Kuwaiti Labor Market Jobs With Work VISA 2024 (Application Process)

There are major changes happening in Kuwait's labor market right now, with visa rules changing and certain industries experiencing labor shortages. This article gives a detailed rundown of the Kuwaiti labor market in 2024, including pay information, industries with a scarcity of workers, several kinds of work visas, and a how-to guide for anyone looking for a job or applying for a work visa.

Background of Labor Shortages in Kuwait

The COVID-19 pandemic, which severely limited the ability of non-Kuwaitis to enter the country, contributed to the severe scarcity of workers in Kuwait, which is affecting many different industries. The service industry, which includes food service establishments, is hit the worst, along with sectors including healthcare, information technology, banking, schools, and construction.

Average Salary and Labor Market Conditions in Kuwait in 2024

Sectors such as healthcare, oil and gas, information technology, banking and finance, education, and construction are experiencing the worst labor shortages in Kuwait. Medical professionals, nurses, pharmacists, engineers, geologists, computer programmers, IT security specialists, bookkeepers, auditors, financial analysts, educators, and managers of projects are in great demand.

Factors like nationality, industry, job, experience, and employer specifics impact worker salary differences in Kuwait. Expats usually don't make as much money as native Kuwaitis. Compared to industries like construction and hotels, the oil and gas industry has far higher profits. Skilled occupations, such as engineers, pay more than unskilled laborers, and this disparity is mostly attributable to factors like experience and education. The average monthly salary ranges from 1,493 KWD for all employees to approximately 338 KWD for expatriates.

To provide a broad perspective on income levels:

• General Average: Across all demographics and sectors, the typical monthly income in Kuwait hovers around KWD 1,493 (approximately USD 5,000). It’s important to note that this figure is an overarching average and doesn’t capture the wide salary disparities.
• Expatriate Earnings: Non-Kuwaiti employees generally earn less, with an average salary of about KWD 338 per month (approximately USD 1,100).
• Sector-specific Figures:
  • Construction and Real Estate: Monthly salaries range from KWD 320 to KWD 2,160.
  • General Labor: Compensation varies between KWD 190 to KWD 400 monthly

Types of Work Visas in Kuwait Suitable for Labor Workers

Kuwait offers various types of work visas for international applicants, including:

• Kuwaiti Contract Work Visa: For contract-based jobs, valid for up to three years.
• General Work Visa: The most common type, with a validity of one year.
• Kuwaiti Residence Visa: Required for long-term employment, valid for one year but renewable.
• Work Visa for Students in Kuwait: For foreign students wishing to work part-time alongside their studies.

Step-by-Step Guide to Labor Jobs and Visa Application for Kuwait

1. Job Search: Start by identifying sectors with labor shortages. Utilize job boards like Bayt.com and LinkedIn, and consider recruitment agencies for targeted job searches.
2. Secure a Job Offer: A job offer from a Kuwaiti employer is mandatory before applying for a work visa. Ensure the offer includes sponsorship.
3. Kuwaiti Work Type and Visa Application Process:
   • Choose the Correct Visa Type: Based on the job offer and intended stay duration, select the appropriate work visa.
   • Gather Required Documents: This includes a valid passport, employment contract, health insurance, and, for certain visas, a police-issued character certificate and medical test results.
   • Submit the Visa Application: Applications are generally submitted through the Kuwaiti embassy or consulate in your home country. An application fee of approximately US$20 or 20 Kuwaiti dinars is required.
4. Residence Permit: If planning to stay for a year or more, you’ll also need to apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Kuwait, submitting additional documentation including a physical exam report and proof of health insurance coverage.

Where to find Labor Market Jobs in Kuwait in 2024?

For foreigners seeking labor jobs in Kuwait following are the list of some top portals from where labor industry jobs can be found:

Government Departments:

• Ministry of Interior: Security, administrative roles.
• Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor: https://www.mosa.gov.kw/ (Arabic only)
• Public Authority for Manpower (PAM): https://www.manpower.gov.kw/ (Arabic only)

Labor Industry Job Finding Resources for Kuwait in 2024

• Online Job Portals: Bayt.com, Indeed, Edarabia, LinkedIn.
• Recruitment Agencies: Refer to the Kuwaiti Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor for licensed agencies.
• Direct Company Websites: Kuwait National Petroleum Company, Agility Logistics, M. H. Alshaya Co.The labor market in Kuwait presents numerous opportunities for skilled professionals from abroad, particularly in sectors where there are significant labor shortages. By understanding the types of work visas available, the application process, and focusing on in-demand sectors, international job seekers can effectively navigate the path to employment and residency in Kuwait.