Kuwait has revoked the citizenship of 1,266 individuals as part of a strict enforcement of nationality laws.
Under the move, dependants of those affected will also face the consequences. The decision was implemented through decrees issued by the Emir of Kuwait, including orders numbered 60, 61, 62, 65, 66 and 67 of 2026.
These notices were published in the official gazette Kuwait Alyawm on 26 April 2026, with the orders issued around 25 April.
According to details, the largest number, 1,242 individuals and their families,were stripped of citizenship under Decree No. 60.
Under Decrees 61, 62, 66 and 67, one individual each (along with their dependants) was affected, while Decree No. 65 led to the cancellation of citizenship certificates of 20 individuals under Article 21 bis (A) of the Kuwaiti Nationality Law, relating to fraud.
Authorities stated that the revocations are part of an ongoing review of citizenship records. The primary reasons include obtaining nationality through fraudulent means, misrepresentation, or through individuals whose own citizenship has been revoked.
In a separate case, the citizenship of a former member of parliament was also cancelled, linked to the revocation of their father’s nationality.
The move is part of a broader policy by the Kuwaiti government to tighten nationality laws. Recent legislation, particularly under the 2026 decree framework, grants authorities wider powers to revoke citizenship in cases of fraud or irregularities.
Reports suggest that since 2024, thousands of individuals — including family members — have been affected by similar actions.
