KUWAIT CITY : Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has taken steps to address high labour wages and shortages in the country. PAM has changed the rules so that employers can now hire workers from abroad as needed, rather than following a fixed quota. These changes, effective from June 1, 2024, aim to reduce labour costs and improve the business environment.
Here are the key points.
- Kuwait Updates Labour Permits:
- The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has revised work permit rules.
- Employers can now hire migrant workers from abroad based on their license, rather than fixed quotas.
- This change aims to address labour shortages and reduce high wages.
- The new rules take effect from June 1, 2024.
- Transfer Fees and Approval:
- If a migrant worker switches jobs within Kuwait and hasn’t been there for more than three years, they pay a KD 300 fee.
- Both the old and new employers must approve the transfer.
- A fee of KD 150 applies for issuing a work permit for the first time.
- Enforcing Labour Laws:
- PAM is ensuring compliance with labour laws and regulations.
- Employers must honor contracts and assign tasks specified in work permits.
- Penalties for non-compliance include fines and imprisonment.
- Job Opportunities for Citizens:
- PAM collaborated with the Ministry of Health to create 137 job openings in the private sector.
- These opportunities arose from government contracts.
- The initiative supports Kuwaiti citizens’ employment and job security.
