The Italian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E Carlo Balducci, has revealed that since September 8, when the EU Commission implemented more favorable Schengen visa regulations for Kuwaiti citizens, the embassy has issued over 1,000 multiple-entry visas with a five-year validity period. Following the introduction of these improved rules, Ambassador Balducci anticipates a significant increase in the number of visas issued by the end of the year compared to 2022. Under the new regulations, the processing time for Kuwaiti applicants has significantly decreased, with decisions on their visa applications now available within 48 hours. Importantly, the visa fees have remained unchanged, and the new visa "cascade" system for Kuwaiti nationals aims to streamline the application process.
In September, when the specific rules for issuing multiple-entry visas to Kuwaiti citizens were adopted, the Delegation of the EU to the State of Kuwait explained that these changes would allow for the issuance of visas with a five-year validity to all eligible applicants, including first-time travelers. The decision to implement more favorable visa rules for Kuwaiti nationals reflects the EU's recognition of Kuwait as an important partner. Part of the EU's strategy involves facilitating people-to-people interactions, and these visa changes contribute to strengthening relations between Kuwaitis and Europeans. Furthermore, the Delegation of the EU to the State of Kuwait highlighted that all Schengen Member States would apply these more favorable visa rules to Kuwaiti citizens in alignment with the adoption of these regulations.
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