Kuwait's Labour Law recognises two distinct categories: vocational apprentices (Article 12) and professionally trained workers (Article 15). A vocational apprentice is anyone aged 15 or over who enters a written contract with a company specifically to learn a trade over a defined period. This contract must be in writing, prepared in three copies — one for the apprentice, one for the employer, and one deposited with the Ministry within one week for certification (Article 13).
For workers undergoing vocational training (structured programmes to develop or upgrade skills), the employer is obligated to pay the worker their full wage throughout the entire training period, whether the training takes place inside or outside the company's premises (Article 17). This is an important protection — your employer cannot reduce your salary because you are attending a training course.
After completing an apprenticeship or training programme, Article 18 requires the worker to remain with the employer for a period equal to the training duration, up to a maximum of five years. If you leave before fulfilling this obligation, the employer has the right to reclaim a proportional share of the training costs. Always review this clause carefully in your contract before signing, especially if you are enrolled in a long company-sponsored training programme.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a lawyer licensed in Kuwait.