How Many Types of Civil ID in Kuwait?

If you’re living in Kuwait, your Civil ID is more than just an identification card; it’s your key to almost every aspect of life here, from healthcare to banking. But did you know that not all Civil IDs are the same? Depending on your residency status, nationality, or even profession, there are different types of Civil IDs with unique features and validity periods.

Why Are There Different Types of Civil ID in Kuwait?

Kuwait’s Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) issues IDs that reflect your legal civil ID status, whether you’re a Kuwaiti citizen, a GCC national, an expat worker, or a dependent family member.

These distinctions help:

• Verify residency and employment status
• Determine the validity period of your card
• Ensure access to the right services (e.g., government benefits for citizens, visa-linked services for expats)

Type 1 – Civil ID for Kuwaiti Citizens

This is the standard national ID for all Kuwaitis.

Key Features:

• Usually valid for 10 years

• Shows “Kuwaiti” as nationality

• Displays full Arabic/English name and personal details

• Includes an advanced eID chip for online government services

• Color: Often blue or white, distinct from expat IDs

Who gets it?

• All Kuwaiti nationals (by birth or naturalization)

• Children of Kuwaiti citizens once registered in PACI’s system

Type 2 – Civil ID for Expatriate Residents

This type is for foreign residents living in Kuwait under various work or dependent visas.

Key Features:

• Validity ranges between 1 to 2 years, tied to the residency permit (Iqama)

• Displays sponsor’s name and residency type

• Shows passport number and employer details

• Color: Typically beige or yellowish

Who gets it?

• Professionals and laborers under work visas (Visa 18)

• Family visa holders and dependents under Visa 22

Type 3 – Civil ID for GCC Nationals

Nationals from other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries living in Kuwait receive a slightly different Civil ID.

Key Features:

• States “GCC National”

• Provides similar privileges as citizens for certain services

• May not require a local sponsor (varies by occupation)

• Validity: Up to 5 years

Who gets it?

• Saudis, Emiratis, Qataris, Omanis, and Bahrainis residing in Kuwait

Type 4 – Domestic Workers’ Civil ID

This ID is specifically for housemaids, drivers, nannies, and other domestic staff.

Key Features:

• Directly linked to the sponsor’s Civil ID

• Validity: 1 year, renewed annually with residency

• Shows occupation (e.g., “Domestic Worker”)

• Color: Often light beige or pale yellow

Who gets it?

• Anyone on a Visa 20 (domestic worker visa)

Type 5 – Dependent Civil ID (Family Members)

Children, spouses, or other dependents under a resident’s sponsorship receive this type.

Key Features:

• Displays sponsor’s name

• Validity: 1–2 years (same as sponsor’s residency)

• Cannot be used for employment

Who gets it?

• Children (Visa 22)

• Spouses and elderly parents under family visas

Type 6 – Temporary Civil ID or Paper Certificate

When the official card is not yet ready, PACI may issue a temporary Civil ID.

Key Features:

• Paper-based document with PACI stamp

• Valid for 30–90 days

• Functions as a legal substitute for the Civil ID during renewal or replacement

Who gets it?

• Residents waiting for a new ID

• People who lost their Civil ID and are awaiting a replacement

How Do You Know Which Type You Have?

• Check the card color: Citizens vs expats have clear color differences.
• Look for sponsor information: If listed, you’re likely on a work or family visa.
• Check validity period: Shorter validity = expat or domestic worker card.
• Use the Mobile ID (هويتي) app: It displays all your Civil ID details digitally.

Your Civil ID type defines your residency rights, renewal period, and sponsor information. Whether you’re a Kuwaiti national with a 10-year card or an expat renewing every year, understanding the differences can save you from legal and administrative issues.