Welder

As per the Public Authority for Manpower, the minimum salary for issuing a work permit for welders is KWD 320 per month as of January 2026. This applies to expatriate workers in the private sector under the approved occupational wage list. Salaries below this threshold will not be approved for visa processing.

International welders need a job offer from a PAM-registered employer, followed by a work permit application via the PAM portal, requiring a salary of at least KWD 320 monthly. After PAM approval, apply for residency visa at Ministry of Interior within 60 days, including medical fitness test and police clearance. Processing takes 5-7 working days for PAM permit as of 2026.

Welders must have at least a high school diploma or vocational training certificate in welding, plus 3 years of verifiable experience in MIG/TIG/arc welding. Kuwaiti nationals require no experience, but expatriates need attested experience letters from previous employers. This is mandated under PAM occupational classification effective 2026.

Required documents include passport copy valid for 6+ months, 4 passport photos, attested welding certificates, experience letters, CV, and medical fitness certificate from approved clinic costing KWD 25. Employer submits via PAM e-services portal; applicants upload scans within 48 hours of job offer. Approval grants 3-month entry visa as of 2026.