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Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Online – Complete PACI Guide 2026

Dear All, you will find the details about Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update | If the photo on your Kuwait Civil ID is old, no longer looks like you, or needs to be replaced for identification purposes, you can apply to update your Civil ID photo through the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI).

PACI provides electronic photo-update services for different categories of people, including Kuwaiti citizens, non-Kuwaiti residents and eligible GCC nationals. Learn how to update your Kuwait Civil ID photo online through PACI. Complete guide for citizens, expatriates and GCC residents, including requirements and fees.

The process can be completed through PACI’s electronic services, and some services are also available through the Sahel application. The documents and requirements can differ depending on whether you are a Kuwaiti citizen, expatriate or GCC national.

In this complete guide, you will learn how to update your Kuwait Civil ID photo online, what documents are required, the photo specifications, the applicable fee, how the process works for expatriates, and what to do if your photograph does not meet PACI requirements.

What Is a Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update?

A Civil ID photo update means replacing the photograph currently associated with your Kuwait Civil ID with a new photograph.

You may want or need to update your photo if:

Your appearance has changed significantly
Your existing Civil ID photo is very old
Your current photograph does not clearly resemble you
PACI requires a new photograph
Your passport contains a newer photograph
You need your identification records to contain a more recent image

PACI provides dedicated online services for updating Civil ID photographs.

The official PACI electronic services portal currently lists separate services for Kuwaiti citizens, GCC nationals and non-Kuwaiti residents.

Who Can Update Their Kuwait Civil ID Photo?

The photo-update process depends on your category.

Generally, PACI provides separate procedures for:

Kuwaiti citizens
Non-Kuwaiti residents
GCC nationals

The required documents can differ between these categories.

For example, PACI’s current non-Kuwaiti photo-update service requires a valid passport and a recent personal photograph that meets the required specifications.

GCC nationals may have additional documentation requirements depending on their circumstances in Kuwait.

How to Update Kuwait Civil ID Photo Online

The easiest method for eligible applicants is to use the official PACI electronic service.

Follow the steps below carefully.

Step 1: Open the Official PACI Website

Start by opening the official PACI electronic services website.

Official PACI Website:

https://services.paci.gov.kw/

PACI provides electronic services that allow users to complete several Civil ID-related transactions without necessarily visiting a PACI office.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Photo Update Service

PACI provides different photo-update services depending on your category.

Choose the service that applies to you:

Update Photo for Kuwaiti Individual
Update Photo for Non-Kuwaiti Individual
Update Photo for GCC Individual

Selecting the correct service is important because the required documents and eligibility conditions can be different.

Step 3: Enter Your Civil ID Information

The online photo-update service may ask you to enter identification details such as:

Civil ID number
Civil ID serial number
Mobile phone number

The current PACI online service for Kuwaiti photo updates specifically displays fields for Civil Number, Serial Number and Mobile Number.

For the non-Kuwaiti photo-update process, PACI also requires the relevant Civil ID and verification information.

Step 4: Verify Your Mobile Number

After entering the required information, PACI may send a verification code to your registered or provided mobile number.

Enter the verification code when requested.

The official PACI photo-update service indicates that SMS verification is part of the online process.

Step 5: Complete the Application

After successful verification, continue with the application.

Depending on the applicant category, you may need to:

Confirm your personal information
Select or enter additional information
Select your blood group where required
Upload supporting documents
Upload your new personal photograph

For the current non-Kuwaiti photo-update process, PACI’s service information requires the relevant documents and photograph.

Step 6: Upload Your New Photo

Upload a recent personal photograph that complies with PACI’s requirements.

Make sure that the photograph is:

Clear
Recent
In color
Properly framed
Suitable for official identification
Free from unnecessary obstructions
Uploaded in an accepted file format

Do not upload a blurry, heavily edited or poor-quality photograph.

Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload the documents requested by PACI for your category.

The required documents can vary.

For example, PACI currently lists the following for non-Kuwaiti photo updates:

Valid passport
Recent personal photograph meeting the specifications
Embassy letter in certain cases where the photograph differs from the passport and the applicant has reached the applicable age threshold

Step 8: Review the Information

Before submitting the application, carefully check all information and uploaded documents.

Make sure:

Your Civil ID number is correct
Your serial number is correct
Your mobile number is correct
Your photograph is the correct file
Your passport copy is clear
All required documents are attached

Incorrect or unclear information can cause delays or rejection.

Step 9: Submit the Application

Once everything is correct, submit the application.

The PACI online system will process the request.

Keep the confirmation or transaction information provided after submission.

Step 10: Track Your Request

After submitting the application, keep the transaction or tracking information.

