In an effort to enhance oversight and combat the use of fake academic certificates, Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower has introduced an automated verification system for academic qualifications. The system applies to expatriates, GCC nationals, and bidoon (stateless individuals) seeking work permits via the Ashal portal or Sahel Business app.
This initiative follows the discovery of forged academic documents submitted by applicants and is designed to preserve the credibility and integrity of Kuwait’s labor market.
As outlined in a circular by Marzouq Al Otaibi, Acting Director General of the Authority, the system will verify the authenticity of academic qualifications before issuing any work permit. The process will focus on:
The academic degree obtained
The applicant’s field of specialization
The accreditation status of the qualification, in line with Ministry of Higher Education standards
This step is part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to regulate its workforce and ensure that only properly qualified individuals are granted employment opportunities.