All foreign nationals seeking to work in Kuwait must first secure a job offer from a Kuwaiti employer, who acts as the visa sponsor. This employer initiates the process by applying to the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (or the relevant ministry for government jobs) for a Work Permit (No Objection Certificate or NOC). Once the NOC is issued, the employer sends it to the prospective employee along with the signed employment contract. This permit allows the applicant to begin the process outside Kuwait.