All travelers must have documents and tickets for onward or return travel. Those requiring a visa may obtain one on arrival for a fee of up to 5 dinars, provided they hold sufficient funds to cover their intended stay. Visas may also be obtained prior to departure.
Americans: United States citizens require a passport. A visa is available on arrival for up to three months.
UK nationals: British citizens require a passport. A visa is available on arrival for up to three months.
Canadians: Canadians must have a valid passport. A visa is available on arrival
for up to three months.
Australians: Australians must have a passport. A visa is available on arrival for up to three months.
South Africans: South Africans must have a passport and visa. A visa can be obtained on arrival if coming for tourist purposes for up to one month, provided visitor has a sponsor in
Kuwait holding the original visa and a confirmation from the transporting airline that a visa is available on arrival.
Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport. A visa is available on arrival for up to three months.
New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport. A visa is available on arrival for up to three months.
Health
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.
