Updated: 2026-04-17 · Complete Registration Manual
First-Time Civil ID Registration (Arts 18, 20, 22)
Obtaining your first Kuwait Civil ID involves two distinct phases: The Physical Prerequisites (Medicals, Biometrics, MOI Stamp) and the Online Registration (PACI e-Envelope). Here is the honest timeline and exactly how to submit your application online once you are eligible.
No Online Shortcuts for Biometrics
While the final application is submitted online, the first-time biometric fingerprinting and medical exams must be done in person. You cannot simply visit the PACI portal and request a new card on day one of arriving in Kuwait.
Phase 1: The Prerequisite Timeline
Before you can use the online portal, you must clear the following steps. This usually takes 4 to 5 weeks total.
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
1 Medical Test | Days 1–3 |
2 Fingerprinting | Days 3–7 |
3 MOI Stamp | Week 2–3 |
Phase 2: Online e-Envelope Registration
Once your residency is stamped by MOI, you (or your sponsor) have 30 days to submit the application via the PACI portal. The process differs slightly based on your Visa Article.
Expatriates (Article 18 - Private Sector)
- Visit the PACI Article 18 Registration Portal.
- Input your Civil ID Number, Passport Number, and Mobile Number.
- Input your PACI Unit Number (the 8 digits on your building).
- Verify your phone using the OTP sent via SMS.
- Select your religion, marital status, and upload a valid blood group document.
- Upload required files (passport copy, photo) and click Save.
Family Members (Article 22)
- Visit the PACI Article 22 Registration Portal.
- Input your Civil ID Number and Mobile Number.
- Input the Sponsor's Civil ID Number and the Sponsor's ID Serial Number.
- Verify the phone using OTP, then input personal details (blood group, religion).
- Upload required proof documents and submit.
Domestic Workers (Article 20)
- The Kuwaiti sponsor must visit the PACI Article 20 Portal.
- Input the Worker's Civil ID Number.
- Input the Sponsor's Civil ID Number and their card's Serial Number.
- Complete the OTP verification and upload the worker's documentation.
Documents & Registration Fees
Required Documents
- • Valid Passport Copy
- • Valid MOI Residency Stamp
- • Blood Type Certificate
- • 4x6 cm White Background Photo
- • Birth Certificate (for infants)
Registration Fees
- • Smart Card Issuance: 5.000 KD
- • Plastic Card (Art 20 only): 2.000 KD
- • Electronic Envelope Fee: 0.250 KD
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a deadline for registering my first Civil ID?
Yes. Expatriates must register for their Civil ID within 30 days of obtaining their residency permit (MOI stamp). Newborns must be registered within 60 days of birth. Missing these deadlines incurs a 20 KD fine.
Can I apply for my first-time Civil ID immediately upon arrival?
No. You must first complete your medical exams and biometric fingerprinting, and then receive your official residency stamp from the Ministry of Interior. Only then can you apply via PACI.
What is the PACI Unit Number?
The PACI unit number is the 8-digit number found on the metal plaque outside your residential building. You need this to verify your address during the online registration process.