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Kuwait has announced a new policy restricting access to public healthcare facilities for individuals holding temporary visit visas. The regulation, which came into effect in August 2025, bars these visitors from receiving treatment at government-run hospitals and health centers.
According to Kuwait’s Ministry of Health, the decision aims to reduce the strain on the country’s public healthcare system, which already faces a high patient load from citizens and residents with long-term visas. Officials have stated that healthcare services at government hospitals and primary health centers will now be reserved for Kuwaiti nationals and expatriates holding valid residency permits.
Under the new rules, individuals on temporary visit visas, including tourists, relatives visiting family members, and short-term business travelers, must seek medical care in private hospitals and clinics. This change could significantly increase out-of-pocket expenses for visitors since treatment in private healthcare facilities in Kuwait is typically costlier than in government hospitals.
Medical emergencies might continue to be handled, but details on the extent of emergency care available to visit visa holders in public facilities remain limited according to VisaVerge.com. In cases where hospitalization is required, such patients will likely be directed to private institutions.
Kuwait has a mixed healthcare system, with government-run hospitals providing subsidized or free care for citizens and residents. However, the growing population and rising demand for medical services have increased pressure on public facilities. Authorities said that the exclusion of temporary visitors from public healthcare is intended to prioritize resources for long-term residents and nationals.
The move is expected to impact foreign visitors, including a significant number of Indian expatriates’ family members who travel to Kuwait on visit visas. Travel and tourism experts have advised prospective visitors to arrange comprehensive health insurance before arrival to cover potential medical expenses in private facilities.
The policy follows similar steps taken by some Gulf nations to regulate the use of public healthcare infrastructure and ensure sustainability.
What is a visit visa?
A visit visa is a short-term permit issued to foreigners who want to enter Kuwait for tourism, family visits, or business trips. These visas usually range from one month to three months and do not grant the right to work or live long-term in the country.
Why does this rule matter?
Earlier, visit visa holders could go to public hospitals and primary health centers in Kuwait for consultations, tests, and treatments. With the new policy, they no longer have that option and must use private healthcare facilities instead. Since private care is usually more expensive, visitors without insurance could face high medical bills.
What about emergencies?
Public hospitals might still handle emergency cases, but patients may be transferred to private hospitals for continued treatment. Full details on the scope of emergency care for visit visa holders are not yet clear.
What should visitors do now?
Purchase travel or health insurance that covers treatment in private hospitals before arriving in Kuwait.
Carry necessary medicines and prescriptions during the visit.
Be aware of the nearest private hospitals and clinics in the city of stay.
This step ensures visitors remain prepared for any medical needs during their stay in Kuwait.
(Rh/Eth/MSM)
