What Is the National Identification Number in Kuwait?
The national identification number in Kuwait, commonly referred to as the Civil ID number, is a 12-digit code issued to every citizen and legal resident by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). The Kuwait Civil ID information number is printed on your Kuwait Civil ID card and serves as your official identity for government records, banking, healthcare, and countless daily services.
Information Scoure: Wikipedia
Your Civil ID number is much more than a number. It’s the key that links you to every legal transaction and government service in the country.
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Table of Contents
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Kuwait Civil ID Number Format (Understanding the Structure)
Kuwait’s Civil ID number follows a standardized format that encodes personal information in a simple 12-digit string.
Format: NYYMMDDNNNNN
Here’s what it means:
- N: Century code (2 for 1900s, 3 for 2000s)
- YYMMDD: Your date of birth
- NNNNN: A unique serial number assigned to you
Kuwait civil id sample Example:
Civil ID number 289011212345
- 2 = Born in 1900s
- 890112 = January 12, 1989
- 12345 = Your unique ID sequence
This design simplifies identification and reduces the chances of duplication or misidentification.
Read More: How to find residency number in kuwait civil id? Complete Guide
Why Is the Kuwait Civil ID Number So Important?
In Kuwait, your Civil ID isn’t just used for identification — it’s legally required for a variety of critical services and functions:
- Banking: Opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or conducting transactions
- Healthcare: Hospital registrations, prescriptions, insurance validation
- Residency & Employment: Managing visas, payroll, and employment status
- Government Services: Using PACI, MOI, and eGovernment platforms
- Travel: Especially for Kuwaiti citizens within GCC countries
- Examinations: Required for IELTS and other standardized testing
Whether you’re a resident or a national, your Kuwait Civil ID number is used in almost every aspect of public life.
How to Check Your National Identification Number in Kuwait?
There are multiple official ways to check or retrieve your Civil ID number in Kuwait, even if you don’t have your card with you.
Method #1. Check National Identification Number Using the PACI Website on Mobile
The most accurate and official method is through the PACI website.
Steps:
- Visit https://www.paci.gov.kw
- Click on “Card Status”
- Enter your Civil ID number or passport/residency number.
- Click Submit
- View:
- Card status (in process or ready for pickup)
- Expiry date
- Collection center
- Card status (in process or ready for pickup)
Why use PACI?
- Trusted and official source
- Updated in real time
- Available in both Arabic and English
Read More: how to change mobile number in civil id kuwait? Complete Guide
Method #2. Call the PACI Helpline for National Identification Number Checking
If you prefer speaking to a person or cannot access the internet:
- Dial 1889988
- Choose your preferred language.
- Follow the prompts to check Civil ID status.
- Enter your Civil ID number or speak to a representative.
Best used during PACI working hours for full support.
Read More: PACI Online Appointment For Civil ID – Complete Guide
Method #3. Use the Kuwait Mobile ID App for the National Identification Number
The Kuwait Mobile ID App is a secure, government-issued digital ID tool.
What you can do with it:
- View your Civil ID number and full card details
- Check ID card validity
- Use for identity verification in official transactions
- Store a digital version of your ID card on your phone
Available for Android and iOS. Note: You must complete high-level verification to access all features.
Read More: How to Get Civil ID Serial Number in Kuwait? A Complete Guide
Method #4. *Dial 346# to Retrieve Your NIN (National ID Number)
This method is incredibly helpful if you:
- Don’t have internet access
- Have lost your physical ID
- Need quick access via mobile
Steps to Retrieve NIN:
- Dial *346# from your mobile phone
- Select “NIN Retrieval” by typing ‘1’
- Ensure the number you are using is the same as the one you used during NIN enrollment.
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Your National Identification Number will be displayed
This is a fast, offline method that works across most mobile networks in Kuwait.
Read More: PACI Kuwait Civil ID Collection Timings and Collection Process
How to Apply for a Civil ID? (If You’re New in Kuwait)
To get your first Civil ID, you’ll need to apply through PACI or the Ministry of Interior. The process includes submitting personal details, uploading a passport photo, and paying a fee.
👉 For full step-by-step instructions, check our complete guide: How to Apply for a New Civil ID in Kuwait?
