Introduction
In Kuwait, the Civil ID, also known by many as the Iqama, is one of the most essential documents you need to live, work, or access any service in the country. It proves your legal residency, contains your personal info, and connects you to almost every official system.
But what happens if you’re waiting for your Civil ID and need to know its current status? Or you’re not sure if it’s expired? Or maybe you’ve just renewed your residency and want to see if your new card is ready?
This guide will walk you through how to check Kuwait Civil ID (Iqama) status online using the latest and easiest methods. Whether you’re an expat or a citizen, you’ll find practical steps, examples, and helpful insights.
Note: Unlike Saudi Arabia’s color-coded iqama system (Red, Green, etc.), Kuwait doesn’t use color indicators. Instead, your Civil ID (Iqama) status is shown in plain terms like “Under Process” or “Ready.” This is important to know if you’re coming from KSA or have worked there before.
Read More: How to Check My National Identification Number in Kuwait?
Table of Contents
Read More: How to find residency number in kuwait civil id? Complete Guide
What is Civil ID (Iqama) Status in Kuwait?
In Kuwait, your Civil ID — sometimes called “Iqama” — is the official residency document issued by PACI (Public Authority for Civil Information). When people ask about their iqama check or Civil ID status, they’re usually referring to whether:
- Their card has been issued
- It’s ready for pickup or delivery
- It’s expired or still valid
Unlike countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait doesn’t assign color codes (like Red or Green) to indicate status. Everything is shown as plain text updates, and you can check it through the PACI website, eGov portal, SMS, or the Kuwait Mobile ID app.
This means your Iqama (Civil ID) status in Kuwait is not linked to employer rankings or color categories — just your personal residency and card processing status.
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Why Checking Civil ID Status Matters?
Here’s why knowing how to check Iqama status or Civil ID status is important:
- Avoids problems during travel
- Ensures your ID is valid during job or visa processing
- Helps you confirm whether your card is ready for pickup or delivery
- Saves time by avoiding unnecessary visits to PACI offices
- Alerts you if there’s any delay or issue with your application
Let’s now look at how to check Kuwait Civil ID status online, using multiple trusted and official methods.
Methods How to Check Kuwait Civil ID (Iqama) Status Online?
Method #1. Using the PACI Civil ID Status Inquiry Page
The most reliable and official method to check your Kuwait Civil ID (Iqama) status is through PACI’s direct card inquiry page:
Steps:
1. Go to: https://services.paci.gov.kw/card/inquiry?lang=en&serviceType=2
2. Enter your Civil ID number.

3. Click Submit

You’ll immediately see your card’s current status:
- Under Process
- Ready for Pickup
- Expired or Invalid
This is the go-to method if you recently renewed your iqama (residency) and want to confirm if your card is ready.
Read More: How to Get Civil ID Serial Number in Kuwait? A Complete Guide
Method #2. Through Kuwait Government Online Portal
This is another official and simple method to check your Civil ID (Iqama) status in Kuwait, especially for those unfamiliar with PACI’s main portal.
Steps:
1. Go to https://e.gov.kw/sites/kgoenglish/Pages/eServices/PACI/CivilIDStatus.aspx
(Or just search “civil id status full guide” on Google and click the first result.)
2. Enter your Civil ID number in the box

