Filipino Workers in Kuwait: Rights Guide
The Filipino community in Kuwait has some of the strongest protections of any nationality in the Gulf, thanks to the 2018 bilateral labour agreement between the Philippines and Kuwait. This agreement was a direct response to worker welfare concerns and established specific safeguards. Here is what you need to know.
The 2018 Bilateral Agreement
The Philippines-Kuwait bilateral labour agreement (May 2018) established landmark protections: employers cannot confiscate worker passports, domestic workers must be allowed to keep their mobile phones, workers cannot be transferred to another employer without their consent, a joint committee monitors compliance, and shelters must be available for distressed workers.
These protections are in addition to Kuwait Labour Law and the DMW Standard Employment Contract. POLO Kuwait actively monitors compliance with the bilateral agreement.
POLO and Embassy Support
POLO Kuwait: +965-2256-3844 — complaints, verification, mediation
Philippine Embassy Kuwait: +965-2253-9694 — consular services
Bahay Kalinga: Emergency shelter for distressed Filipino workers in Kuwait
OWWA: Insurance, repatriation, legal aid, education scholarships for dependents
Domestic Worker Protections
Filipino domestic workers (kasambahay) in Kuwait are covered by both the bilateral agreement and Kuwait Law No. 68 of 2015. Key protections include: minimum salary of USD 400/month, maximum 12 working hours per day with breaks, mandatory weekly rest day, 30 days annual leave per year, employer must provide food and accommodation, and the right to keep your passport and phone at all times.
If you are in danger: Contact POLO Kuwait immediately at +965-2256-3844 or go to the Philippine Embassy. Bahay Kalinga provides emergency shelter, food, and legal assistance. You do not need to stay with an abusive employer — the bilateral agreement specifically protects your right to leave.
Key Kuwait Benefits
All Kuwait Labour Law benefits apply to non-domestic Filipino workers: 30 working days annual leave, indemnity based on total salary, employer-paid home ticket, overtime premiums (125% day, 150% night, 200% Friday), and the right to transfer employers after 3 years without consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What protections do OFWs have?
Kuwait Labour Law, 2018 bilateral agreement, DMW SEC, POLO/Embassy support, OWWA, and Bahay Kalinga shelter.
How can POLO help?
Complaints, verification, mediation, shelter, OWWA coordination, MSAL referrals. Call +965-2256-3844.
What about the 2018 agreement?
Passport + phone retention, no forced transfer, shelter access, joint monitoring committee, and enhanced protections for domestic workers.
What are domestic worker minimums?
USD 400/month, max 12 hours/day, weekly rest day, 30 days leave, food and housing provided.
Verify Your Kuwait Contract
Upload your contract and TenderScan will check it against DMW standards, Kuwait law, and the bilateral agreement.
Check Your Contract