This can help you follow up on the status of your photo-update request.

The source procedure also indicates that a confirmation message can provide a tracking ID for checking the request status.

Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update for Kuwaiti Citizens

Kuwaiti citizens have a dedicated PACI service for updating their Civil ID photograph.

PACI currently states that Kuwaiti citizens can access the photo-update service through the Sahel application or the electronic services available on the PACI website.

Documents Required for Kuwaiti Citizens

PACI currently lists requirements that can include:

Valid official proof of nationality
Recent personal photograph meeting the required specifications
Recent passport or nationality proof with photograph for certain age groups
Additional identification documents where applicable

For applicants under 18, PACI specifies additional requirements involving a valid passport or proof of nationality, depending on age.

Kuwaiti Civil ID Photo Update Fee

The current PACI service information lists a fee of:

KD 5

The fee is payable through the PACI website or the Sahel application.

Because government fees and procedures can change, always verify the amount shown on the official PACI service before payment.

Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update for Non-Kuwaiti Residents

Expatriates living in Kuwait can also apply to update their Civil ID photograph through the dedicated PACI service.

PACI currently provides an online service specifically titled “Update Photo for Non-Kuwaiti Individual.”

Step-by-Step Process for Expatriates

Follow these general steps:

Open the official PACI website.
Select the non-Kuwaiti photo-update service.
Enter your Civil ID number.
Enter the required serial number.
Enter your mobile number.
Complete mobile verification.
Continue to the application.
Enter the requested information.
Upload your recent personal photograph.
Upload your valid passport copy.
Upload any additional document required by PACI.
Review your information.
Submit the application.
Save your confirmation or tracking information.

The exact fields displayed by PACI may change as the electronic service is updated.

Documents Required for Non-Kuwaiti Civil ID Photo Update

According to the current PACI service information, non-Kuwaiti applicants should prepare:

1. Valid Passport

A valid passport is required.

Make sure the passport copy you upload is clear and readable.

2. Recent Personal Photograph

You need a recent personal photograph that meets PACI’s specifications.

3. Embassy Letter in Certain Cases

PACI states that an embassy letter may be required for applicants who have reached five years of age when the photograph differs from the photograph shown in the passport.

Because individual circumstances can differ, check the official PACI service requirements before submitting your application.

Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update for GCC Nationals

PACI also provides a dedicated photo-update service for GCC nationals.

The service can apply to GCC nationals who meet certain conditions in Kuwait, including circumstances involving family relationships, employment, education, business or property ownership.

PACI currently lists supporting documents that can include:

Valid original passport or national identity card
Recent personal photograph
Embassy letter where the photograph differs from the passport
Fingerprint notification for applicable applicants
Signature authorization and work-related documents for certain private-sector workers
Proof of continued employment for certain government employees
Educational institution documentation for applicable students

The exact documents required depend on the applicant’s circumstances.

Kuwait Civil ID Photo Specifications

One of the most important parts of the application is submitting a photograph that meets the required specifications.

The source article describes the Civil ID photograph as:

4 × 6 cm
Blue background
Recent and clear
Full-face view
Directly facing the camera
Neutral expression
No sunglasses
No unnecessary headwear
No uniforms except where permitted
JPEG, JPG or PNG format
File size of up to 2 MB for the online submission

However, photo requirements can be updated by PACI, so applicants should check the current requirements displayed by PACI before submitting the photograph.

How Should a Kuwait Civil ID Photo Look?

Your Civil ID photograph should be suitable for official identification.

For the best chance of acceptance:

Face the camera directly.
Keep your face clearly visible.
Use a plain background.
Avoid blurry images.
Use a recent photograph.
Avoid sunglasses.
Avoid unnecessary accessories.
Do not heavily edit the photograph.
Make sure the photograph has sufficient resolution.
Make sure the uploaded file is within the permitted size.

The goal is to make sure your face can be clearly identified.

Can I Wear Glasses in a Kuwait Civil ID Photo?

The source information recommends avoiding eyeglasses and specifically mentions that sunglasses should not be worn.

For the safest submission, use a photograph without sunglasses or other items that obstruct facial identification.

If you have a specific medical or religious requirement, check the latest PACI photo requirements before submitting your application.

Can I Wear a Head Cover in My Civil ID Photo?

PACI’s photo requirements allow religious headwear in applicable circumstances.

However, the face should remain clearly visible.

If you are unsure whether a particular head covering meets the current requirements, check PACI’s latest photo specifications before submitting the photograph.

What Background Is Required for a Kuwait Civil ID Photo?

The source article specifies a plain blue background.

When preparing your photograph, use a clean and uniform background without objects, patterns or other people.

