Repatriation
Assistance for Sri Lankan nationals returning home from Kuwait
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kuwait provides comprehensive repatriation assistance to Sri Lankan nationals who need to return to Sri Lanka — whether due to contract completion, employment disputes, medical emergencies, or other circumstances. No Sri Lankan will be left stranded in Kuwait.
Who Is Eligible for Repatriation Assistance?
Workers whose contracts have ended and employers have not arranged return tickets
Workers who have escaped abusive or exploitative employers
Workers who have been abandoned by their employers
Domestic workers stranded after leaving employer households
Workers unable to afford return tickets due to withheld wages
Individuals with serious illness or injury requiring return home
Overstaying workers seeking voluntary return
Undocumented workers seeking regularization and return
Repatriation Process
Contact the Embassy
Visit or call the Embassy Labour Welfare Section to register your repatriation request. Bring your passport and any available documents.
Assessment & Documentation
A welfare officer will assess your situation, help gather necessary documents, and determine your eligibility for Embassy-assisted repatriation.
Exit Visa & Clearance
The Embassy will liaise with Kuwaiti immigration authorities to obtain exit clearance, including resolving any visa overstay penalties where applicable.
Travel Arrangements
Flight tickets are arranged in coordination with SriLankan Airlines or other carriers. The Embassy works with SLBFE to fund tickets where the worker cannot afford them.
Return to Sri Lanka
Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, the SLBFE meets returning workers at the airport and provides support for reintegration, including counselling and job assistance.
Repatriation of Mortal Remains
In the unfortunate event of the death of a Sri Lankan national in Kuwait, the Embassy provides complete support for the repatriation of mortal remains to Sri Lanka. We coordinate with Kuwaiti authorities, hospitals, funeral homes, and SriLankan Airlines cargo services to ensure a dignified and timely return.
Steps Involved
- Obtaining the Kuwait death certificate and its certified translation
- Registering the death at the Embassy
- Coordination with the deceased's employer for release of body and dues
- Obtaining a no-objection letter from Kuwait authorities for repatriation
- Embalming, casket preparation, and health authority clearance
- Arranging air cargo transportation of remains to Colombo
- Notifying and supporting the next of kin in Sri Lanka
Families of the deceased should contact the Embassy emergency hotline immediately. Costs for repatriation of remains are often covered by employer insurance or the SLBFE insurance scheme. The Embassy will assist in claiming these benefits.
Documents to Bring to the Embassy
- Original passport (or any available travel document)
- Employment contract or work permit copy (if available)
- Any correspondence with your employer regarding termination or disputes
- Kuwait residence (iqama) card or residency documents
- SLBFE registration card or pre-departure training certificate
- Any medical reports or police reports (if applicable)
- Contact information of next of kin in Sri Lanka
Repatriation Assistance Contact
Contact us immediately if you need repatriation assistance. Our emergency line operates around the clock for urgent cases.
Emergency (24/7)
+965 9876 5432
Office Hours
Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tel: +965 2251 2531
welfare@slembassykuwait.com