa process The e-visa application is entirely digital and can be completed on the Applicants no longer need to visit the embassy in person. The service covers five main categories: tourism, business, medical, ayush-yoga, and conference visas. 'This initiative aligns with India's vision of expanding access and enhancing digital service delivery,' said Ambassador Swaika. The tourist visa is valid for up to five years, the business visa for up to one year, and the medical visa for up to 60 days. Processing time typically takes three to four business days, and the fees range from $40 to $80, depending on visa type and duration. Required Paper visas still accepted Ambassador Swaika confirmed that the Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those preferring traditional processing methods. Additionally, biometric fingerprints will be collected at Indian airports from arriving Kuwaiti travelers who use the e-visa system. Activities allowed under e-visa India's e-visa accommodates a wide range of short-term, non-formal activities, such as: Tourism and sightseeing Visiting friends or relatives Attending short-term yoga programs Enrolling in informal courses (language, music, art, cooking, etc.) of less than six months Volunteering for non-paid work (up to one month) Medical treatment under general or Indian systems of medicine Business engagements Attending government or private conferences, seminars, or workshops Acting as an attendant for an e-Medical visa holder Conditions for eligibility To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: Passport valid for at least six months at the time of application Must possess a return or onward journey ticket Should have sufficient funds for the duration of the stay Not applicable to holders of Pakistani passports or of Pakistani origin Not valid for diplomatic or official passport holders, or those with laissez-passer travel documents Each applicant must hold a separate passport Not valid for individuals with international travel documents other than a passport More details and Full list of Citizens from over 170 countries, including Kuwait, are eligible to apply for an Indian e-visa. The complete list is as follows: A–C Albania, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burundi, Canada, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic D–G Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Eswatini, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guyana H–L Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg M–N Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Niue Island, Norway O–S Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland T–Z Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City (Holy See), Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe Boosting bilateral mobility This initiative is part of India's broader digital diplomacy efforts to modernize consular services and encourage tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. Ambassador Swaika expressed hope that more Kuwaiti citizens will take advantage of this simplified system to explore India's tourism, medical, and educational offerings.
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Fly Jazeera Airways direct to Yerevan Starting July 8
Kuwait City - Jazeera Airways, Kuwait's leading low-cost carrier, will launch direct flights between Kuwait and Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, starting 8 July 2025. This new route opens up an exciting and affordable travel opportunity for passengers seeking to explore one of the world's oldest civilizations and a gem of the South Caucasus region. The service will operate three times a week, offering travelers greater connectivity and convenience as they discover Armenia's rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and year-round appeal. Ranked among the top 10 safest countries globally by the 2024 Numbeo Safety Index, Armenia promises an unforgettable experience, making it a perfect destination for summer holidays and beyond. Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Airways said: 'We are proud to be the only airline currently offering direct flights between Kuwait and Yerevan. Armenia is a fascinating destination, known for its scenic beauty, deep historical roots, and welcoming atmosphere. With visa-free access for Kuwaiti travelers, this new route offers a seamless, affordable way to explore a unique part of the world.' Visa-Free Travel for Kuwaiti Nationals For Kuwaiti nationals, Armenia offers a visa-free entry, making travel more accessible and hassle-free. Armenia recently also introduced visa-free entries to other nationals carrying a valid Kuwaiti residence permit. This, combined with Jazeera Airways' direct connectivity, affordable fares and convenient schedules, makes exploring Armenia easier than ever. H.E. Arsen Arakelyan, Ambassador of Armenia to Kuwait highlighted: 'It is vital to have direct flights between Yerevan and Kuwait and I am very pleased that Jazeera Airways takes sound steps in this direction. I believe that the company's flights will serve as a bridge connecting not only tourist roots, but also as tool building strong economic and trade ties between business communities, facilitating intercultural, educational, sport exchanges and raising people-to-people ties to a level that the peoples of two our friendly countries deserve. A Must-Visit Destination Armenia, a land where ancient history meets breathtaking natural beauty, offers travelers a journey like no other. With its rich heritage and warm hospitality, the country invites visitors to explore historic landmarks, ancient monasteries, and picturesque towns. From the cultural capital of Yerevan to the artistic city of Gyumri, the alpine retreats of Dilijan and Tsaghkadzor, and the serene wellness town of Jermuk, Armenia promises unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you're wandering through cobblestone streets of Goris, enjoying the mountain air of Stepanavan, or exploring the religious heart of Vagharshapat (Etchmiadzin), you'll find a blend of history, nature, and authentic Armenian cuisine that leaves a lasting impression. Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairperson of the Tourism Committee of Armenia, welcomed the new route: 'We are excited to see stronger ties between Armenia and Kuwait through Jazeera Airways' new direct flights. Armenia is a country of rich culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. This connection makes it easier for Kuwaiti travelers to experience our hospitality, explore our historical treasures, and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Armenian life. We look forward to welcoming more visitors and sharing with them the unique stories that make Armenia unforgettable.' About Jazeera Airways Founded in 2004, Jazeera Airways is a leading low-cost carrier based in Kuwait, serving over 5 million passengers across a network of more than 60 destinations in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe. Dedicated to offering affordable, high-quality air travel, Jazeera Airways caters to business, leisure, religious, and weekend travellers, all while maintaining the highest standards of safety and customer service. Jazeera Airways currently operates a modern and efficient fleet of 24 Airbus A320ceo and A320neo aircraft, enabling it to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact. 26 new aircraft from its orderbook, 18 A320neos and 8 A321neos are expected to arrive 2027 onwards. The only publicly traded airline on the Kuwait Stock Exchange (Boursa Kuwait), Jazeera Airways was recognized as a Fortune 500 Arabia company and named "Great Place to Work" in 2023. A trailblazer in the aviation sector, Jazeera Airways has introduced several digital initiatives to its customer experience and is one of the first to design, build, and operate its own terminal, Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5), at the Kuwait International Airport.
