Compiled by Zeeshaan Ansari
In a decisive step to enhance the credibility of its labor market, Kuwait has introduced a new automated system designed to verify the academic qualifications of applicants seeking work permits. This move, announced by Marzouq Al Otaibi, the Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Manpower, follows the alarming discovery of numerous cases involving fake academic documents submitted by job seekers.
The newly implemented system aims to confirm the authenticity of educational credentials before any work permit is issued. It applies to all expatriates, including citizens from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and stateless individuals known as bidoon. Applicants are required to submit their information through the Ashal portal or the Sahel Business application, which will now include an automated screening of academic documents.
This verification process focuses on three major areas: the degree obtained, the field of specialization, and the accreditation status of the institution as per the standards set by Kuwait’s Ministry of Higher Education. By integrating these checks into the permit process, Kuwait is reinforcing its commitment to ensuring that only qualified individuals are granted entry into its labor force.
The decision to launch this system is rooted in recent incidents that exposed the vulnerability of existing procedures. Particularly troubling was the discovery of forged engineering degrees, which led Kuwait to temporarily suspend the accreditation of Indian engineering qualifications. These events prompted authorities to take urgent steps to prevent further misuse of the system.
The use of forged degrees not only undermines trust in academic institutions but also poses a serious threat to the quality of professional services within the country. Unqualified individuals occupying technical or specialized roles can have lasting negative impacts on public safety, infrastructure, and institutional integrity. Kuwait’s response through the use of digital automation represents a modern and effective approach to addressing such challenges.
This initiative also aligns with Kuwait’s broader vision of digital transformation in government services. By reducing human intervention and relying on verified data sources, the new system minimizes the risk of manipulation and delays, while offering a more transparent and accountable process for both employers and job seekers.
Employers are now encouraged to work closely with the new system, ensuring that all candidates meet the necessary academic requirements before contracts are finalized. This measure will also protect businesses from future liabilities caused by hiring individuals with fraudulent credentials.
The automated system is not just a tool for verification—it is a step forward in Kuwait’s journey toward a regulated, ethical, and skilled labor market. It sends a clear message that Kuwait values transparency and qualification, and that it is ready to take firm actions to safeguard the standards of its workforce.
As the new process becomes fully integrated, applicants must ensure that their educational qualifications are authentic, properly accredited, and submitted through official channels. This development marks a significant turning point in how Kuwait manages its labor inflow, setting a precedent for integrity and professionalism across the region.
