What Type of Visa Should OFWs Have to Work in Kuwait
Filipino citizens who wish to visit a country like Kuwait need to apply and secure for a tourist or visit visa (Visa 14) before finalizing the intended trip. While overseas Filipino workers who are seeking employment in Kuwait for a contract service needs to obtain the right type of visa because there are various types, like:
- Visa 17 – This is required for OFWs who will be under the Ministry of the Government of Kuwait in the Public Sector. A requirement for this is an employment offer which should be accepted so they can obtain residence visa in Kuwait using a work visa.
- Visa 18 – This is the type of visa for OFWs who will be working for the Private Sector as professionals and for those to work in the service industry. These are jobs which require an OFW to practice their profession with the necessary license obtained in the Philippines and in Kuwait.
- Visa 20 – includes OFWs reporting for domestic jobs or domestic servant visa. POEA licensed agencies are the ones to process this type of visa because direct hiring is prohibited to gain entry.
To obtain a working visa for Kuwait, aspiring OFWs must submit necessary documents required like:
- Resume
- School credentials
- Medical certificates with clearance from physician
- NBI and police clearances
- Certificate from sponsor
Once all documents are at hand, these must be authenticated at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
How Filipinos can Authenticate Documents at DFA (Red Ribbon)
After all documents are authenticated, another authentication is needed in the Embassy of Kuwait in Manila. This process will take around two to six months, depending on the availability of the documents one has to secure.
In order for an OFW to speed up the processing time, they need to have all the documents ready once they decide to work overseas. Some countries may need more requirements so might as well be prepared and secure the documents as well. It is better to be over-prepared than under prepared. It will also work to OFWs advantage if you already have specific documents at hand. Keep in mind that any delay in the processing of the visa might lead to late submission and missed opportunity.