Zawya
10-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
KPC approves new emergency leave rules
KUWAIT CITY: In light of the tremendous efforts exerted by nationals working in the oil sector, their dedication to work and the desire of the oil leadership to provide more comfort that motivates them to join the sector, which has become an attractive environment for Kuwaiti talent of both genders; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) Sheikh Nawaf Al-Saud Al-Sabah issued a decision approving the amendment of the regulations for granting emergency leave, under the powers stipulated in the administrative regulations in force at the corporation, with the addition of some amendments, say reliable sources. Sources disclosed that the most important amendment states 'an employee or worker may be granted emergency leave not exceeding four days during the calendar year in the presence of emergency circumstances specific to him without submitting documents, provided that he obtains the approval of his direct supervisor before taking this leave. The leave shall be used separately, not interconnected, and shall not be linked to any other leave stipulated in the approved regulations.' Sources informed the newspaper that the aforementioned emergency leave shall be deducted from the 10 days allocated for emergency leave during the calendar year. The conditions also include standardizing the calculation of emergency leave, so that it shall be taken during the calendar year rather than the contractual year. The regulations in force regarding emergency leave related to the illness of a family member of the employee or worker, their hospitalization or a medical appointment shall be maintained. The resolution also requires the relevant authorities to take the necessary measures to implement this amendment. This resolution shall take effect at the beginning of July, and all conflicting resolutions shall be repealed, sources added. It is worth mentioning that the approval of the CEO of KPC to amend the emergency leave system is based on the recommendations issued by the Labor Relations Committee in its meeting no. 3/2025 held on April 8, 2025 regarding approval to amend the emergency leave system for workers in the oil sector, by allowing the employee or worker to go on emergency leave not exceeding four non-consecutive days during the calendar year, deducted from the 10 days approved for emergency leave with the approval of the direct supervisor before enjoying the leave. Sources also revealed that KPC will conduct administrative specialization tests for those who meet the conditions on June 13; indicating that the corporation -- through the job advertisements that it announces from time to time -- aims to attract competent manpower with the required specializations to ensure continuous leadership in the oil sector. Sources said there are more advantages for all employees in the companies affiliated with the corporation, especially since Sheikh Nawaf Al-Saud Al-Sabah always recommends to all leaders of the companies affiliated with the corporation the necessity of motivating the nationals working in the oil sector, while listening to all their demands in accordance with the regulations, especially since the approach of KPC is to implement a strategy to enhance reliance on national workforce and provide all the privileges that guarantee job security for nationals. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
08-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait's population nears 5mln, expatriates make up 68.6%
KUWAIT CITY - Kuwait's total population at the end of 2024 stood at approximately 4,987,826, according to the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). This figure comprises 1,567,983 Kuwaiti nationals and 3,419,843 non-Kuwaitis, indicating that expatriates constitute about 68.6% of the total population, while Kuwaitis make up approximately 31.4%. Among the Kuwaiti population, women outnumber men, with 794,923 Kuwaiti women compared to 773,060 Kuwaiti men, reflecting a 51% female share. However, when considering the entire population of Kuwait, men make up 61%, while women account for 39%. The Indian community remains the largest expatriate group in Kuwait, numbering 1,007,961 individuals by the end of 2024, up from 1,000,726 in 2023. This represents a modest growth of 0.7%. Indians constitute approximately 21% of Kuwait's total population and 29% of the expatriate population. The Egyptian community follows, with 657,280 members, marking a 2% increase from 644,042 in 2023. Egyptians make up about 13% of the total population and 19% of expatriates. Together, Indians and Egyptians account for approximately 34% of Kuwait's total population and 48% of the expatriate population. Regarding employment, the report indicates that Kuwaitis predominantly occupy government executive roles, military positions, clerical jobs, and teaching positions such as religious education and Arabic language. Non-Kuwaitis are commonly employed as housemaids, private car drivers, market vendors, laborers, janitors, and waiters, among other professions. This demographic overview underscores the significant role of both Kuwaiti nationals and expatriates in shaping the social and economic landscape of Kuwait. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( arabtimes
