Non-Kuwaiti Civil ID Photo Update: A Complete Guide to Updating Your Photo in Kuwait (2025)

Why is a Civil ID Photo Update Important for Non-Kuwaitis?

A Non-Kuwaiti photo update is not just about getting a new picture on your Civil ID — it is essential for maintaining accurate records and complying with the regulations in Kuwait. Whether you’re a resident worker, a student, or a long-term expat, your Civil ID serves as your official identity. It’s used for banking, healthcare, legal processes, and more.

If your photo is outdated, blurry, or no longer reflects your current appearance, you may face issues with verification in official processes. This is why the PACI Civil ID photo update is so crucial for residents who need to keep their records accurate.

Why should you update your photo?

Appearance changes (beard, glasses, hairstyle, weight loss, etc.)
PACI notification requesting a photo update
Card renewal or first-time issuance
Clearance for services (e.g., bank account, mobile services)

Keeping your Civil ID photo up-to-date will prevent unnecessary delays and ensure your documents remain valid across various services.

Who Needs to Update Their Civil ID Photo in Kuwait?

Not every Non-Kuwaiti resident needs to update their Civil ID photo, but certain situations call for a change. Here’s when you need to consider updating your Civil ID photo:

Changed appearance: If your facial features have changed significantly (e.g., growing a beard, weight changes, surgery, or aging), you should update your photo to reflect this change.
PACI notification: PACI might contact you to update your photo for various reasons, including errors in the existing image.
Renewing your Civil ID: When renewing your Civil ID, PACI will often request a new photo if the old one is outdated.
Expired ID: If your Civil ID is expired, you’ll need to update your photo as part of the renewal process.

If you’re not sure whether you need to update your photo, check with the PACI eServices portal or contact their customer support for clarification.

How Non-Kuwaitis Update Civil ID Photo Online?

The Civil ID photo update process for Non-Kuwaitis can be completed online through the official PACI eServices portal. This is a convenient way to update your photo without needing to visit PACI in person.

Step-by-Step Guide for Non-Kuwaitis:

Step #1. Go to the PACI Website

Visit the official PACI eServices page at https://www.paci.gov.kw/EServices/Services.aspx.

Step #2. Select “Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update”

Under the “Individual Services” section, find and click on the “Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update” button.

Step #3. Enter Your Details

You will be asked to enter your Civil ID number, serial number (found on the back of your card), and your mobile number for OTP verification.

Step #4. Verify Your Mobile Number

You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your mobile. Enter the OTP to continue.

Step #5. Upload Your New Photo

Follow the specifications provided by PACI:

Size: 4×6 cm
Format: JPEG or JPG
Background: Blue
Pose: Full frontal, no filters, no glasses, neutral expressionRead More: Kuwait Civil ID Fine Check Online Using Mobile or laptop

Step #6. Submit Additional Documents (if required)

You may need to upload supporting documents, such as:

A copy of your Civil ID
A recent passport copy
Any other required documents specified by PACI.

Step #7. Submit Your Request

Once everything is uploaded and confirmed, submit the request for PACI review.

Step #8. Confirmation

After submission, PACI will send you a confirmation SMS with a reference number and a tracking link to follow your application’s progress.

Required Documents for PACI Civil ID Photo Update

To successfully update your Civil ID photo, you will need to gather the following documents:

Civil ID Number: Found on your current Civil ID card
Serial Number: This is located on the back of your Civil ID card
Mobile Number: Your mobile number is necessary to receive the OTP for verification
Passport-Size Photo: Ensure the photo is recent and meets PACI’s guidelines (4×6 cm, blue background)
Passport Copy: This is often required for non-Kuwaiti residents.
Embassy Letter: If you’ve been residing in Kuwait for over 5 years, you may need a letter from your embassy confirming your identity.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Rejections to update civil id photo

When updating your Civil ID photo online, there are common mistakes that can cause delays or rejections. Here’s how to avoid them:

Wrong Background: PACI only accepts photos with a blue background. Photos with a white or other colored background will be rejected.
Incorrect Size: Make sure your photo is the correct size (4×6 cm).
File Size: Ensure the photo file size is under 500 KB.
Blurry or Edited Photos: Only upload clear, natural photos without any filters or heavy edits.
Invalid Documents: Ensure all uploaded documents (e.g., passport copy) are clear and legible.

If your application is rejected, PACI will send an SMS explaining the issue. You can resubmit your updated photo and documents after correcting the problem.

How to Track Your Civil ID Photo Update Status?

Once you’ve submitted your Civil ID photo update request, you can track its progress through the PACI system.

Tracking Your Application:

SMS Link: PACI will send you an SMS with a reference number and a clickable link to track your status.
PACI Status Page:
- Visit the PACI status page at https://services.paci.gov.kw/card/status.
- Enter your Civil ID number or the reference number you received in the SMS.

Status Updates You Might See

In Progress: Your application is being processed.
Approved: Your photo has been accepted and the Civil ID is ready for printing.
Rejected: There was an issue with the photo or documents.
Under Printing: Your new Civil ID is being printed.
Ready for Collection: Your new Civil ID is ready to be picked up.

Final Thoughts

Updating your Civil ID photo is an essential task for Non-Kuwaiti residents in Kuwait to ensure that your official documents are up-to-date and valid. Following the PACI photo update process ensures that your photo is accepted, your documents are verified smoothly, and you avoid any unnecessary delays in services.

Remember to always follow the official PACI photo specifications and use a professional photo service to ensure your submission meets all requirements. Track your status regularly, and if any issues arise, don’t hesitate to correct and resubmit your application.

How do Non-Kuwaiti residents update their Civil ID photo in Kuwait?

Non-Kuwaiti residents can update their Civil ID photo online through the PACI eServices portal. Here’s a simplified process:
1. Visit the PACI Website: Go to https://www.paci.gov.kw/EServices/Services.aspx.
2. Click on “Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update”: Under the “Individual Services” section, select the Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update option.
3. Enter Your Details: Provide your Civil ID number, serial number, and mobile number for OTP verification.
4. Upload Your New Photo: Make sure it meets PACI’s photo specifications (blue background, 4×6 cm).
5. Submit Additional Documents: You may need to upload your passport copy or Civil ID copy.
6. Submit and Confirm: Review and submit your request. PACI will send you an SMS confirmation with a reference number.
You can track your update status via the PACI status page or by using the tracking link sent via SMS.

How long does the photo update process take?

The update is typically completed within 3–10 working days. Printing the card may take an additional 2–3 days.

Is there a fee for the update?

The photo update itself is free. However, if a new Civil ID card is issued, there is usually a 5 KD fee.

Can I update my child’s Civil ID photo online?

Yes, the process for children is similar. You will need to provide the child’s Civil ID number and a new passport-sized photo.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

You will receive an SMS explaining why your photo was rejected. After fixing the issue, you can reapply online.

Can I use the PACI app for photo updates?

Currently, updates must be completed via the PACI website. The app may support this in future updates.