Social Benefits of Kuwait Citizens and Residents

Did you know that Kuwait provides numerous social benefits to both its citizens and residents? These social benefits cover many aspects of life here in the Gulf, and so citizens and expats ought to know how these can directly or indirectly benefit them. Kuwait’s government heavily invests in its social welfare programs, and as a result, the country has one of the highest standards of living in the region.

These social benefits are not limited to Kuwaiti citizens only, as the country also offers many of the same benefits to its large expatriate population. In this way, Kuwait’s social welfare system promotes equity and inclusivity within its society, making it a desirable destination for both nationals and foreigners alike.

Social benefits refer to government-provided programs or services that aim to promote the well-being and quality of life of individuals and communities. These benefits typically include access to healthcare, education, housing, social services, and financial assistance.

The provision of social benefits is often seen as a way for governments to support vulnerable or disadvantaged populations, and to promote greater equality and social cohesion within society.

Social benefits are typically funded through taxes and other forms of government revenue, and are often seen as a key component of a modern welfare state.

You might be wondering whether expats in Kuwait also receive social benefits from the government. The answer is yes! Expats in Kuwait do benefit from many of the social benefits offered by the Kuwaiti government.

However, the specific benefits that are available to expats may differ from those available to Kuwaiti citizens, and there may be certain eligibility requirements or limitations for expats. For example, expats may be required to have a valid residency permit or work visa in order to access certain services, and may not be eligible for certain financial assistance programs.

That being said, Kuwait is known for having a relatively generous social welfare system compared to many other countries in the region, and as such, expats can often enjoy a high standard of living while living and working in Kuwait.

Key Benefits Offered by the Government

Kuwait provides a range of social benefits to its citizens and residents. Here is a guide to some of the most important social benefits available in Kuwait:

1. Applying for New Food Ration Cards for Kuwaiti Citizens

Kuwaiti citizens are entitled to receive food ration cards that provide them with subsidized food items. To apply for a new food ration card, citizens can visit the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition website or visit one of the designated distribution centers.

If the Kuwaiti citizen that an OFW is working for receives a new food ration card, they may choose to share the subsidized food items with their domestic workers as a form of additional compensation. In this way, the availability of new food ration cards for Kuwaiti citizens may indirectly benefit OFWs working in Kuwait.

It is important to note, however, that any arrangement regarding the sharing of subsidized food items should be agreed upon between the employer and domestic worker and does not reflect an official policy or benefit of the Kuwaiti government.

2. Receiving all the Petitions Submitted by Citizens to the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense

The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense receives petitions from citizens seeking various forms of assistance. Citizens can follow up on their petitions by visiting the ministry’s website or by contacting the customer service center.

The specific benefit of receiving all the petitions submitted by citizens to the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense may not directly apply to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait, as these petitions are primarily focused on issues that are specific to Kuwaiti citizens.

However, OFWs in Kuwait can indirectly benefit from this service, as it helps to promote good governance and ensure that the government is addressing the needs and concerns of its citizens.

If citizens’ petitions are effectively addressed, it can lead to improvements in various areas such as labor rights, wages, and working conditions, which can also positively impact OFWs.

3. Buying/Purchasing a Car for Minors

Kuwaiti citizens can buy or purchase cars for their children who are under the age of 18. To do so, they must submit a request to the Traffic Department along with the necessary documentation.

Some OFWs in Kuwait have children who are Kuwaiti citizens and may be eligible for this social benefit. As a parent, an OFW can help their child to purchase a car by providing financial support and guiding them through the process.

This can help their child to have a means of transportation and ease their daily commuting to school or other activities. Additionally, it can also alleviate the burden of transportation costs on the OFW’s family.

Furthermore, OFWs in Kuwait who have children that are Kuwaiti citizens may also be eligible for other social benefits that are available to citizens. For instance, they may be able to apply for food ration cards or access healthcare services through the Ministry of Health.

Therefore, while buying or purchasing a car for minors is not directly applicable to OFWs in Kuwait, their children who are Kuwaiti citizens may still benefit from this social benefit

4. Receiving (Social – Financial – Psychological) Services

Kuwaiti citizens and residents can access a range of social services provided by the government. These services include financial assistance, counseling, and support for those facing personal or social challenges.

Receiving social, financial, and psychological services can benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait in a variety of ways. These services can help OFWs to access support and assistance for issues such as mental health, financial management, and social isolation.

For example, if an OFW in Kuwait is experiencing depression or anxiety, they can seek counseling or therapy services through the Kuwaiti social services system. This can help them to cope with their mental health concerns and improve their overall well-being.

Financial services, such as access to financial planning or budgeting assistance, can also be helpful for OFWs in Kuwait. Many OFWs work in low-wage jobs and may struggle to manage their finances effectively. By receiving financial services, they can learn how to budget effectively and make the most of their earnings.

