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KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has clarified its recent revisions to the overseas worker recruitment process. Aseel Al-Mazyed, PAM’s Director of Public Relations and Media, confirmed that the changes apply solely to private sector employees and do not encompass domestic workers.

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A key change focuses on the recruitment of overseas workers. The new regulations introduce a streamlined process, making it easier for private companies to hire foreign employees. This reform should benefit businesses seeking skilled or specialized labor from abroad.

Another significant change concerns employee transfers within the private sector. Previously, employees could only transfer to a new employer with their original sponsor’s approval. Now, after three years of service, they can transfer freely. Alternatively, they can choose to transfer after just one year, but with the sponsor’s consent and by paying a transfer fee. This new policy offers greater mobility and career choices for private sector workers.

The reforms also mark a shift away from the activity-based recruitment system previously employed by PAM. This older system categorized jobs based on specific economic sectors. The new approach offers more flexibility and is expected to better align with the evolving needs of the private sector.

It’s important to note that these changes will be implemented as a one-year trial period beginning June 1, 2024. PAM will evaluate the effectiveness of these reforms and may make adjustments based on their findings.

Finally, the announcement emphasizes the increasing focus on digital solutions. Businesses can now submit work permit applications for overseas hires electronically, streamlining the process further. Additionally, PAM is working on integrating all its services into the user-friendly “Sahel” mobile application, offering greater convenience and accessibility for both employers and employees. Ms. Al-Mazyed clarified that domestic worker recruitment remains subject to separate regulations, reported Arab Times.