Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Online paci: A Complete Guide (2025)

If you’re living in Kuwait and need to update the photo on your Civil ID, you’re not alone. Whether you’ve received a notification from PACI, changed your appearance, or need to renew your ID, this guide covers everything you need to know. We’ll walk you through the online photo update process, how to track the status of your request, common mistakes to avoid, and more.

Why Is Your Civil ID Photo So Important?

Your Civil ID photo is more than just a picture. It’s the face of your legal identity in Kuwait. Banks, ministries, airports, and even delivery services rely on that image to confirm you are you.

But what if your appearance has changed? Or your child’s photo was taken years ago? Or PACI sends you a message asking for an update?

That’s when a civil id photo update becomes necessary.

Let’s break it all down in simple steps.

Who Needs to Update Their Civil ID Photo?

You may need to update your Civil ID photo if:

Your appearance has significantly changed.
You’re renewing your Civil ID after several years.
Your photo no longer matches your passport.
PACI has requested a new photo.
You’re updating a child’s Civil ID (typically required at certain ages, e.g., 10 or 18).

Requirements for Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Online

Before you begin, gather the following:

Civil ID Number and Serial Number (found on the back of your card).
Mobile Number registered for SMS (you’ll receive OTP and updates via SMS).
A recent passport-style photo:

PACI Photo Requirements:

Size: 4×6 cm
Format: JPEG or JPG
Background: Blue only (not white!)
Face: Full front view, no filters, no glasses, neutral expression
Head coverings: Allowed for religious reasons only

Documents:

Copy of your passport (main page).
Copy of your current Civil ID.
Embassy letter (if required, usually after 5+ years of residency).

Documents & Details Required:

Requirement	Notes
Valid Civil ID number	Found on your ID
Serial number (on back of ID)	This is different from the Civil ID number
Mobile number	Must be active for OTP verification
Passport copy (for expats)	Must match current information
Old Civil ID scan	A clear image of both sides
Recent passport-size photo	Must follow PACI’s official specs (see below)
Embassy letter (sometimes)	For expats living in Kuwait more than 5 years

How to Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Online pACI Through Mobile? (Step-by-Step 2025)

Step #1. Visit PACI E-Services Portal:

Go to https://paci.gov.kw/EServices/Services.aspx. Switch to English if needed.

Step #2. Choose the Kuwaiti Photo Update

Click on “Kuwaiti Photo Update”. Non-Kuwaiti citizens can select the appropriate alternative.

Step #3. Enter Your Details

Fill in your Civil ID, serial number, and mobile number. Click “Next.”

Step #4. Verify OTP

You’ll receive a 6-digit code via SMS. Enter it to proceed.

Step #5. Upload Required Files:

Upload your new photo.
Upload copies of Civil ID and passport.
If applicable, upload the embassy letter

Step #6. Confirm & Submit

Double-check the information and click “Submit.”

SMS Confirmation: You’ll receive an SMS with a tracking link or number.

Note: Each SMS from PACI costs 50 fils.

PACI Civil ID Photo Update – In-Person Method

Some people can’t do it online. That’s when the in-person PACI photo update comes in. This is usually for:

Kuwaiti citizens
Expats who’ve had multiple rejections
Special or urgent cases

Visit PACI Headquarters:

South Surra, Kuwait City

Bring:

All documents (same as above)
A printed photo following specs
Your Civil ID

Processing can take a few days to a week, depending on volume.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Use a professional studio: Especially for blue background compliance.
Do not edit background manually: The system may reject inconsistent shades.
Keep file sizes reasonable: Under 500 KB preferred.
Use your passport photo: If recent and compliant.
Track your status regularly: If no updates after 10 days, consider calling PACI.

How to Track the Status of Your Photo Update?

Once submitted, here’s how to monitor progress:

Via SMS Link: Use the link provided in the confirmation SMS.
Via PACI Status Portal: Visit https://www.paci.gov.kw/Status.aspx and enter your Civil ID or reference number.

Typical statuses include:

“In Progress”
“Approved”
“Under Printing”
“Ready for Collection”

Most updates are approved within 3–10 working days. Card printing may take an additional few days.

