The Embassy of India in Kuwait is experiencing a surge in applications and requests related to the recently announced amnesty scheme of the Government of Kuwait. To ensure efficient service for all Indian expats, the Embassy has prioritized the issuance of Emergency Certificates and Passports.
What is the amnesty scheme?
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has launched a three-month amnesty for people who violate their stay in Kuwait. Expatriates living in the country illegally can now correct their status either by paying a fine and obtaining new residency, or by leaving without a fine. This initiative provides individuals with the opportunity to comply with the regulations and resolve their residency status.
Key details of the amnesty
The amnesty scheme allows undocumented Indian residents in Kuwait to either:
- Regulate their stay by paying fines and getting a new visa.
- Leave the country without paying fines.
- Validity period: The amnesty scheme will run from March 17 to June 17, during Ramadan.
- Fines and Remediation: Violators may adjust their status by paying fines of KD 2 (Kuwaiti dinars) per day, up to a maximum of KD 600. Those unable to pay the fine can leave without penalty, but must follow new procedures if they want to return.
Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the amnesty order may result in deportation and legal penalties.
Appeals Process: Residents who face administrative hurdles or legal issues have the option to appeal for a review to the Department of Residency.
Important contact information
Embassy of India in Kuwait: +965 65501767 and +965 65501769
Don’t forget to follow the Indian Embassy social media channels for all updates regarding the amnesty program and issuance of travel documents.
Who can benefit from this amnesty?
This program is designed to help the tens of thousands of unregistered Indian expats currently residing in Kuwait. They can either correct their legal status or leave the country without financial repercussions within a specified time frame.
Traveling during Ramadan
Expatriates who decide to leave Kuwait should be aware that Ramadan may affect travel arrangements. It is advisable to book tickets and plan your trip well in advance.
Dealing with residence offences
While specific numbers remain undisclosed, it is estimated that tens of thousands of expatriates are currently residing illegally in Kuwait.
This amnesty initiative follows a similar program granted in early 2021 that aims to address residency violations by offering individuals the opportunity to correct their status or leave the country within a set time frame without financial repercussions.
The Embassy of India stands ready to help its nationals navigate this process and provide support and guidance during this critical period.
