KGOSI Contributions (Social Security) in Kuwait
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Social security in Kuwait is managed by the Kuwait General Organization for Social Insurance (KGOSI), also known as PIFSS (Public Institution for Social Security) — and it covers Kuwaiti nationals only:
- Employer contribution: 11.5% of the employee's monthly salary (basic + supplementary allowances).
- Employee contribution: 8% of monthly salary — deducted automatically from pay.
- The government adds a further supplementary contribution, bringing the total combined rate above 26%.
- These contributions fund retirement pensions, disability benefits, survivor benefits, and end-of-service lump sums.
- Expatriates are completely excluded from KGOSI — they receive only end-of-service indemnity under the Labour Law (no pension, no disability coverage).
- Self-employed Kuwaitis can voluntarily enrol in KGOSI and contribute at their own expense.
When does it apply?
- You are a Kuwaiti citizen employed in either the public or private sector.
- You are a Kuwaiti employer — you must deduct employee contributions and add your own 11.5% share.
- You are a self-employed Kuwaiti who wants pension coverage — voluntary enrolment is available.
What to Do If Your Employer Is Not Paying KGOSI Contributions in Kuwait
- Check your pay slip every month to confirm the 8% KGOSI deduction is being applied correctly.
- Register with KGOSI/PIFSS if you are self-employed and want pension and disability coverage.
- Keep records of your contribution history — you will need them when applying for your pension at retirement.
- If your employer is not making contributions on your behalf, report them to KGOSI — failure to contribute is a criminal offence.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not assume your employer is contributing — verify on your pay slip and through the KGOSI/PIFSS online portal.
- Do not withdraw early unless absolutely necessary — early withdrawal significantly reduces your future pension entitlement.
- Do not ignore KGOSI statements — errors in contribution records are easier to fix when caught early.
Common Questions
When does it apply — kgosi contributions (social security)?
You are a Kuwaiti citizen employed in either the public or private sector.You are a Kuwaiti employer — you must deduct employee contributions and add your own 11.5% share.You are a self-employed Kuwaiti who wants pension coverage — voluntary enrolment is available.
What should I do if I discover my employer has not been making my KGOSI social security contributions in Kuwait?
Check your pay slip every month to confirm the 8% KGOSI deduction is being applied correctly.Register with KGOSI/PIFSS if you are self-employed and want pension and disability coverage.Keep records of your contribution history — you will need them when applying for your pension at retirement.If your employer is not making contributions on your behalf, report them to KGOSI — failure to contribute is a criminal offence.
What should you NOT do — kgosi contributions (social security)?
Do not assume your employer is contributing — verify on your pay slip and through the KGOSI/PIFSS online portal.Do not withdraw early unless absolutely necessary — early withdrawal significantly reduces your future pension entitlement.Do not ignore KGOSI statements — errors in contribution records are easier to fix when caught early.