Read More: What is PACI in Kuwait?

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

Many people get stuck or rejected because of small errors. Avoid these!

Mistake	Fix It Like This
Using a white background photo	Always use blue background – it’s mandatory
Blurry or over-edited photo	Use a professional studio familiar with PACI requirements
Wrong file size or format	Use JPEG format, under 500 KB
Submitting expired passport copy	Ensure your passport scan is valid and clear
Ignoring the embassy letter	If PACI asks for it, provide it – usually after 5+ years in Kuwait
Missed OTP/SMS	Make sure your mobile number is correct and active

Pro Tip: If you get rejected, don’t panic. Wait for the SMS, fix the problem, and re-submit.

Final Thoughts

Updating your Civil ID photo in Kuwait isn’t hard—but it does require attention to detail. Whether you’re doing a civil id photo update online, or need to visit PACI in person, being prepared is the key.

Here’s what matters most:

Follow the PACI photo rules (blue background, clear image)
Submit all required documents
Track your application properly
Don’t ignore PACI SMS – they’re official updates!

By following this guide, you can avoid delays, save time, and keep your Kuwait civil ID photo accurate and up to date. If you’ve been searching for how to do a paci photo update, this article gives you everything you need to know, and more.

How long does the Civil ID photo update take?

Approval typically takes 3–10 working days, but it may take up to 2 weeks.

How to track your Civil ID photo update request?

You can track your Civil ID photo update status in Kuwait in two main ways:
Via SMS Tracking Link
After you submit your photo through the PACI online portal, you’ll receive an SMS with a link. Click the link to check your application status in real time.
Via the PACI Civil ID Status Portal
Go to https://www.paci.gov.kw/CivilIDStatus
Enter your Civil ID number
Click “Submit” to view current progress (e.g. “In Process”, “Approved”, or “Rejected”)
💡 Tip: Most approvals take 3–10 working days. If it takes longer, contact PACI directly.

Can I change my photo in my Civil ID if I’ve grown a beard?

Yes, you can update your Civil ID photo if you’ve grown a beard or made any significant change to your appearance.
PACI encourages residents to update their photo if it no longer accurately reflects their current look. This helps avoid issues at banks, airports, and government offices.
To change your photo:
1. Visit the PACI photo update portal
2. Submit a new photo that matches your current appearance (with the beard)
3. Follow the step-by-step process online
Just make sure the new photo follows PACI’s official specs: blue background, clear view of your face, and neutral expression.

What’s the process for PACI Civil ID photo change for children?

Updating a child’s Civil ID photo in Kuwait follows a similar process to adults, but with a few specific considerations:
Online Process for Non-Kuwaiti Children:
1. Go to the PACI Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update Portal
2. Enter the child’s Civil ID and serial number
3. Use your mobile number to receive the OTP
4. Upload the child’s new photo and required documents (passport copy, current Civil ID)
5. Submit the application
Note: For younger children (under 5), PACI may not require frequent updates. However, around ages 10 and 18, updates are often mandatory as the child’s face matures.
Tip: Make sure the child’s photo is clear, recent, and follows all official guidelines — especially the blue background and front-facing pose.

How to do a Civil ID photo update in Kuwait?

To update your Civil ID photo in Kuwait, follow these basic steps:
1. Go to the official PACI website: https://www.paci.gov.kw
2. Choose the appropriate photo update service based on your nationality (Kuwaiti or non-Kuwaiti)
3. Enter your Civil ID details and mobile number to receive a verification code (OTP)
4. Upload a new photo that meets PACI’s requirements (blue background, JPEG, front-facing)
5. Attach any required documents like your passport, Civil ID, or embassy letter if needed
6. Submit your request and wait for confirmation via SMS
You can track your application online. Most requests are processed within 3 to 10 working days.

What if my photo is rejected?

You’ll receive an SMS explaining the issue. Submit a new photo that meets PACI guidelines.

Is updating a child’s photo different?

Process is similar. Use the child’s Civil ID and provide the required documents.