Kuwait Sets June 30 Deadline for Worker Transfers from Restricted Sectors

Kuwait's Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has established June 30 as the final date for workers in restricted sectors to apply for transfers to other industries. This exceptional, temporary measure is designed to alleviate labor shortages stemming from regional circumstances and recruitment difficulties.

Applications must be submitted through the "As'hal" portal and require prior approval from the original employer. PAM stressed that the goal is to maintain legal protections for both employers and employees while ensuring business continuity in vital sectors. The authority will not consider complaints regarding a sponsor's refusal to approve a transfer, emphasizing the need to prevent arbitrary worker movement and maintain labor market stability.

The decision, implemented under Ministerial Decision No. 2/2026, specifically targets workers in the small and medium enterprises, industry, agriculture, livestock, and fishing sectors. Officials stated the policy aims to redistribute the existing workforce to support essential industries and prevent production disruptions.