DMW to assist OFWs in availing of Kuwait amnesty program

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Tuesday said it would assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait who want to avail of the Kuwaiti government's amnesty program for overstaying foreign workers.

According to the agency, its office in Kuwait issued an advisory informing OFWs of the process and steps that they need to follow to avail of amnesty.

Under the program, overstaying foreigners may leave Kuwait without having to pay immigration fines. However, the DMW said that those with pending travel bans or criminal complaints or cases may only depart once these are resolved.

Overstaying foreigners who depart during the amnesty period may also return after complying with the requirements.

Meanwhile, overstaying foreigners and their families who wish to continue their residency may adjust their status after paying their overstaying fines and complying with other requirements.

The DMW issued the advisory after the Kuwaiti government announced a three-month amnesty period, from March 17 to June 17, for those whose stay is no longer valid.

According to the DMW, those who refuse to depart will be subject to arrest and permanent deportation once the grace period ends.

The DMW said overstaying Filipinos without a valid passport who wish to regularize their stay will need to apply for a new passport at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait City during the amnesty period.

The agency said Kuwait-based OFWs may call 6040-3858, 6558-5355, or 9403-9063, or send an email to mwo_kuwait@dmw.gov.ph for further details or assistance. — VDV, GMA Integrated News