Remote notarization enters a regulated phase in Kuwait under new conditions and controls
The official gazette, Al-Kuwait Al-Youm, published in its issue No. 1809 the Ministry of Justice’s Decision No. 590 of 2026, issuing the Executive Regulations for Law No. 10 of 2020 concerning notarization, as amended by Decree-Law No. 147 of 2025. The regulations introduce a new framework for conducting notarization and attestation services remotely via video conferencing and an automated electronic system.
The regulations permit the completion of notarization and attestation services remotely, provided that the concerned parties possess a protected electronic signature. However, three cases are exempted from this mechanism, most notably individuals aged 75 years or older.
The regulations specify a set of conditions that must be met by those licensed to practice as private notaries. Foremost among these is that the applicant must be a Kuwaiti national with full legal capacity, whether as a natural person, the manager of a professional company, or a partner therein.
It is also required that the natural person, the manager of the professional company, the partners, and the employees directly engaged in notarization work hold a degree in law or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education.
Furthermore, the regulations mandate that all individuals subject to these conditions must be of good conduct and reputable standing. No final conviction for a felony, a crime involving breach of honor or trust, or any offense against the Amiri family, terrorism, or state security may have been issued against any of them, unless their civil rights have been restored. Additionally, none of them may have previously been dismissed on disciplinary grounds.
The conditions also include successfully completing the prescribed training programs and examinations, with an exemption for those who have previously served as government notaries for a period of at least 10 years.
The regulations also require a minimum of 10 years of practical experience in legal affairs, as well as the availability of a suitable and appropriate premises for conducting notarization work.
Private notaries are required to maintain a valid insurance policy throughout the duration of their license, covering liability for professional errors. The policy must be issued by an insurance company licensed in the State of Kuwait, with an annual coverage amount of no less than 100,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
The Executive Regulations are issued to complete the legislative framework governing notarization services and to define the professional and procedural standards for their practice, including the use of electronic means to facilitate remote notarization and attestation transactions in accordance with the specified conditions.
