Kuwait has formally lifted its longstanding ban on hiring Pakistani workers.
The move is expected to create thousands of job opportunities for skilled laborers, technicians, and drivers from Pakistan. This comes as a result of successful bilateral talks held in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Kuwait resumes recruitment from pakistan
After nearly 15 years, Kuwait has reopened its job market to Pakistani workers—a move welcomed by both countries as a sign of strengthening ties and mutual benefit.
A high-level Kuwaiti delegation, led by Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs Ambassador Sameeh Essa Johar Al Dafiri, met with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad to finalize the decision.
Who will benefit from the new job drive?
The recruitment drive will primarily focus on skilled and semi-skilled Pakistani labor, including:
- Drivers
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Welders
- Technicians
- Healthcare and construction workers
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that Kuwaiti companies are expected to immediately begin the hiring process, noting a particular demand in transport and infrastructure development sectors.
Online visa process launched for transparency
To streamline the recruitment and eliminate middlemen exploitation, both countries agreed to implement a digital visa process.
“The Kuwaiti authorities have shown interest in ensuring a fully transparent, online hiring system that benefits Pakistani youth,” said Naqvi.
This is expected to reduce illegal practices and make the process safer and quicker for job seekers.
The decision aligns with Pakistan’s renewed focus on exporting skilled manpower to Gulf countries. In 2024 alone, Pakistan has sent over 500,000 workers abroad, with remittances crossing the $30 billion mark.
With this new opportunity in Kuwait, officials hope to boost remittance inflows and reduce unemployment at home.
Next steps for job seekers
Job seekers are advised to:
- Register with the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BEOE)
- Avoid agents demanding illegal commissions
- Monitor official updates on job categories and visa instructions
- The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis will soon publish a dedicated portal with job listings and eligibility criteria.
