Over 70,000 expats aged 60 years will leave Kuwait next year as the decision to stop renewal of residency permits for migrant workers of this age, is being implemented.

Recently, Kuwait unveiled measures to minimize hiring foreign workers, in order to redress the demographic imbalance in the country.

The Public Authority of Manpower in Kuwait has compiled list of expats covered under the decision of banning renewal of residency permits for those turning 60, and those holding pre-university degrees. The decision will get effective from next January.

The officials have clarified that there is no going back, exemption or modifying of this decision, and that only expats with children who are working in Kuwait will be able to switch residency to families.

Furthermore, expats turning 58 and 59 will have their work permits renewed annually.

As per the latest media report, the deadline for migrants covered by the ban to leave Kuwait will be set by the General Department of Residency Affairs from one to three months’ time.

Recently, there has been a growing demand to curb foreign employment in Kuwait, amidst accusations that migrant workers have strained the infrastructure facilities in the country.