Psychological services, such as support groups or social activities, can help to address the social isolation that OFWs in Kuwait may experience. OFWs may be far from their families and communities of origin, and may struggle to make connections with others in Kuwait. By participating in social and support activities, they can build social connections and develop a sense of community.

It is important to note, however, that not all social, financial, and psychological services provided by Kuwait are available to OFWs. Some services may be restricted to Kuwaiti citizens or residents, and OFWs may face additional barriers in accessing these services.

Additionally, some OFWs may face cultural or language barriers in accessing these services. Nonetheless, for those OFWs who can access social, financial, and psychological services in Kuwait, these services can be a valuable source of support and assistance.

5. Age Estimation

Citizens and residents who do not have a birth certificate or other proof of age can have their age estimated by the Civil Information System Department. This service is particularly important for those seeking employment or other benefits that require proof of age.

Age estimation is a service provided by the Public Authority for Civil Information in Kuwait, which allows individuals to determine their age if their birth certificate is not available or they are uncertain about their age.

While this service is primarily aimed at Kuwaiti citizens and residents, it may also be useful for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait.

In many cases, OFWs come to Kuwait without proper documentation or with incomplete documentation, including birth certificates.

This can create difficulties when accessing social services or when attempting to establish their legal status in Kuwait.

Age estimation can help OFWs in these situations by providing a legal determination of their age that can be used to establish their identity and access social services.

For example, an OFW who is unsure of their age may have difficulty accessing education or healthcare services that are only available to individuals within a certain age range.

Age estimation can provide a legal determination of their age that can be used to establish their eligibility for these services. Similarly, OFWs who are attempting to establish their legal status in Kuwait may need to provide evidence of their age as part of the process.

Age estimation can provide this evidence and help to establish their legal status.

6. Repaying Shares for Unemployed Divorced Women

Divorced women who are unemployed and do not receive financial support from their ex-husband can apply for a repayment of shares from the Public Institution for Social Security.

This benefit allows these women to repay the shares they received from their ex-husbands during the marriage, so that they can be eligible to receive social security benefits. However, this benefit is only applicable to Kuwaiti citizens and not to foreign workers, including OFWs.

7. To Whom It May Concern Certificate on Not Receiving Pension or Share from the Public Institution for Social Security

Citizens and residents who are not receiving a pension or share from the Public Institution for Social Security can obtain a certificate to this effect. This certificate may be required for employment or other purposes.

The “To Whom It May Concern Certificate on Not Receiving Pension or Share from the Public Institution for Social Security” may also be beneficial for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait, particularly those who have worked for Kuwaiti companies or government agencies and have made contributions to the Kuwaiti social security system.

The certificate serves as proof that the OFW is not receiving any pension or share from the Public Institution for Social Security in Kuwait, which may be required by their employer or the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) when they return to the Philippines.

This certificate can also be used to show that the OFW is still eligible to receive social security benefits from the Philippine Social Security System (SSS).

In addition, the certificate can also be helpful for OFWs who are planning to work in other countries in the future.

Some countries require a proof of social security contributions and benefits received from previous employers or government agencies as part of their immigration or work permit application process.

The certificate can demonstrate that the OFW has not received any social security benefits from Kuwait, which can help them to avoid issues or complications in their future employment overseas.

8. Payment of Pension or Share in Advance

Those receiving a pension or share from the Public Institution for Social Security can request to receive their payments in advance. This may be useful for those facing unexpected expenses or financial challenges.

The Payment of Pension or Share in Advance benefit can also be available to OFWs in Kuwait who have been contributing to the Public Institution for Social Security.

If an OFW is eligible for a pension or share from the institution, they may be able to apply for an advance payment of their entitlements.

This can be beneficial to OFWs who are facing financial difficulties or have an urgent need for funds. For example, if an OFW is facing a medical emergency, they may be able to apply for an advance payment of their pension or share to cover the medical expenses.

Similarly, if an OFW is facing a financial crisis or unexpected expenses, they may be able to apply for an advance payment to help them cover their immediate needs.

However, it’s important to note that advance payments may reduce the overall amount of pension or share entitlements that the OFW receives in the future.

The advance payment will be deducted from the total amount of their entitlements, and they will receive the remaining balance over their lifetime.

9. Issuing Pension Certificates for Retired Persons

Retired citizens and residents can obtain a certificate confirming their retirement status. This certificate may be required for various purposes, such as applying for a loan or seeking employment.

The Issuing of Pension Certificates for Retired Persons by the Public Institution for Social Security can also benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have worked in Kuwait and are now retired.

If an OFW has been contributing to the social security system during their time in Kuwait, they may be eligible for a pension from the institution upon their retirement.

