Solon advises Pinoys in Kuwait to avail of visa amnesty program
At A Glance
- Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo is strongly encouraging Filipinos in Kuwait to take advantage of the Kuwait Ministry of Interior's announcement of a visa amnesty program.
Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo (PPAB)
Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo is strongly encouraging Filipinos in Kuwait to take advantage of the Kuwait Ministry of Interior's announcement of a visa amnesty program.
"This amnesty initiative by the Kuwait Ministry of Interior is a commendable step towards resolving the issues faced by our ‘kababayans’ whose visas have already expired," Salo said in a statement Monday, March 25.
"It provides a path for individuals to regularize their residency status or safely return to their home countries,” added the chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.
Effective from March 17, 2024, to June 17, 2024, the program offers a lifeline to those with expired visas, providing them with the chance to rectify their status or depart the country without penalties.
Under the program, those with expired visas have the option to either legalize their residency by paying fines or exit Kuwait without penalties. Salo recognized the importance of this initiative.
"We are actively coordinating with the Department of Migrant Workers and OIC Secretary Hans Cacdac to assist Filipinos availing of this amnesty. Our priority is to ensure their well-being and provide necessary support during this process,” he said.
The veteran congressman also highlighted the significance of bilateral cooperation between Kuwait and the Philippines in addressing the concerns of migrant workers.
"I welcome this visa amnesty program and look forward to further collaboration and strengthening of ties between our countries," Salo stated.
Meanwhile, Salo announced plans to visit Kuwait after the Ramadan celebrations, particularly from April 20 to April 23, in response to inquiries from Filipinos in Kuwait regarding the deployment ban on OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) imposed by the Philippines.
"My visit aims to assess the living conditions of Filipinos, aid in the bilateral discussions between our nations and provide insights on lifting the ban," he explained.
He said the Kuwait Ministry of Interior's amnesty program offers a vital opportunity for OFWs with expired visas to regularize their status and avoid facing legal consequences.