Kuwait has announced the closure of its grace period for undocumented migrants, effectively ending an amnesty program that allowed them to regularize their residency status. This decision comes after months of extensions aimed at encouraging a smooth and complete registration process.
The program, launched in April 2023, provided a window for undocumented migrants to come forward and rectify their immigration status without facing penalties. Authorities hoped the initiative would address the issue of residency violations, estimated to affect hundreds of thousands of people in Kuwait.
While the initial deadline for registration was set for July 2023, it was subsequently extended several times to allow more people to participate. The government cited logistical challenges and a high volume of applications as reasons for the extensions.
However, officials have now declared the program officially closed. Those who failed to register during the designated period will be subject to legal action, including fines and deportation. The exact date for enforcement has not been announced, but authorities have urged remaining undocumented migrants to depart Kuwait voluntarily to avoid penalties.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions. Proponents of stricter immigration controls view it as a necessary step to regulate the labor market and ensure national security. They argue that a large undocumented population puts a strain on public resources and creates unfair competition for Kuwaiti citizens in the job market.
Opponents, however, express concern for the well-being of undocumented migrants, many of whom are low-wage workers who contribute significantly to the Kuwaiti economy. They argue that sudden deportation could disrupt essential services and cause hardship for families with undocumented members.
Human rights groups have also voiced concerns about the potential for exploitation and abuse during the deportation process. They urge the Kuwaiti government to ensure a humane and transparent approach to enforcing immigration laws.
The closure of the amnesty program marks a significant development in Kuwait's ongoing efforts to manage its expatriate population. It remains to be seen how effectively the government can enforce immigration regulations while balancing economic needs and humanitarian considerations.