Kuwait's new digital system simplifies domestic worker sponsorships via 'Sahel' app

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has launched a new digital service for managing domestic worker and driver sponsorships. The system, available through the 'Sahel' app, aims to simplify applications and reduce processing times. It forms part of the country’s broader push to modernise government services online. The updated platform lets users complete sponsorship requests without visiting service centres. Single women can now sponsor one domestic worker, while married, divorced, or widowed women with children may sponsor one domestic worker and one driver. Single men, however, are limited to sponsoring one driver only.

Married, divorced, or widowed men with families have the broadest eligibility, allowing them to sponsor up to three domestic workers and one driver. The initiative follows coordination between the Ministry of Interior, the Public Authority for Manpower, and the ministry’s IT sector. Beyond convenience, the system seeks to better regulate domestic labour categories and ensure fair access to services. It also aligns with Kuwait’s wider digital transformation strategy, which aims to streamline government transactions and strengthen digital governance across public platforms.

The new service is now live on the 'Sahel' app, offering a faster and more transparent process for sponsorship applications. By cutting paperwork and in-person visits, the ministry expects improved efficiency in managing domestic worker and driver recruitment. The move reflects ongoing efforts to digitise government operations in Kuwait.