How to Renew Kuwait Civil?

The Kuwait Civil ID card has a 10-year expiration, so it’s important to renew it when it nears expiry or has already expired. Discover further details about the Kuwait Civil ID renewal process by continuing to read. Your Civil ID is not just a piece of card; it represents your identity and enables you to navigate daily life in Kuwait. Keeping it current is not only a legal obligation but also a practical necessity. We understand that the renewal process can seem daunting at first, but fear not.

Kuwait Civil ID Renewal Process

The process for renewing a Kuwait Civil ID (Civil Identity Card) typically involves a few steps, and you will need certain documents to complete the renewal. Please note that the specific requirements and procedures may change over time, so it’s important to verify the most up-to-date information with the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) or the relevant government authorities in Kuwait. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the renewal process with ease.

Step 1: Visit the PACI Website

  • Access the official Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) website https://e.gov.kw/, which is the primary platform for initiating the renewal process.

Step 2: Create or Log into Your PACI Account

  • If you haven’t already done so, create an account on the PACI website. This account will be used for various transactions, including ID renewal.

  • Log in to your PACI account using your registered username and password.

Step 3: Fill Out the Renewal Application

  • Within your PACI account, navigate to the section dedicated to Civil ID renewal. Follow the online instructions to get started.

Step 4: Submit Required Information

  • Provide the requested personal information as prompted by the online renewal form.
  • Upload your old Civil ID copy, passport-sized photograph, and any other necessary documents.

Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee Online

  • Complete the Civil ID payment process for the renewal fee using the payment options available on the PACI website. Fee amounts can vary based on factors such as the validity period and other considerations.

Step 6: Schedule Your Appointment with PACI

  • After successfully submitting your renewal application, you’ll be able to schedule an appointment with the PACI for the final steps of the renewal process. This appointment is typically for in-person procedures.

Step 7: Attend Your PACI Appointment (Biometrics + Photo)

  • On the appointed date and time, visit the PACI office in person to complete the final steps of the renewal process. This may include providing biometric data such as fingerprints and a new photograph.

    Step 8: Verify Your New Civil ID Details

    • Before leaving the PACI office, take a moment to review the information on your new Civil ID to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

    Step 9: Keep Your Receipt for Reference

    • Retain the receipt of your renewal transaction as proof, which may be required for future reference.

    PACI Kuwait Civil ID Renewal

    Offline Civil ID Renewal (Walk in Process)

    Visit the Nearest PACI Office

    • Go to PACI South Surra HQ or other designated service branches

    • Operating hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

    Take a Token and Wait for Your Turn

    • Choose the “Renewal” service category

    • Wait for your number to be called

    Submit Documents

    • Officer will verify and scan your documents

    • Provide your phone number for SMS updates

    Pay the Renewal Fee On-site

    • Use K-Net or cash at the PACI counter
    • Collect your receipt as confirmation

    Wait for SMS Confirmation

    • You’ll receive a text.

    Collect Your Civil ID After Renewal

    • Return to the center or use the collection machine

    • Bring your old Civil ID for return

    How to Renew Civil ID via SMS (If Available)

    Send SMS to 1889988 (if enabled by PACI)

    • This feature may be temporarily unavailable depending on system updates.

    Format the SMS

    • Type: ID <your_civil_id_number>

    • Example: ID 282081701234

    Receive Confirmation and Status

    • After sending the SMS, you will get a reply confirming:

      • Renewal eligibility

      • Current renewal status update (In Process / Printed / Ready for Collection)

    Follow PACI Instructions

    • If your ID is eligible for renewal, PACI may send:

      • A link for online K-Net payment (if available)

      • Instructions to complete renewal in person (if required)

    How to Use the PACI Hotline for Civil ID Renewal

    Call the Official PACI Hotline

    • Dial 1889988 from any Kuwait mobile or landline

    • Select your preferred language: Arabic or English

    Navigate the Menu

    • Press the option for Civil ID Renewal

    • Follow voice prompts carefully

    Enter Your Civil ID Number

    • Use the keypad to input your 12-digit ID number

    Confirm Your Identity

    • You may be asked to confirm your name, birth date, or mobile number

    System Checks Eligibility

    • If you’re eligible, you’ll be guided to payment (via online K-Net link or follow-up message)

    Receive Confirmation Message

    • PACI sends an SMS with your application number and estimated processing time

    Collect Your Civil ID Once Ready

    • Check the status online or wait for the SMS update
    • Visit PACI or use the delivery service if selected

    Required Documents for Kuwait Civil ID Renewal

    Below is a simplified list of the required documents to help you prepare for your ID renewal.

