Kuwait’s Public Manpower Authority (PAM) announced Wednesday that it would amend rules for expats over 60 with only a higher secondary degree or lower. Now, PAM will allow these expats to transfer their residence to the private sector.

Previously, there had been a total ban on residency renewal.

Last year, PAM had allowed these expats to renew residence permits with a KWD250 annual fee and an insurance plan.

The new rules are effective from Wednesday, Kuwait Times reported, adding that the amendment will allow expats who work in government jobs and state-owned agencies and departments, those on dependent visas or investors or partners in commercial or industrial activity to transfer their residence permits to the private sector.

Expats that are aged over 60 with a self-sponsored residency will also be allowed to transfer residence to the private sector.

The amendment comes as Kuwait continues a long-term reform of its visa process. Last year, Kuwait began deliberations on long-term residency visas for expats and investors or up to 15-years.