Kuwaiti law mandates that children under 21 require written consent from their father to travel abroad, regardless of their accompanying guardian. This rule, applicable to both Kuwaiti citizens and expatriate families, aims to prevent child abduction and custody disputes.
If the father is absent, unwilling, or deceased, mothers have the option to appeal to the Personal Status Court for a travel order. This regulation reinforces paternal guardianship and serves to maintain family integrity amidst legal separations.
Effective as of July 2025, all minors under 21 leaving Kuwait need explicit written approval from their father, even if accompanied by their mother. The Ministry of Interior enforces this mandate through the Airport Passports Department, highlighting Kuwait’s emphasis on paternal authority and safeguarding against unauthorized relocation.