Changes to Kuwaiti Nationality Law
A draft decree, approved by the Kuwaiti Cabinet, aims to strengthen national identity and public order. The decree amends certain provisions of the 1959 Amiri Decree No. (15) regarding Kuwaiti nationality.
Key Changes:
1. Spousal Nationality: A foreigner who acquires Kuwaiti nationality does not automatically grant nationality to their spouse. However, their minor children will be considered Kuwaiti, with the option to retain their original nationality within one year after reaching the age of majority.
2. Nationality Revocation: Kuwaiti nationality may be revoked by decree in the following circumstances:
* Obtaining nationality through fraud, forgery, or false statements.
* Conviction of a crime related to honor, integrity, or state security.
* Dismissal from a government position for disciplinary reasons.
* Revocation is deemed necessary for the higher interests or external security of the state.
* Promotion of principles that undermine the country’s economic or social system.
3. Dependent Nationality**: Nationality may also be revoked from dependents in certain circumstances.
4. Naturalization: The naturalization of children of Kuwaiti women has been abolished, except in certain cases where the Minister of Interior may treat the minor children of a Kuwaiti mother as Kuwaiti nationals.
5. Cancellation of Applications: All nationality applications from individuals registered under the “1965 Census” have been canceled.
Consequences of Nationality Revocation
* Any individual whose Kuwaiti nationality is revoked will either have their previous nationality restored or be referred to the Central Agency for Illegal Residents.
Additional Clarifications
* Kuwaiti nationality may be revoked from naturalized citizens, but not from those who obtained Kuwaiti nationality under Article 1.
* The Minister of Interior has the authority to treat minor children of a Kuwaiti mother as Kuwaiti nationals in certain circumstances.
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