Probation Periods in Kuwait
What Article 32 allows: how long probation can last, who can end it, and what workers are owed if it ends early.
Under Article 32 of Kuwait Labor Law (Law No. 6 of 2010), a probation period must be written into the employment contract and cannot exceed 100 working days. If the contract says nothing about probation, there is none.
During probation, either side may end the contract without notice. If it is the employer who ends it, the worker is still owed end-of-service indemnity for the period actually served, calculated under the normal rules.
A worker cannot be put on probation more than once by the same employer — a new contract with the same company cannot restart the trial. Probation time is part of the employment, so it counts toward continuous service.
Key facts
- Maximum length100 working days
- Where it is setWritten in the employment contract
- Ending itEither party, no notice required
- If the employer ends itIndemnity due for the period served
- Repeat probationNot allowed with the same employer
Frequently asked questions
How long can a probation period be in Kuwait?
Up to 100 working days, and it must be stated in the employment contract. Working days exclude Fridays and holidays, so 100 working days is roughly four calendar months.
Can I be terminated during probation without notice?
Yes — either party may end the contract during probation without notice. If the employer ends it, the worker is owed end-of-service indemnity for the time served.
Can an employer set a second probation period?
No. A worker may not be placed under probation more than once with the same employer.
Does probation count toward years of service?
Yes. Probation is part of the employment, so it counts toward continuous service — including leave accrual and end-of-service indemnity.
This guide is general information based on Kuwait Labor Law No. 6 of 2010. It is not legal advice — for specific cases, consult the Public Authority of Manpower or a legal professional.
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