How to Renew Your Civil ID in Kuwait?
Civil ID renewal depends on whether you’re a citizen or an expat. Citizens can renew online or by phone, while expats need to visit PACI in person.
👉 Need the full renewal process with tips and documents list? How to Renew Your Civil ID – Complete Guide
Key Features of the Kuwait Civil ID Card
The Kuwait Civil ID card is more than a plastic document — it’s a secure digital identity tool.
Identity & Info
- Full name (Arabic and English)
- Gender and birthdate
- Nationality and visa status
- Civil ID number
Security Features
- Embedded chip with encrypted data
- Digital memory for records
- Holograms and anti-counterfeit protections
- Optional PIN for access control
Functionality
- Access to MOI, PACI, and government eServices
- Digital signatures and contactless payments
- Used for exams, healthcare, residency, and more
- Travel within the GCC for citizens
Where Can You Use Your Civil ID Number in Kuwait?
Your Civil ID number is required in:
- PACI and MOI portals
- Government service applications
- Banks and financial institutions
- Hospitals and clinics
- Universities and schools
- Visa and immigration renewals
- Employment and payroll systems
- Exams like IELTS or other official certifications
How to Check Civil ID Validity?
Wondering if your Kuwait Civil ID is still valid? You can quickly check the status and expiry date using the PACI website or the Kuwait Mobile ID app.
👉 For a step-by-step guide with screenshots and all the available methods, check out our full article:
How to Check Your Civil ID Validity in Kuwait – Full Guide
Lost Your Civil ID? Here’s What to Do
Losing your Civil ID can be stressful, but the process is straightforward:
- Call or visit PACI to report the loss
- Submit a replacement application
- Provide identity documents (passport, residency)
- Pay the replacement fee
- Collect the new card after processing
Always keep a backup or digital version using the Mobile ID App.
Conclusion: Your Civil ID Is Your Identity in Kuwait
The Kuwait national identification number — also known as your Civil ID number — plays a foundational role in every citizen and resident’s life. From government services and health care to banking and travel, this number connects you to the country’s essential infrastructure.
Now that you know how to check, apply, and manage your Civil ID in Kuwait, make sure to use official PACI channels, avoid scams, and always renew on time.
Your Civil ID is your legal key to Kuwait — secure it, check it, and keep it updated.
Is my Civil ID number the same as the national identification number?
Yes. In Kuwait, the Civil ID number is your national identification number. It is issued by PACI and is used for everything from banking and healthcare to visas and government services.
How can I find my national ID number without my card?
You have several options:
1. Use the PACI website with your passport/residency info
2. Log into the Mobile ID App
3. Dial *346# and select NIN Retrieval, using your registered phone number
Is the Civil ID number the same as the TIN (Tax Identification Number) in Kuwait?
In most cases, yes. For individuals, the Civil ID number often functions as the Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Kuwait, since it’s used in financial and legal records. However, for businesses, a separate TIN may be issued.
What is the PACI number in Kuwait?
The PACI number refers to your Civil ID number, issued by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). In Arabic, it’s often called رقم البطاقة المدنية or simply الرقم المدني.
What is meant by ‘Kuwait number’?
The term “Kuwait number” can be confusing. People may use it to mean:
1. A phone number (dialing code: +965)
2. A Civil ID number
3. A TIN
4. Or even a visa or residency number
If you’re referring to identification, you’re likely looking for your Civil ID number.
What is the Civil ID card serial number or reference number?
The serial number on your Civil ID refers to the last 5 digits of the 12-digit number.
There’s no separate “reference number” on the card — the Civil ID number is used across all government platforms as the main reference.
What is the Civil ID box number?
The term “box number” is often misunderstood. Some people confuse it with:
Mail delivery box numbers (P.O. Boxes)
Or a code printed on older Civil ID cards
It is not the same as your Civil ID number and is generally not required for digital services.
How is the Civil ID number structured?
It follows this format: NYYMMDDNNNNN
N
: Century digit (2 = 1900s, 3 = 2000s)YYMMDD
: Your birthdateNNNNN
: Unique ID sequence
Example: 289011212345
means born on Jan 12, 1989.