Kuwait, looking to lure more foreign visitors after the fall of Saddam Hussein in neighbouring Iraq, has introduced tourist visas valid for three months, the immigration department said Saturday. The visa replaces what were known as family visas which were issued through relatives who are legal residents in Kuwait and were valid for one month.
Citizens of 34 countries from North America through Western Europe to Australia and New Zealand, will now be able to obtain tourist visas at the airport valid for three months, the department added.
For nationals of other countries, the visa can be obtained through national carrier Kuwait Airways, Kuwaiti diplomatic missions and hotels, and travel agents for tourist groups. Previously, all visitors had to obtain visas valid for one month from the immigration department through a sponsor in Kuwait before being allowed to board the plane. Most foreigners then visited the emirate either on business visas issued through companies in Kuwait or on the family visas.