Kuwait's new digital system transforms domestic worker sponsorship rules

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has launched a new digital service for managing domestic worker and driver sponsorships. The system, available through the Sahel app, aims to simplify residency procedures and reduce paperwork for residents. The updated rules set clear limits on how many domestic workers and drivers each group can sponsor. Married, divorced, or widowed men with families can now sponsor up to three domestic workers and one driver. Married, divorced, or widowed women with children are allowed one domestic worker and one driver. Single women can sponsor one domestic worker, while single men can only sponsor one driver.

The online platform lets users submit and track applications without visiting service centres. This change is part of Kuwait’s broader push for digital transformation, making government services faster and more accessible. Officials also hope the system will improve regulation of domestic labour and prevent misuse of sponsorship privileges. Beyond efficiency, the initiative supports wider efforts to strengthen digital governance across government platforms. The *Sahel* app now handles residency-related services in a more streamlined way, cutting down on processing delays.

The new service reduces the need for in-person visits and speeds up approvals. Residents can now manage sponsorships directly through their phones. The ministry expects the system to improve transparency and compliance with labour regulations.