A professional photo studio can be useful if you are unsure how to prepare a photograph that meets official identification requirements.

What File Format Is Accepted for Online Photo Update?

The current PACI online service indicates that uploaded files can use formats including:

JPG
JPEG
PNG
PDF for supporting documents where applicable

The PACI online service currently shows a maximum upload size of 2 MB for the relevant uploaded files.

Before uploading, check the current service page because technical requirements can change.

Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Fee

The current PACI photo-update service lists a fee of:

KD 5

PACI’s official service information for Kuwaiti citizens lists KD 5, and the non-Kuwaiti photo-update service also lists KD 5.

For GCC nationals, PACI also currently lists a KD 5 service fee.

Important Note About the Fee

Government fees can change.

Always check the amount displayed on the official PACI website or Sahel application at the time you submit your request.

Can I Update My Civil ID Photo Through Sahel?

Yes.

PACI’s current information states that certain photo-update services can be accessed through the Sahel application.

For example, the Kuwaiti citizen photo-update service can be accessed through Sahel or PACI electronic services.

The availability of a specific transaction through Sahel can depend on the applicant category and current government service configuration.

Can I Update My Civil ID Photo in Person?

PACI provides electronic photo-update services, but applicants may also have circumstances where an in-person visit is required or appropriate.

If your online application cannot be completed, if your documents require additional verification, or if PACI specifically asks you to attend, follow the instructions provided by PACI.

Do not visit a center unnecessarily if your transaction can be completed online.

How Long Does Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Take?

Processing time can vary depending on the application, documents and PACI processing.

The source article states that photo updates may take up to approximately ten days to appear on the Civil ID.

However, applicants should not treat ten days as a guaranteed processing time.

If PACI provides a specific expected processing period or status through your transaction, follow that information.

How Can I Track My Civil ID Photo Update Request?

After submitting your application, keep the confirmation or tracking information provided by PACI.

You can use the relevant PACI electronic services to check the status of your transaction where tracking is available.

If your application remains pending for longer than expected, check the transaction status first and then contact PACI through its official channels if necessary.

Will the Updated Photo Appear in Kuwait Mobile ID?

Once PACI processes the new photograph and updates your Civil ID information, the updated information can subsequently appear in the Kuwait Mobile ID system.

However, the digital record may not update immediately.

If your physical Civil ID and Mobile ID show different photographs after a successful update, allow time for the systems to synchronize and check the transaction status.

Why Should You Update Your Civil ID Photo?

Keeping your Civil ID photograph reasonably current can make identification and verification easier.

A photo update may be particularly useful when:

Your appearance has changed significantly.
Your current photo is very old.
Your photo does not clearly resemble you.
Your passport has a significantly different recent photograph.
PACI requests an updated photograph.
You need to complete an official transaction requiring current identification.

A clear and recognizable Civil ID photograph can reduce confusion during identity verification.

What Happens If My Civil ID Photo Is Rejected?

If PACI rejects your photograph or application, first check the reason provided.

Common problems can include:

Poor image quality
Incorrect background
Photograph not meeting the required dimensions
Face not clearly visible
Incorrect file format
File size exceeding the permitted limit
Missing documents
Unclear passport copy
Photograph not matching the required documentation

Correct the problem and follow PACI’s instructions for resubmission where available.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Before submitting your Civil ID photo update application, avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake 1: Uploading an Old Photograph

Use a recent photograph rather than reusing an old image.

Mistake 2: Using a Busy Background

Avoid backgrounds containing furniture, people, patterns or other objects.

Mistake 3: Uploading a Blurry Image

Your photograph should be sharp and clear.

Mistake 4: Using an Incorrect File Format

Check the accepted file formats before uploading.

Mistake 5: Exceeding the File Size

Make sure your image meets the maximum file-size requirement displayed by PACI.

Mistake 6: Uploading an Unclear Passport Copy

For expatriates, the passport copy should be clear enough for PACI to read the information.

Mistake 7: Entering Incorrect Civil ID Details

Double-check your Civil ID number, serial number and mobile number.

Mistake 8: Ignoring the Confirmation

After submitting the application, save the confirmation or tracking information.

Quick Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update Process

If you only need the short version, follow these steps:

Open the official PACI electronic services website.
Select the appropriate Civil ID photo-update service.
Choose the service for Kuwaiti, non-Kuwaiti or GCC applicant as applicable.
Enter your Civil ID number.
Enter your serial number.
Enter your mobile number.
Complete SMS verification.
Enter the requested information.
Select additional information such as blood group if required.
Upload your recent photograph.
Upload the required supporting documents.
Review everything carefully.
Pay the applicable fee.
Submit the application.
Save the confirmation or tracking information.
Check the application status when necessary.

