I’ve seen many negative comments regarding the Exit Permit process. But in my view, it is a good thing. There are multiple options available to obtain Exit Permit approval.

Employees can apply for their Exit Permit directly through the Sahel app. For sponsors or companies, there are two main methods to approve Exit Permits:

Ashal Portal – Allows submission and approval of Exit Permits for employees (operating with user ID & password).

Sahel Business App – Allows submission and approval of Exit Permits for employees.

These tools are designed to make the process easier and ensure a smooth relationship between employer and employee.

If none of these options are available, it’s important to remember that under Kuwaiti law, the original passport should be with the employee. Now imagine a situation where an employee, especially one handling cash or sensitive responsibilities, runs away — the sponsor could face major issues with no control over the situation.

That’s why the Exit Permit system is actually a safeguard for both parties, promoting fairness and legal protection.

In urgent situations, like a family emergency or a pressing medical issue, is there any way for an expatriate in Kuwait to quickly get around the usual employer-approved exit permit process for nighttime travel, given the critical nature of the circumstances?

In cases of emergency — such as a sudden family crisis or critical medical need — if an expatriate urgently needs to travel at night from Kuwait, are there any provisions to expedite or bypass the standard employer-approved exit permit process, especially considering the humanitarian situation?