More than 42,000 lose Kuwaiti citizenship in six months

Dubai: More than 42,000 individuals have lost Kuwaiti citizenship over the past six months, as part of a wide-ranging administrative review conducted by the government to ensure compliance with national citizenship laws and legal residency regulations.

The move, overseen by a Supreme Committee chaired by the Ministry of Interior, aims to address cases involving irregular naturalization, dual nationality violations, and instances of citizenship obtained through fraud or inaccurate documentation.
Authorities have emphasised that the process is being carried out in full accordance with Kuwaiti law, and reflects the country’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its nationality system.

The revocations are based on provisions in Kuwaiti legislation that allow for the withdrawal of citizenship under specific circumstances, including forgery, dishonesty, or activities that may undermine national security.
Records
Government sources have noted that the review is a routine legal measure, consistent with Kuwait’s sovereign right to verify citizenship records and uphold administrative accuracy.

The sources stressed that each case is reviewed individually, and decisions are made based on detailed investigations and legal assessments. The goal, they said, is not to marginalise individuals, but to correct inconsistencies in the national registry and ensure fairness in the distribution of public services and benefits.

In line with Kuwait’s policies, dual nationality is not permitted, and individuals found to be holding another nationality while retaining Kuwaiti citizenship are subject to revocation in accordance with the law.

Authorities have also responded to concerns surrounding certain groups, such as women naturalized through marriage, assuring the public that social support entitlements — including pensions, healthcare, and education benefits — are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis in cooperation with the relevant agencies to prevent any unintended hardship.

The sources reiterated that the process is not a punitive campaign, but rather a systematic and lawful review of administrative records, aimed at strengthening transparency, reducing bureaucratic inconsistencies, and ensuring the sustainability of national welfare programs.