Get Your Kuwait Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: You are considered a Kuwaiti citizen if born in Kuwait to a Kuwaiti father. Children born to a Kuwaiti mother and unknown or stateless father may also be eligible.
- By Descent: Citizenship may be granted to individuals born abroad to a Kuwaiti father.
- By Marriage : A foreign woman married to a Kuwaiti man may acquire citizenship after 15 years of marriage and residency. The reverse (foreign man married to Kuwaiti woman) is not eligible.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners may apply after 20 years of continuous legal residency (15 years for Arab nationals), subject to strict government approval and security clearance.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Kuwait does not permit dual citizenship. Acquiring another nationality without prior government approval results in automatic loss of Kuwaiti citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your eligibility (descent, marriage, or naturalization).
- Apply through the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait.
- Submit personal documents, background checks, and proof of residency and integration.
- Complete interviews and security screenings.
- Renounce any other nationality prior to final approval (if applicable).
Benefits of Kuwaiti Citizenship
- Access to generous social welfare, housing, and healthcare benefits
- Employment in government and public sector
- Right to vote and participate in national affairs
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries with a Kuwaiti passport
Frequently asked questions.
Does Kuwait allow dual citizenship?
No. Kuwait strictly prohibits dual citizenship. Acquiring another nationality without prior government approval will result in revocation of Kuwaiti citizenship.
Can I become a Kuwaiti citizen through marriage?
Only in some cases. A foreign woman married to a Kuwaiti man can apply after 15 years of marriage and residency. The law does not extend this right to foreign men married to Kuwaiti women.
How long do I need to live in Kuwait to naturalize?
Generally, 20 years of continuous residency are required. Arab nationals may apply after 15 years. Approval is discretionary and limited.
Can I inherit Kuwaiti citizenship from my mother?
In limited cases, yes. Children of Kuwaiti mothers and stateless or unknown fathers may apply, but approval is rare and discretionary.
Do I have to renounce my previous citizenship?
Yes. Kuwait requires applicants to renounce all other nationalities prior to receiving Kuwaiti citizenship.
Do dual nationals pay taxes in both countries?
Kuwait does not impose personal income tax. If you are a citizen of another country that does, you may still be liable there, depending on your tax residence.