Kuwait has announced a major change to its healthcare policy: individuals entering the country on temporary or visit visas will no longer be allowed to use public hospitals, specialty centres, or government-run health clinics.

The decision, issued by Kuwait’s Health Minister Dr Ahmad Al Awadhi, aims to prioritize healthcare resources for Kuwaiti citizens and long-term residents who are already covered under the national health system.

Why This Policy Change Was Introduced

According to the Ministry of Health, the restriction is part of a “comprehensive health vision” that focuses on:

• Ensuring the financial sustainability of the national healthcare system
• Improving service quality for eligible residents
• Reducing overcrowding and wait times at hospitals
• Directing medical resources to those most in need

By limiting access for temporary visitors, the ministry hopes to strike a balance between operational efficiency and fair access.

Upcoming Healthcare Projects in Kuwait

This policy shift comes as Kuwait continues to invest heavily in healthcare infrastructure.

During a recent meeting with residents of the Ahmadi Governorate, Dr Al Awadhi discussed proposals to transform the Ahmadi health district into a full-fledged medical city. He also shared updates on the ongoing development of the Sabah Al Ahmad Medical City, a flagship project designed to expand advanced healthcare access in the country.

Other Recent Changes to Kuwait’s Visa System

The healthcare restriction is just one part of Kuwait’s recent reforms to its visa and residency system. Earlier this year, the country took several steps to make entry easier for tourists and families:

• Scrapped the minimum salary requirement for family visit visas
• Introduced four types of online tourist visas to allow easier applications for visitors

These measures aimed to encourage tourism and simplify access for short-term stays.

However, with the new restriction, Kuwait has clarified that while entry for visitors has become easier, public healthcare services remain strictly reserved for citizens and residents.

What This Means for Visitors to Kuwait

For Indians and other foreign nationals travelling to Kuwait on a visit visa, this means:

• No access to public medical services – including hospitals, government health centres, and clinics
• Visitors must rely on private healthcare facilities or arrange travel health insurance before entering the country
• The change reinforces the importance of carrying comprehensive medical coverage, especially for longer stays or family visits

Final Thoughts

Kuwait’s decision to bar visit visa holders from accessing public healthcare reflects the government’s effort to relieve pressure on hospitals, safeguard resources, and prioritize citizens and residents.

While the new rule may increase healthcare costs for short-term visitors, it also underscores Kuwait’s broader strategy: streamlining visa rules to encourage tourism and business, yet safeguarding long-term sustainability of essential public services.

For travellers, the takeaway is clear — if you’re heading to Kuwait on a visit or tourist visa, ensure you have valid health insurance and be prepared to use private medical services if required.