Official PACI Civil ID Photo Update Links

Kuwaiti Citizen Photo Update

Official PACI service:

https://services.paci.gov.kw/cr/kuwaiti/photo?lang=en

Non-Kuwaiti Photo Update

Official PACI service:

https://services.paci.gov.kw/applications-guide/detail/change-%2F-add-a-photo-%28non-kuwaiti%29/19

GCC National Photo Update

Official PACI service:

https://services.paci.gov.kw/applications-guide/detail/change-%2F-add-a-photo-%28gcc-nationals%29/13

PACI Electronic Services

https://services.paci.gov.kw/

Always use the official PACI website when submitting Civil ID information or uploading personal documents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kuwait Civil ID Photo Update

Can I update my Kuwait Civil ID photo online?

Yes. PACI provides electronic services for updating Civil ID photographs for eligible Kuwaiti citizens, non-Kuwaiti residents and GCC nationals.

How can I change my Civil ID photo in Kuwait?

Open the official PACI electronic services website, select the appropriate photo-update service, enter your identification details, verify your mobile number, upload the required photograph and documents, pay the applicable fee and submit the application.

Can expatriates change their Kuwait Civil ID photo?

Yes. PACI provides a dedicated photo-update service for non-Kuwaiti residents.

What documents are required for an expatriate Civil ID photo update?

PACI currently lists a valid passport and a recent personal photograph that meets the required specifications. An embassy letter may also be required in certain cases.

How much does Kuwait Civil ID photo update cost?

The current PACI service information lists a fee of KD 5 for the photo-update service.

What is the Civil ID photo size in Kuwait?

The source information specifies a 4 × 6 cm photograph. Applicants should always check PACI’s current requirements before submitting.

What background is required for a Kuwait Civil ID photo?

The source information specifies a plain blue background.

Can I upload my Civil ID photo online?

Yes. PACI provides an electronic service that allows applicants to upload the required photograph and supporting documents.

What photo formats are accepted by PACI?

The current online PACI service displays JPG, JPEG and PNG among the accepted image formats. It also displays PDF for applicable uploaded documents.

What is the maximum photo file size?

The current PACI online service displays a maximum size of 2 MB for uploaded files.

Can I update my Civil ID photo through Sahel?

Yes, PACI states that certain photo-update services can be accessed through the Sahel application.

Do I need my passport to update my Civil ID photo?

For non-Kuwaiti residents, PACI currently lists a valid passport among the required documents.

Can GCC nationals update their Civil ID photo?

Yes. PACI provides a dedicated photo-update service for eligible GCC nationals in Kuwait.

Can I update my Civil ID photo if my appearance has changed?

Yes. Updating the photograph can be useful when your appearance has changed significantly or your existing photograph is outdated.

How long does it take to update a Civil ID photo?

Processing time can vary. The source article states that an update may take up to approximately ten days, but applicants should follow the processing information provided by PACI for their specific transaction.

How can I track my Civil ID photo update?

Keep the confirmation or tracking information provided after submitting your application and use the relevant PACI service to check the transaction status.

Will my new photo appear in Kuwait Mobile ID?

Once PACI processes the updated photograph, the new image can subsequently be reflected in Kuwait Mobile ID. There may be some delay while the digital records update.

What happens if my Civil ID photo is rejected?

Check the reason for rejection, correct the photograph or missing documentation and follow PACI’s instructions for resubmission or further action.

Can I update my Civil ID photo without visiting PACI?

For eligible transactions, PACI provides online photo-update services, so a visit may not be necessary. However, PACI may require an in-person visit in certain cases.

Is it safe to upload my Civil ID and passport information online?

Only upload sensitive personal documents through official Kuwait government websites or official government applications such as PACI services and Sahel.

Avoid entering your Civil ID or passport information on unofficial websites.

Updating your Kuwait Civil ID photo is easier than many people expect because PACI provides electronic services for eligible applicants.

Whether you are a Kuwaiti citizen, expatriate or GCC national, the first step is to select the correct PACI photo-update service for your category.

Prepare a recent photograph that follows the required specifications, make sure your passport and other supporting documents are clear, complete the mobile verification process and carefully review your application before submitting it.

The current PACI service information lists a KD 5 fee for the photo-update service, but government fees and procedures can change, so always confirm the latest information before making a payment.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use the official PACI electronic services website rather than relying on old instructions from social media or unofficial websites.

Official PACI Website:

https://services.paci.gov.kw/

Kuwait Government Online:

https://e.gov.kw/

Kuwait Mobile ID:

https://hawyti.paci.gov.kw/English/Home.aspx

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