The decree-law amends Law No. 10 of 2020 on notarization to require that judges, government notaries and authorized marriage officials verify completion of the premarital program and record it before proceeding with any marriage documentation. The minister of justice will issue a separate decision outlining the program’s curriculum, duration, completion requirements and implementing body while executive regulations will specify exemptions. This requirement aims to ensure couples enter marriage with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities, according to the decree text reported Monday by Times Kuwait.
Government notaries or authorized marriage officials who authenticate a contract in violation of the premarital preparation rule face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to KD 1,000, or both penalties under the new provisions. The punishment stands without prejudice to any harsher sanctions that may apply under other laws. The Ministry of Justice had signaled in related announcements that such measures would strengthen family stability by preparing spouses for the practical and legal aspects of married life.
The decree-law further allows concerned parties or their representatives to complete documentation of personal status matters in person, through automated electronic systems or via approved video links and other remote means. It mandates documentation of marriages, separations, reconciliations and cases of prohibited breastfeeding relationships in line with the law and its regulations. Where documentation proves impossible for any reason, parties must refer the case to the judiciary to protect legal rights and lineage records.
Divorce and khula documentation cannot proceed until couples have first approached the competent Family Dispute Settlement Center and the legally required reconciliation period has expired without agreement, except in cases where reconciliation is not permissible or where a final judicial ruling applies. The decree establishes an electronic link between the Family Court registry and the Documentation Department so that court decisions are automatically recorded. These updates modernize procedures while maintaining focus on family cohesion, as Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait noted in statements on the preceding draft legislation.
The premarital program requirement extends voluntary initiatives the Ministry of Justice has long offered through its Family Counseling Department, including the Wefaq course that delivers instruction on spousal rights, conflict resolution and foundations for successful family life. Earlier ministry-led sessions have provided accredited certificates to participants ranging from engaged couples to university students seeking foundational knowledge. Al-Sumait previously described the mandatory training as a tool to raise awareness, reduce disputes and support long-term family stability.
Cabinet had approved the underlying amendments earlier in October before their issuance as an Amiri decree-law, which includes a six-month window following publication for completing regulatory and technical arrangements. The changes also address amendments to related civil code provisions intended to safeguard property rights within families. Overall the decree reflects ongoing efforts by Kuwaiti authorities to adapt personal status documentation to contemporary needs while reinforcing legal safeguards.
