Kuwait, a prosperous Muslim nation, is on the verge of potentially being exempted from Schengen visa requirements, according to statements from Kuwaiti authorities.
Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya disclosed that negotiations with the European Union (EU) are progressing well, indicating optimism regarding a visa-free travel agreement.
Minister Al-Yahya underscored the significance of this development, particularly addressing the challenges Kuwaiti citizens face in navigating visa procedures when travelling to EU member states.
The proposed agreement aims to grant all Kuwaiti passport holders visa-free travel to the Schengen Area, promising mutual benefits by facilitating travel for Kuwaitis and boosting tourism for Schengen member states.
In a related development, Bulgaria is poised to accept Schengen visa applications for Kuwaiti nationals starting March 31, 2024, as confirmed by the Bulgarian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dimitar Dimitrov.
Under this arrangement, Kuwaiti visa applicants will obtain Schengen visas instead of Bulgarian national visas, permitting a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180 days within the Schengen bloc.
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Furthermore, holders of Bulgarian Schengen visas will have access to all other Schengen countries, providing a significant benefit to Kuwaiti nationals.
Ambassador Dimitrov urged Kuwaiti nationals to submit their visa applications at least 15 days before their travel date. However, the Schengen visa application process allows submissions up to six months before planned entry into the zone.
It’s worth noting that Kuwaiti passport holders have already experienced certain visa facilitations, as the EU Commission implemented favourable Schengen visa rules for Kuwaitis on September 8, 2023, according to Schengenvisainfo.
These regulations offer considerable flexibility, allowing Kuwaitis, regardless of their status, to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for five years, contingent upon passport validity.
