Immigrating to Kuwait: Everything you need to know about your visa and medical examination
Are you planning to move to Kuwait? Perhaps for a new career in the oil or energy sector? Then proper preparation is essential. Applying for a visa to Kuwait and the obligatory medical examination can seem challenging, but with the right knowledge and steps, this process will go smoothly. In this blog, we will take you through the most important issues: visa requirements, medical examinations and other practical tips.
To work or live in Kuwait, you need a valid visa. Depending on your situation, there are different types of visas available:
Work visa – By invitation from a company or your new employer in Kuwait.
Tourist visa – Short stay for business travel or exploration.
How do you apply for a visa to Kuwait?
The process of applying for a visa to Kuwait is through the Consulate of Kuwait or through your prospective employer. The main steps are:
- Submit documents: passport, passport photos, employer statement and medical test results.
- Undergo medical examination: a comprehensive health check is required.
- Legalize your visa: some documents need to be verified.
- Waiting time: processing time may vary, so start on time.
A visa application to Kuwait includes a mandatory medical examination. This is an important step, especially for work-related visas.
What does the medical examination for Kuwait entail?
The requirements of the medical examination depend on the type of visa you are applying for. Sometimes your future employer has health clearance requirements. In other cases, the requirements of the consulate of Kuwait apply. In our experience, they always involve the following:
- Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis
- General health and fitness for work
- Blood and urine tests
- Chest X-ray
The examination must be performed by a BIG-registered doctor and must also be an independent medical examiner. You can take the results to the consulate to apply for your visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a visa to Kuwait cost?
The costs varies depending on the type of visa.
For the costs of a medical examination, it depends on the requirements of your individual case.
For an indication, please call 0228 543 903.
Do I need a medical examination for Kuwait?
Yes, a comprehensive medical examination is required for work visas.
Every week we see people for medical examinations for Kuwait.
How long does a visa application take?
On average, several weeks, depending on the approval of documents and medical tests.
Count two weeks for the results of the medical test. Often we are faster.
How long does the process take?
You can often get an appointment with us within two weeks. You should count on two additional weeks if your medical statement includes lab results on such things as blood or urine values. Sometimes our lab is faster with the results, but allow 10 business days. Therefore, it is wise to schedule your health check early so that your visa application is not delayed.
Cost of a visa for Kuwait
The cost of a visa application for Kuwait varies depending on the type of visa and any additional legalizations. Count on fees for:
- Visa application itself
- Medical examination – for the cost of your medical examination, please call: 0228 543 903
- Legalization of documents
- Any additional insurance
An international driver’s license is useful if you plan to drive in Kuwait. This is easy to apply for at agencies such as the ANWB.
Conclusion: Starting your new adventure well prepared
A new career in Kuwait offers many opportunities, but also requires good preparation. Make sure you arrange your visa and medical examination in a timely manner to have a stressless start of your new adventure.
We perform this examination at our locations in: Almere, Andijk, Hoorn, Heerhugowaard, Texel and Zaandam.
For an appointment, please call us at 0228 – 543 903 or fill out our contact form.