Islamabad, May 25, 2025 – In a landmark development aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties, Kuwait has resumed the issuance of a full range of visas to Pakistani citizens, according to Pakistan’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Zaffar Iqbal.
The announcement is being seen as a major stride in enhancing the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and Kuwait, while also helping the Gulf state meet its growing labor market needs.
As part of this renewed cooperation, 1,200 Pakistani nurses are scheduled for deployment to bolster Kuwait’s healthcare sector, which is currently under strain. Though the first group of 125 nurses experienced delays due to housing arrangements, Dr. Iqbal assured that dedicated task forces are addressing the issues, and their arrival is anticipated shortly.
Since May, Pakistani nationals have started receiving approvals across several visa types — including work, family visit, dependent, tourist, and commercial visas — restoring vital avenues for employment, travel, and family reunification after a prolonged hiatus.
Additionally, Pakistan and Kuwait are in the final stages of signing a new labor memorandum of understanding (MoU). While the document is being finalized, key elements of the agreement are already being implemented, according to the ambassador. The goal is to enhance worker migration processes and improve regulatory coordination between the two nations.
Dr. Iqbal emphasized the historical bond between the two countries, highlighting how Pakistani engineers and laborers played a key role in building Kuwait’s infrastructure as far back as the 1960s and 70s. He described the bilateral relationship as one rooted in “mutual respect and collaboration.”
Today, over 93,000 Pakistanis reside in Kuwait, contributing notably in fields like healthcare, education, and technical services. The ambassador described them as well-regarded, integral members of Kuwaiti society.
He also pointed to Pakistan’s potential in key sectors such as food security, agriculture, housing, and infrastructure, which align with Kuwait’s Vision 2035 — a roadmap for the nation’s development. Kuwaiti firms are already active investors in Pakistan, particularly in hospitality and infrastructure, reflecting deep economic ties.
Dr. Iqbal recalled Pakistan’s military support during Kuwait’s liberation from Iraqi occupation, noting it as a milestone that laid the foundation for lasting defense cooperation. High-level interactions between both governments have increased, further strengthening diplomatic, economic, and strategic collaboration.
Kuwait has also backed Pakistan’s successful campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a move that received broad international endorsement.
With visa issuance now reopened, Pakistani professionals and workers are encouraged to take full advantage of the new opportunities, as the historic bond between the two nations enters a new chapter.
