Kuwait work visa scam uncovered, 3 arrested

Dubai: In its latest crackdown on human trafficking and visa fraud, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has dismantled a work visa scheme involving a Kuwaiti national who allegedly exploited his legal authority to profit from the illegal registration of expatriate workers.

The Kuwaiti citizen is accused of running visa-for-cash scheme through dozens of shell companies, according to Al Qabas Arabic daily.

The operation, uncovered in coordination with the General Department of Residence Affairs Investigations, revealed a complex network involving 25 companies and four affiliated businesses under the control of a single individual.  

The main suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was authorised to sign on behalf of these firms, a privilege he allegedly used to register foreign workers under false pretences and sell residency permits.

Officials said the scheme came to light following a tip-off. Investigators found that 56 workers had been registered under the companies, including several who had violated Kuwait’s residency laws and visa regulations. Among them were individuals who were either working for entities not listed as their sponsors or had overstayed or breached the terms of their permits.

When summoned for questioning, the accused admitted to accepting payments ranging from KD350 ($1,137) to KD1,200 in exchange for arranging visas and work permits.

He confessed to working through two intermediaries — a Syrian and an Indian — who helped facilitate the transactions, despite the workers not being employed by the companies sponsoring their residency.

 Authorities say the case highlights the persistent challenges posed by visa trafficking in the country and underscores ongoing efforts to tighten oversight of corporate licencing as well as residency and work permits.

The Ministry of Interior reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law and holding accountable those who exploit the labour system for personal gain.