To receive the pension, the retired OFW would need to apply for a pension certificate from the Public Institution for Social Security.

This certificate serves as proof of their pension entitlement and can be used to apply for the actual pension payment.

The pension payment can be made through a designated bank account in Kuwait or through a bank account in the OFW’s home country, depending on the arrangement with the institution.

It’s important to note that the eligibility for the pension and the amount of the pension payment may vary depending on factors such as the length of time the OFW has contributed to the social security system and the number of contributions made.

However, the opportunity to receive a pension can provide financial support for retired OFWs and their families and can help to ensure a more stable retirement.

10. Entitled Person Details Certificate

Citizens and residents who are entitled to social security benefits can obtain a certificate confirming their entitlement.

While this certificate is typically issued to citizens and residents of Kuwait, it may also be beneficial to OFWs.

OFWs in Kuwait may be eligible for social security benefits from the Public Institution for Social Security if they are employed by a Kuwaiti employer and meet the institution’s eligibility criteria.

To determine their entitlements, OFWs can request an Entitled Person Details Certificate from the institution.

This certificate will provide information about their social security benefits, including their pension or share entitlements and any other social services they may be eligible for.

Additionally, some OFWs may be eligible for a social security agreement between their home country and Kuwait, which can provide them with additional social security benefits.

In this case, the Entitled Person Details Certificate can help to facilitate the application process for these benefits.

11. Applying for an Insured and Registered in the Public Institution for Social Security

Citizens and residents can apply to be insured and registered with the Public Institution for Social Security, which provides a range of social security benefits.

OFWs in Kuwait who are registered with the PISS are entitled to social security benefits, which include pension and disability benefits, as well as death grants for their families in case of their untimely demise.

By registering with the PISS, OFWs in Kuwait can ensure that they have access to these benefits, which can provide financial security and support for themselves and their families.

To apply for registration with the PISS, OFWs in Kuwait must first obtain a Civil ID card, which is issued by the Public Authority for Civil Information.

The Civil ID card serves as an identification document for residents of Kuwait and is required for all official transactions, including registration with the PISS.

Once the Civil ID card is obtained, OFWs in Kuwait can then submit an application for registration with the PISS. The application can be submitted online through the institution’s website or in person at one of its customer service centers.

Applicants must provide proof of employment and other necessary documentation, including a copy of their passport, residency permit, and Civil ID card.

12. Changing the Pension or Share Withdrawal Location

Those receiving a pension or share from the Public Institution for Social Security can request to change the location where they receive their payments.

Changing the Pension or Share Withdrawal Location can also benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait if they plan to return to the Philippines after retirement or have already returned.

By changing the location of their pension or share withdrawal, OFWs can receive their benefits in the Philippines instead of Kuwait. This can be beneficial for several reasons:

1. Convenience: OFWs who have returned to the Philippines may find it more convenient to receive their benefits in their home country rather than having to travel back to Kuwait to withdraw their pension or share.
2. Exchange rate: The exchange rate between the Kuwaiti Dinar and the Philippine Peso can fluctuate, and sometimes the Philippine Peso may be stronger than the Kuwaiti Dinar. By changing the location of their pension or share withdrawal, OFWs can potentially receive a higher value in their home currency.
3. Cost of living: The cost of living in Kuwait may be higher than in the Philippines. By receiving their benefits in the Philippines, OFWs can potentially use their pension or share to support themselves and their families at a lower cost.

13. Share Payment Suspension Due to Marriage or Employment or Death

The payment of shares from the Public Institution for Social Security may be suspended in certain cases, such as marriage or employment. In the case of death, shares may be paid to the deceased’s heirs.

14. Paying a Marriage Grant to a Person Entitled to a Share from a Deceased Relative

Those entitled to a share from a deceased relative may also be eligible for a marriage grant. To receive this grant, citizens and residents must submit a request to the Public Institution for Social Security.

15. Adding Previous Service Period for Which a Gratuity Was Received

Those who have previously received a gratuity for their service may be able to add that period to their current service record. This can increase their pension or share entitlements from the Public Institution for Social Security.

The option to add previous service periods for which a gratuity was received can also benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait.

Many OFWs work in Kuwait for several years before returning to the Philippines, and during this time, they may have received a gratuity payment from their employer upon termination of their employment contract.

If the OFW decides to return to Kuwait and work for a new employer, they can add their previous service period for which they received the gratuity payment to their current service record with the Public Institution for Social Security.

This can increase their entitlement to social security benefits, including pension and share entitlements, and can help to provide additional financial security for their retirement years.

16. Adding Service Period for an Unpaid Leave

Citizens and residents who have taken unpaid leave from their job can add that period to their service record with the Public Institution for Social Security. This can help to maintain their entitlement to social security benefits during the leave period.

