Family Visa Cancellation Guide in Kuwait

Canceling a family or dependent visa in Kuwait may sound overwhelming, but once you know the steps, it becomes a straightforward process. Whether you’re planning to leave the country permanently, your child has reached the age cap, or you’re shifting family sponsorships, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to cancel a family visa the right way.

Who Needs to Cancel a Family Visa in Kuwait?

Not everyone holding a family visa needs to cancel it. But in some cases, it’s mandatory:

• Leaving Kuwait permanently with dependents

• Divorce or separation, affecting dependent status

• Death of the sponsor or the dependent

• Children turning 21 years old (legal age cap)

• Switching sponsorships due to a job or marital status change

Types of Visas That Require Cancellation

Understanding the type of visa helps avoid mistakes:

• Article 22 Visa (Family/Dependent Visa) – Common for spouses and children.

• Article 20 Visa (Domestic Worker Visa) – Requires cancellation if leaving an employer.

• Sponsored Visit Visas – Short-term dependent visas needing manual closure if unused or expired.

When Should You Cancel the Visa?

Timing is important to avoid legal or financial trouble:

• Before leaving Kuwait for good

• At least 30–60 days before visa expiry

• Before transferring to another employer/sponsor

• Immediately after divorce, death, or job loss

If you cancel late, overstay fines or blacklisting risks may arise.

Required Documents for Family Visa Cancellation

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dependent’s original Civil ID

• Sponsor’s Civil ID and passport copy

• Dependent’s passport (original)

• Copy of residency visa (sticker or MOI printout)

• Visa cancellation form (provided by immigration)

• Letter from sponsor/employer (sometimes required)

• Power of attorney (if a sponsor is outside Kuwait)

Make photocopies of all documents. Some offices may keep them.

Step-by-Step Process to Cancel a Family Visa in Kuwait

Step 1: Visit the Immigration Department

• Go to the immigration office in your governorate (e.g., Hawally, Farwaniya, Jahra). Choose morning hours to avoid long queues.

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• Hand over all required originals and copies to the immigration officer. Ensure all forms are filled properly.

Step 3: Fill Out the Cancellation Form

• You can get this form at the office or through your sponsor. Fill it in Arabic or request translation assistance.

Step 4: Pay Any Pending Fees or Fines

Before cancellation, clear:

• Overstay fines (approx. KD 2/day)

• Unpaid traffic fines

• Other legal dues linked to the Civil ID

Step 5: Receive Cancellation Stamp/Letter

Once processed, you’ll receive:

• A cancellation stamp on the passport.

• A visa cancellation certificate (optional).
  The Civil ID becomes invalid, and the dependent must exit Kuwait within 30 days.

Visa Cancellation Fees and Penalties

Usually, there is no direct fee for visa cancellation. However, you may need to pay: