Kuwait — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
All foreign passengers to Kuwait must hold return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Most foreign nationals can obtain a three-month tourist visa on arrival, for a maximum fee of KWD 5. Visas may also be obtained prior to departure from one's country of origin. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Americans
US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
UK Nationals
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
Canadians
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
Australians
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
South Africans
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival, and require a visa, to enter Kuwait. A visa can be obtained on arrival, provided (i) travelers are holding confirmation from the transporting airline that their visa is available on arrival, (ii) that they are entering Kuwait for tourist purposes, and for up to one month only, and (iii) that they have a sponsor in Kuwait who is in possession of the original visa.
Irish Nationals
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Kuwait. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
Healthcare
No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Kuwait, but inoculation against typhoid is advisable for travelers eating outside of major hotels and restaurants. There is a risk of diarrhoeal diseases, which are common in the country. Mains water is chlorinated and considered relatively safe, but most visitors stick to bottled water. Avian influenza outbreaks have been reported, but there have been no human infections; the risk of travelers contracting the disease is slight, but contact with live birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked as a precaution. Medical fees are high and medical insurance is recommended.
Safety
Authorities are of the opinion that there is a high general threat of terrorism against western targets in Kuwait and other countries in the region. Visitors should remain vigilant, especially in public places and where westerners gather. The country is regarded as trouble-free as far as crime is concerned, but there is political turmoil resulting from developments in Iraq and the Middle East peace process and visitors should avoid public gatherings and demonstrations. When traveling outside Kuwait City keep to tarmac roads and take care on beaches and picnic spots because landmines and other unexploded ordnance still litters the countryside. Driving in Kuwait is hazardous, local drivers being negligent and reckless, so constant vigilance is essential.