The provision for adding service period for an unpaid leave can also benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait who are contributing to the Public Institution for Social Security.

If an OFW takes an unpaid leave from their job, they can add that period to their service record with the institution, which can help to maintain their entitlement to social security benefits during the leave period.

This is particularly important for OFWs who may have to take unpaid leave due to family or personal reasons. By adding the unpaid leave period to their service record, they can ensure that they do not lose their entitlement to social security benefits during that time.

This can provide them with some financial security and peace of mind, especially if they are the sole breadwinners of their families.

17. Death Grant

In the event of the death of a citizen or resident, their family may be eligible for a death grant from the Public Institution for Social Security. To receive this grant, the family must submit a request to the institution.

The Death Grant provided by the Public Institution for Social Security in Kuwait is intended to provide financial assistance to the families of citizens and residents who have passed away. While the Death Grant is primarily designed for citizens and residents, it is possible that it could also benefit OFWs in Kuwait.

If an OFW in Kuwait were to pass away, their family could potentially be eligible for the Death Grant if the OFW had been enrolled in the Public Institution for Social Security.

18. Complaints Service

The Public Institution for Social Security provides a complaints service for citizens and residents who have issues or concerns about their social security benefits. Complaints can be submitted through the institution’s website or customer service center.

The Complaints Service provided by the Public Institution for Social Security in Kuwait can also be beneficial for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait.

If an OFW has any issues or concerns regarding their social security benefits, they can submit a complaint to the institution through its website or customer service center.

The Complaints Service can help resolve any disputes or misunderstandings regarding the social security benefits that OFWs are entitled to receive.

Moreover, the Complaints Service can help OFWs in Kuwait to navigate the bureaucracy and regulations involved in obtaining social security benefits.

The institution can provide information and guidance to OFWs on the procedures and documentation required to access social security benefits.

This can be particularly useful for OFWs who may not be familiar with the Kuwaiti legal system or the processes involved in accessing social security benefits.

Additionally, the Complaints Service can help to ensure that OFWs receive their entitled social security benefits.

If an OFW’s social security benefits have been delayed or denied, they can submit a complaint to the institution and request an investigation into the matter.

The Complaints Service can help to resolve any issues related to social security benefits and ensure that OFWs receive the support they are entitled to.

19. Adding Newborn Babies into Their Father’s Files

Fathers can add their newborn babies to their social security records by submitting the necessary documentation to the Public Institution for Social Security. This can help to ensure that the baby is eligible for social security benefits in the future.

Adding newborn babies to their father’s social security files can also benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait. If an OFW father has a social security record in Kuwait and adds his newborn baby to the record, the baby may be eligible for social security benefits in the future.

This can be particularly useful if the OFW decides to bring their family to Kuwait or if the family decides to relocate to Kuwait in the future. Additionally, if the OFW is unable to work due to illness or injury, their family may be eligible for social security benefits based on the OFW’s record.

Therefore, adding newborn babies to the father’s social security record can help ensure that the family has access to social security benefits in Kuwait.

20. Applying for Issuing Food Ration Cards for GCC Citizens

GCC citizens who reside in Kuwait can apply for food ration cards that provide subsidized food items. Applications can be made through the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition website or at designated distribution centers.

21. Applying for Issuing a New Food Ration Card for the Kuwaiti Women Married to Non-Kuwaiti Citizens

Kuwaiti women who are married to non-Kuwaiti citizens can apply for a new food ration card that is linked to their husband’s civil ID. Applications can be made through the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition website or at designated distribution centers.

22. Applying for Issuing a Food Ration Card for the Divorced Kuwaiti Woman (if She Has Custody of Her Children)

Divorced Kuwaiti women who have custody of their children can apply for a food ration card that provides subsidized food items. Applications can be made through the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition website or at designated distribution centers.

23. Applying for Issuing Food Ration Cards for Diplomats of GCC Countries

Diplomats of GCC countries who reside in Kuwait can apply for food ration cards that provide subsidized food items. Applications can be made through the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition website or at designated distribution centers.

Kuwait provides a range of social benefits to its citizens and residents, including access to healthcare, education, housing, and social services. To access these benefits, citizens and residents must submit the necessary documentation and follow the required procedures.

Final Thoughts

Kuwait’s social benefits program is an essential aspect of the country’s efforts to provide a high quality of life for its citizens and residents. By providing these services, Kuwait’s government promotes equity and inclusivity, which benefits everyone who calls the country home.

Additionally, the availability of social benefits to expatriates underscores the country’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive society. In this way, even OFWs who are not eligible for Kuwaiti citizenship or residency can still enjoy the benefits of living in the country.

If you would like to learn more about these benefits, visit the Kuwaiti government’s website here.

READ NEXT: Where are the Best Places to Live as an Expat in Kuwait?