Public Authority for Manpower Highlights Salary Deduction Rules

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, November 1, 2026

Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower has reaffirmed that employers cannot reduce agreed wages during employment and may only deduct up to 10 percent of salary for employer debts and 25 percent for other debts, with priority given to alimony payments. These rules, based on Kuwait’s Labor Law, seek to protect workers’ earnings and ensure transparent, fair handling of salary deductions.

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has reiterated regulations governing salary deductions for employees, emphasizing that wages stipulated in employment contracts must remain unchanged throughout the contract’s duration. This guidance, outlined in a recently released awareness publication titled “Clarity of Rights Ensures a Stable Employment Relationship,” aligns with Article 28 of Kuwait’s Labor Law.

According to PAM, employers are prohibited from reducing the agreed-upon wage during the term of the employment contract. When it comes to wage deductions, the authority clarified that employers may only deduct up to 10 percent of a worker’s salary to recover debts or loans the employee owes to the employer. The imposition of interest on such recoveries is banned under Article 59(a) of the Labor Law.

PAM further highlighted that any deductions to offset other debts must not surpass 25 percent of the total wage. This cap applies in addition to the 10 percent limit on deductions for amounts owed directly to the employer, ensuring that the combined reductions do not exceed these thresholds.

In situations where multiple debts exist, the law prioritizes alimony payments—including spousal and child support—over other financial obligations, consistent with provisions under Article 59(b).

These clarifications aim to reinforce protections for workers and establish clear boundaries for employers in handling wage deductions, promoting a stable and fair employment environment in Kuwait.

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