3. Click the red Query button
Once submitted, the system will show you whether your ID is:
- Being processed
- Ready for collection or delivery
- Expired
📞 Note: This same service is also available via voice query by calling 1889988, as shown in the official instructions.
This method is user-friendly and can be helpful for both residents and citizens who are not used to the PACI website layout.
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Method #3. Mobile ID App (Hawiyati)
If you prefer mobile access, download the Kuwait Mobile ID app (Hawiyati). It:
- Shows a digital copy of your Civil ID
- Lets you check Kuwait Civil ID validity status
- Offers secure e-signatures and QR code sharing
Available for both Android and iOS. You’ll need to register and verify using your civil number.
Read More: PACI Online Appointment For Civil ID – Complete Guide
Method #4. SMS & Phone Services
If you don’t have internet access, use these options:
- Call 1889988 (PACI voice system)
- Send SMS to 1889988 with: M <your civil ID number>
You’ll get an auto-response with the status.
Method #5. Iqama Check by Passport Number
No ID number yet? No worries.
- Go to PACI’s “Reference Number Inquiry” page
- Choose expat
- Enter passport number and expiry date
You’ll get your application reference or Civil ID info to continue the iqama checking process.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Iqama Status in Kuwait?
Let’s say you’ve just arrived in Kuwait and submitted your documents. Here’s a real example of how to check iqama status in Kuwait:
- Go to the PACI website
- Click on Card Status
- Enter your Civil ID number
- Hit Submit
The system might show:
- “Card is being processed” – wait a few days
- “Card is ready” – collect it from the kiosk or arrange delivery
- “Card not found” – check details or call PACI
Alternatively, if you only have your passport, follow the Kuwait iqama check by passport number steps mentioned earlier.
Tips to Avoid Delays or Problems
Here’s how to make your iqama check status online smooth and stress-free:
- Do your biometric fingerprinting (mandatory now)
- Keep your residency renewed on time
- Use the Mobile ID for quick status updates
- Always enter correct data (name, passport info)
- Set up delivery to avoid forgetting to pick it up
- Check Kuwait civil id validity status regularly if you’re traveling soon
Understanding Kuwait Civil ID Validity Status
Your Civil ID is usually valid for:
- Kuwaitis: 5 years
- Expats: Matches residency duration (1–2 years usually)
Check validity using:
- PACI site’s Card Validity tool
- Mobile ID app
- eGov portal
Important: Even if your card looks valid, it’s not usable if your residency (iqama) is expired. That’s why doing a Kuwait iqama check online is just as important as the card status.
Final Thoughts
Checking your Kuwait Civil ID (Iqama) status online isn’t just a good idea – it’s a smart move that can save you stress, fines, and legal issues.
Whether you’re waiting on a new ID, checking if your card is ready, or confirming its validity for travel or job applications – you now have all the tools you need.
And remember: your Civil ID is the key to your identity in Kuwait. Keep it valid, check it regularly, and make use of the PACI systems and apps built to make your life easier.
Have more questions about how to check iqama status in Kuwait or dealing with delays? Let us know – we’re here to help you navigate Kuwait’s systems with confidence.
How to Use the PACI Civil ID Status Inquiry Page?
Go to https://services.paci.gov.kw/card/inquiry?lang=en&serviceType=2. This is the direct link to PACI’s official Civil ID status service.
Steps:
1. Enter your Civil ID number in the box
2. Click Submit
The system will show if your card is:
Under process
Ready for pickup
Expired or invalid
This is one of the fastest and most accurate ways to check your iqama status in Kuwait.
How to Use the Kuwait Government Online Portal?
If you prefer a simpler layout or can’t access PACI’s main portal, use this method:
Steps:
Visit https://e.gov.kw/sites/kgoenglish/Pages/eServices/PACI/CivilIDStatus.aspx
Enter your Civil ID number
Click the red Query button
This service gives the same result as PACI’s site and is especially helpful for new users.
How to Check Civil ID Status Using Kuwait Mobile ID App?
Download the Kuwait Mobile ID app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Steps:
Register with your Civil ID and verify via OTP
Log in to your account
The app displays your digital ID, including current status and validity
It’s secure and accepted across most government services.
How to Check Civil ID Status by Phone?
Call 1889988, which is PACI’s official voice query system.
Steps:
1. Dial 1889988
2. Choose your preferred language
3. Select the option for Civil ID status inquiry
4. Enter your Civil ID number when prompted
The system will read out your current card status.
How to Check Civil ID Status by SMS?
If you don’t have internet access, use this SMS service:
Steps:
Open your phone’s message app
Type M <your Civil ID number>
Send the SMS to 1889988
You’ll get a reply with your card’s status
Quick and easy for users on the go.
How to Check Civil ID or Iqama Status by Passport Number?
If your Civil ID hasn’t been issued yet and you only have a passport:
Steps:
1. Visit the PACI site’s reference number inquiry page
2. Select “Expatriate”
3. Enter your passport number and expiry date
4. Click submit to get your application reference or status
This method is especially helpful for new arrivals or dependents who don’t yet have a Civil ID number.
Why is my Civil ID taking so long?
You might be missing the new biometric fingerprint requirement
Residency (iqama) not yet renewed in MOI system
Technical delays or mismatched data
Can I use Mobile ID if my physical card is delayed?
Yes! The Mobile ID app is accepted across government offices, banks, and airports. It shows your iqama status digitally.
Is there a fine for not collecting my Civil ID?
Yes. If you don’t pick it up within 3 months, PACI may charge KD 20, and after 6 months, destroy the card.
My ID says expired, but I renewed residency. What now?
Sometimes, PACI takes a few days to update info after residency renewal. Use the Mobile ID or MOI portal in the meantime.