What to Do If Your Civil ID Expires

Living in Kuwait comes with one vital rule: your Civil ID must always be valid. Whether you’re a Kuwaiti citizen or an expat resident, this small plastic card is your key to everything, from opening a bank account to using government services. But what happens when your Civil ID expires?

How Do You Know If Your Civil ID Has Expired?

Most people realize their Civil ID has expired when:

• The card gets rejected at banks, mobile shops, or government offices.

• You receive a notification on the PACI Mobile ID App (Hawiyati).

• You check the status online and see messages like:
  “Card Expired” or “Not Valid”.

Why Does It Matter If Your Civil ID Expires?

An expired Civil ID isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it can cause serious legal and practical problems, especially for expats.

Here’s what can happen:

• You can’t access banking, renew licenses, or use e-government services.

• Your residency renewal may be delayed or blocked.

• Overstay fines may apply if your residency expired too.

Can You Still Use It After It’s Expired?

In some cases, yes, but only temporarily.

• Some services might accept Mobile ID as a digital substitute.

• You might still be able to log into government portals using your credentials.

• But for official purposes (travel, legal work, leasing, etc.), you must renew.

What To Do Immediately After Civil ID Expiry

Step 1: Check Status Online

• Visit paci.gov.kw

• Use your Civil ID number to query status

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

• We’ll cover this in the next section.

Step 3: Start the Online Renewal

• You can do this without visiting an office unless biometric capture is needed.

Documents Needed for Civil ID Renewal (Post-Expiry)

Prepare these documents to make your renewal smooth:

• Expired Civil ID

• Passport copy with valid residency (for expats)

• Recent photo (4×6 cm, white background, no glasses or uniforms)

• Blood type certificate (if renewing for the first time)

• Work permit or sponsor letter

• Online payment receipt

Civil ID Expired but Residency Still Valid?

You’re in luck! If your Iqama (residency) is active:

• You can renew your Civil ID without fines.

• PACI allows renewal through the portal.

• Use the Mobile ID app in the meantime.

What If Your Civil ID and Residency Both Expired?

What If Your Civil ID and Residency Both Expired?

This is more serious, especially for expats.

• You may face daily fines (KD 2/day) for overstaying.

• First, go to the Immigration Office to renew your residency.

• Then, apply for Civil ID renewal.

Can You Renew Your Expired Civil ID From Abroad?

Yes, but it’s tricky.

• Use the PACI website to start the renewal.

• You’ll need someone in Kuwait to collect your card; give them power of attorney.

• Alternatively, contact your nearest Kuwaiti embassy.

Civil ID Renewal Fees After Expiry

The standard fee for renewal is:

• KD 5 for regular plastic cards

• KD 10 for smart chip cards (eID)

Late fees or fines depend on residency status, not just the card.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your New Civil ID?

• Usually 7–10 working days after applying

• You’ll receive a message when it’s ready for pickup

Track your status:

• Via PACI website

• SMS: Send M CivilIDNumber to 1889988

• Call hotline: 1889988

Can PACI Reject Your Renewal?

Unfortunately, yes. Common reasons:

• Mismatched documents

• Unreadable or wrong photo

• Unpaid fines

• Expired residency

If your Kuwait Civil ID has expired, don’t stress, it’s fixable. Whether you’re still in Kuwait or abroad, the renewal process is simple as long as you act fast. The key is knowing what steps to take, having your documents ready, and staying up to date with PACI regulations.