MyKuwait.id

Updated: 2026-04-17 · Required Protocols

Lost Civil ID: Replacement Guide & Fees

The first thing to do when you realize your Civil ID is gone isn't to panic — it's to file a police report. Without that report, PACI won't process the replacement. Here's exactly what to bring and what to expect once you get there.

Immediate Steps to Replace Your Card

  1. File a Police Report Immediately

    Go to your nearest local police station and report the loss. You must ask for a stamped, official Arabic copy of the police report. PACI will not process a replacement without this exact document.

  2. Visit PACI Headquarters

    Book a Meta platform appointment and visit the main PACI building in South Surra. Bring your police report, original passport, and a copy of your sponsor/employer's permission letter.

  3. Pay the Replacement Fee

    A replacement for a lost card costs 15 KD, which you must pay at the PACI portal or counter via KNET. (Note: Many unofficial guides mistakenly state it is 5 KD, but 15 KD is the legally mandated fine for a lost card).

  4. Biometrics Verification (If Required)

    For expatriates, PACI may request you to resubmit or verify your fingerprint scans on-site to ensure identity security.

  5. Wait for Processing & Collect

    The new card typically takes 3 to 10 working days to process. Once the status shows "Ready for Collection," you can pick it up or request home delivery for an extra 2 KD.

The Truth About Replacement Fees

Be aware: Many outdated guides suggest the fee is only 5 KD. This is false. A standard renewal or a replacement for a damaged (surrendered) card costs 5 KD. A replacement for a lost card carries a strict 15 KD fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The official fee for replacing a lost Civil ID is 15 KD. Standard renewals cost 5 KD, but a lost card incurs a higher penalty.
Yes! This is a massive advantage. If you previously activated the Kuwait Mobile ID (Hawiyati) app, the digital version remains legally valid while your new physical card is being processed.
While some renewals can be processed completely online, a lost card replacement typically requires physical submission of the police report and potential biometric verification.