Child Support and Maintenance
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions.
Kuwaiti National Law
What is this right?
The father is legally responsible for financially supporting his children in Kuwait:
- The father must provide nafaqa (maintenance) covering food, housing, clothing, education, and medical care.
- Maintenance continues for sons until they are able to earn a living and for daughters until marriage.
- If the child has a disability or chronic illness, the father must pay maintenance indefinitely.
- The amount is set by the Family Court based on the father's income and the child's needs.
- A divorced wife who has custody is also entitled to a custody allowance for housing and expenses related to caring for the children.
When does it apply?
- You are a custodial parent and the father is not providing adequate financial support.
- You are a father and want to understand your maintenance obligations.
- You need to increase or decrease an existing maintenance order due to changed circumstances.
What should you do?
- File a maintenance claim at the Family Court — bring evidence of the child's needs and the father's income.
- If the father stops paying, file an enforcement request with the court — non-payment can lead to imprisonment.
- If circumstances change (income increase or new expenses), apply to the court to modify the amount.
- Keep receipts for child-related expenses — the court may request evidence of how maintenance is spent.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not accept informal payment arrangements — get a court order so you have enforcement power.
- Do not withhold visitation because maintenance is late — these are separate legal issues.
- Do not hide income or assets if you are the father — the court can investigate and impose penalties.
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