World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Kuwait deports 20 Sri Lankans for visa violations
Twenty Sri Lankan nationals have been deported from Kuwait after being arrested for residing in the country without valid travel documentation. The group arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake today following their detention by Kuwaiti security authorities.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Sri Lankan nationals were remanded in custody by Kuwaiti authorities after being apprehended for illegal residence in the Gulf state. The individuals had travelled to Kuwait seeking employment in various sectors, including domestic work, but had subsequently violated their visa conditions or failed to maintain valid travel permits.
Following their arrest and processing by Kuwaiti security forces, the group was deported and repatriated to Sri Lanka. They were received at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, where immigration authorities completed their processing upon arrival.
The deportation reflects continued enforcement action by Kuwaiti authorities against migrant workers found to be in breach of visa regulations. Sri Lankan nationals represent a significant portion of the migrant workforce in Kuwait, often employed in domestic service, construction, and hospitality sectors.
The incident underscores the risks faced by workers who breach employment visa conditions or overstay in Gulf countries, where immigration violations carry serious legal consequences including detention, fines, and deportation. Sri Lankan workers are advised to maintain valid documentation and comply with local visa requirements during their employment abroad.