Kuwait Limits Public Sector Office Attendance

Kuwait has implemented a 30% cap on on-site public sector workers effective March 2, 2026. The Civil Service Commission mandated this shift to ensure government continuity and employee safety amid rising regional tensions.

Government agencies are now operating under a hybrid model. Each department determines its own staffing needs through weekly rotations, continuous remote assignments, or flexible scheduling. While evening shifts are suspended, fingerprint attendance tracking remains in place for those required to be physically present.

Who is affected

This policy specifically targets Kuwaiti public sector employees rather than the private sector. However, digital nomads and expats should prepare for indirect ripples. Reduced staffing at government offices often leads to processing delays for visas, residency renewals, and civil ID updates.

If you are a remote worker or international resident currently in Kuwait, expect longer wait times for any paperwork that requires manual government approval. Tourists and short-term travelers are unlikely to see a direct impact on their daily routines, though general awareness of the regional climate is advised.

What to do

If you have pending immigration or administrative tasks, take action immediately to avoid being caught in a backlog.

• Submit residency renewals and visa applications as early as possible.
• Use digital government portals like "Sahel" for any services that don't require an in-person visit.
• Monitor nomad news for any further updates regarding regional safety or travel restrictions.
• Confirm office hours before visiting any ministry, as individual agencies may adjust their public-facing windows based on their new 30% staffing levels.

There are no new fees associated with these changes, and cybersecurity standards for remote work remain strictly enforced.

Read our full Kuwait guide for the complete picture.