    Current Civil ID:

    • Your existing Civil ID, which provides proof of identity and important information for updating.

    Passport:

    • A valid passport to verify your identity and legal status.

    Residency Permit:

    • A copy of your valid residency permit (usually a sticker or stamp in your passport).

    Proof of Address:

    • A document verifying your current address in Kuwait, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.

    Recent Passport-Sized Photos:

    • A specific number of recent passport-sized photos, as required by the Civil ID authorities.

    Payment:

    • The renewal fee may vary. Check with the relevant authority for the latest fees and payment methods.

    Application Form:

    • A completed renewal application form, available at the Civil ID department or online.

    Fingerprint and Biometric Data:

    • You may need to provide your fingerprints and other biometric data.

    No Objection Certificate (NOC):

    • If employed, a NOC from your employer may be required.

    Health Insurance:

    • Proof of valid health insurance coverage.

    Other Specific Requirements:

    • Additional documents may be needed based on your individual circumstances. Check with Civil ID authorities or your local PACI office for details.

    Check If You’re Eligible for Civil ID Renewal

    • Before starting the renewal process, verify the expiration date on your current Civil ID.
    • Different categories of residents have varying renewal periods, which can range from 1 to 10 years. Ensure your ID is due for renewal.

    Civil ID Renewal Fees and Processing Time

    Civil ID TypeRenewal Fee
    Smart Civil ID with Embedded Chip5 KD
    Plastic Civil ID without Chip2 KD
    Home Delivery (Optional)2 KD extra

    Fee Notes:

    • Smart Card (with chip) is now recommended for most residents due to added security and electronic services integration.

    • Plastic Card (without chip) is still available but limited to basic ID use.

    • Home Delivery Service is optional. You can choose this at checkout during online payment on the PACI portal or opt to collect your card at a self-service machine.

    Civil ID Renewal Processing Time in 2025

    Renewal TypeExpected Processing Time
    Online Renewal with Home Delivery10–14 working days
    Online Renewal with PACI Pickup7–10 working days
    Walk-in Renewal (PACI Office)Same day to 3 working days (depending on volume)

    Track Your Renewal Progress

    In 2025, PACI encourages residents to:

    • Use the SMS method (if available) for status updates

    • Check PACI’s online portal regularly for card printing & collection notifications

    • Use MyPACI App (currently in soft-launch phase) for real-time updates (available for select users)


    The renewal of Kuwait’s Civil ID is a crucial process for residents as it grants access to various government services like healthcare, education, and social security benefits. Additionally, registering for Kuwaiti elections is a requirement to exercise your right to vote.

    FAQ

    How often do I need to renew my PACI Kuwait Civil ID?

    Civil IDs are typically renewed every 1 to 10 years, depending on your status.

    What documents do I need for paci renewal?

    You generally need a copy of your old Civil ID, a passport-sized photograph, and a valid residency visa (Iqama) (for expatriates).

    Can I renew my Civil ID online?

    Yes, you can often start the process online and then attend an in-person appointment.

    What is the fee for ID renewal?

    The Civil ID fee of 5 Kuwaiti Dinars is a mandatory payment that all individuals living in Kuwait are required to make in order to acquire or extend their Civil Identity Card.

    How Long Does It Take To Receive The New Civil ID?

    Usually, the process of renewing your Civil ID card in Kuwait spans a period of approximately 7 to 10 business days. In this timeframe, your renewal request is reviewed, and your updated Civil ID card is prepared. You can monitor the progress of your application by visiting the PACI website or utilizing the PACI mobile application.

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