Personal documents issued in the United States must be authenticated and legalized before they can be officially recognized by authorities in the State of Kuwait. This process ensures that vital records, certificates, and letters issued in the U.S. are valid for purposes such as employment, family registration, education, or residency in Kuwait.

Overview of the Legalization Process

All personal documents must first be certified by the local Secretary of State before being authenticated by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. and then legalized by the Embassy of Kuwait.
This sequence verifies the signature and seal of the issuing authority, confirming that the document is genuine and eligible for recognition by Kuwaiti government entities.

The U.S. Arab Chamber of Commerce (USACC) facilitates this multi-step process efficiently, ensuring full compliance with Kuwait’s document legalization requirements.

Types of Personal Documents

The following personal documents commonly require legalization for use in Kuwait:

• Birth Certificates – Required for registering birth, nationality, or family status with Kuwaiti authorities.

• Marriage Certificates or Licenses – Needed for family visa, dependent sponsorship, or personal status documentation.

• Single Status and No Record of Marriage Certificates – Used to verify unmarried status for marriage registration in Kuwait.

• Divorce Certificates or Decrees – For updating marital records or resolving family matters abroad.

• Death Certificates – For estate or family record procedures in Kuwait.

• Educational Certificates, Diplomas, and Transcripts – Required for employment or professional licensing.

• Teacher Credentials – For verification prior to teaching positions in Kuwait.

• Medical Letters or Health Certificates – For verifying medical fitness before employment or residency.

• Affidavits and Personal Declarations – Used for legal or administrative confirmations.

• Power of Attorney (POA) – Authorizes representatives to act on behalf of an individual in Kuwait.

• Court Records and Criminal Records – Required for immigration, employment, or legal verification.

• Local Police Background Checks – Used for security clearance or residency applications.

• Social Security Administration Letters – For benefit or identity verification.

• Permission to Travel Documents – For minors or individuals traveling under guardianship.

• Copy of Passport or Driver’s License – Used for identity authentication purposes.