Latest news with #CivilID
Arab Times
20-05-2025
- Arab Times
Expat Refuses To Fall For Passport Officer Impersonation Scam
KUWAIT CITY, May 20: An expatriate in Kuwait narrowly avoided falling victim to a sophisticated phone scam on Tuesday morning. At around 10 a.m., he received a call from a number beginning with 3455. The caller claimed to be a passport officer and requested his date of birth, Civil ID number, and the names of the banks he deals with. Believing the caller represented the Ministry of Interior, the expat initially complied. The caller then proceeded to list the first four digits of the expat's bank card and asked him to complete the remaining numbers. At that moment, the expat recalled similar scams he had read about in the Arab Times news and refused to continue. He told the caller that any further communication should come through an official summons—either from a police station or via the 'Sahel' government platform—before ending the call. Shortly after, he received another call from a number beginning with 3456. This time, the caller claimed to be a higher-ranking officer and reprimanded the expat for not cooperating. When the expat again refused to share more information, the caller threatened him with a KD 500 fine. The expat stood firm, stating he would rather pay the fine than risk handing over sensitive bank details, and ended the call. When later asked if he had been fined, the expat confirmed that no penalty had been issued. A security source confirmed that this was a clear case of attempted fraud, using tactics often employed by scammers targeting expats online. He clarified that the numbers used do not exist within Kuwait's official telecom network. The Ministry of Interior, he emphasized, never requests bank information from citizens or residents over the phone, and any banking updates should only be handled in person at one's bank branch. He urged the public to ignore and report such calls.
Arab Times
03-05-2025
- General
- Arab Times
Can't Get an Appointment for Your Civil ID Address Change? Here's How to Secure One
In our previous article, we provided a step-by-step guide on how to change your Civil ID address. If you're currently trying to update your civil address in Kuwait but can't secure an appointment through the Meta portal, you're not alone. Many expats encounter the same challenge, as appointment slots fill up quickly—particularly in high-demand areas. But don't worry. Here are some practical alternatives and tips that can help you get through the process: 1. Try Using the 'Sahel' App The Sahel government app is often more responsive and may display appointment slots that don't appear on the Meta platform. Once logged in, navigate to: Services → Public Authority for Civil Information → Appointment Booking Make sure your mobile ID is active to access the full range of services. 2. Try Early Morning Slot Refresh (12:00 AM – 2:00 AM) PACI frequently releases new slots after midnight, and they fill up quickly. Here's what to do: Set an alarm and check both Meta and Sahel around 12:30 AM – 1:30 AM. Use multiple devices (e.g., a phone and a laptop) to increase your chances. Refresh frequently and act fast if a slot opens up. 3. Use a Typing/Service Office (Maktab Khidmat) Authorized service offices or typing centers sometimes have backend access to appointment systems or priority booking slots. They may charge a fee, but if you're stuck, it can be a useful route—especially for urgent cases. Search online or ask locally for PACI-approved service providers in your area. 4. Try Another PACI Branch If your local branch (like South Surra or Jahra) is appointments show full, try nearby areas which are generally less crowded branches such as: Ahmadi Mubarak Al-Kabeer Farwaniya (in some cases) Note: You can book appointments in any PACI branch regardless of your residential area, depending on the service type. 5. Contact Meta Support via Phone If online booking is not working at all, calling support might help: 164 – Unified Government Services Call Center (can redirect you to Meta or PACI). 1800164 – Direct Meta platform support line. Best time to call: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (shorter wait times) Tip on Calling : When calling, clearly explain your issue: 'All PACI appointment slots are full on Meta and Sahel – is there a manual or emergency booking option available?' 6. Reach Out to Meta Support by Email You can also email Meta support directly at: Email: [email protected] Use this email to: Report ongoing issues with booking Ask about the appointment release schedule Request assistance or escalation for time-sensitive matters Final Tip Stay persistent. Keep checking at off-peak hours and consider all alternative options listed above. With a bit of timing and flexibility, you can usually secure an appointment without too much delay.
Arab Times
29-04-2025
- General
- Arab Times
Kuwait Civil ID Address Change Made Simple: What You Need to Know
Changing the address on your Civil ID in Kuwait is a straightforward process, but it requires proper documentation and a scheduled appointment. Whether you're relocating to a new residence or updating your details for official purposes, following the correct steps ensures a smooth experience. This guide outlines how to book your appointment through the PACI website or Sahel App, what documents you'll need, and what to expect during your visit to the PACI office—all the way through to collecting your updated Civil ID. How to Change Residence Address on Your Civil ID 1. Book an Appointment Option 1: PACI Website - Visit [ ] - Click on Appointment Booking → you will be redirected to [ ] - Log in using your Civil ID number and password. (In case you don't remember your password, click on forgot password) - Go to Appointments → select The Public Authority for Civil Information. - Under Service Categories, choose Tenants > Persons Services. - Select Change of Address → click Apply. - Confirm and book your appointment. Option 2: Sahel App - Open the Sahel App. - Tap Appointment Booking (bottom button next to notifications). - Select The Public Authority for Civil Information. - Choose Person's Services and your preferred branch. 2. Prepare Required Documents - Current Civil ID (original + copy) - Passport (original + copy) - Recent colored photos - Rental agreement of the apartment/building - Recent electricity bill - If staying with someone else: * No-Objection Letter (NOC) from the leaseholder * Copy of leaseholder's Civil ID - Photo of your apartment's PACI number plate - Recent rent receipt 3. Visit the PACI Office - Show your appointment confirmation (printed or on the Sahel App). - Submit all documents. - Fill out the address change form (staff may issue a new envelope if needed). - Pay the 5 KD fee after approval for a new Civil ID. 4. Collect Your Updated Civil ID - Wait for SMS notification. - Collect the new Civil ID from the PACI self-service machine. Important Notes - No walk-ins allowed — appointment is mandatory. - Ensure all documents are current and accurate.
Time of India
28-04-2025
- Time of India
Kuwait visit visa: Step-by-step guide for parents and relatives
The Ministry of Interior (MOI), Kuwait has issued an official notice for visit visas for expatriates to bring their parents and other relatives into the country. This process, aimed at facilitating parents and relatives to visit the country, requires expatriates to meet specific eligibility criteria, submit necessary documents, and follow a set procedure. Here's a step-by-step guide to help navigate the application process for family visit visas. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack India stares at a 'water bomb' threat as it freezes Indus Treaty India readies short, mid & long-term Indus River plans Shehbaz Sharif calls India's stand "worn-out narrative" Eligibility Criteria To sponsor a visit visa for parents or relatives, expatriates must meet certain requirements. For sponsoring parents, the sponsor should have a minimum monthly salary of KWD 400. For other relatives, the salary requirement rises to KWD 800. Additionally, the sponsor must be employed and provide proof of employment status. Documentation proving the relationship between the sponsor and the visitors is also mandatory. Required Documents Applicants will need to provide several documents when applying for a visit visa. These include valid passport copies of both the sponsor and the family members being sponsored. The sponsor must also submit a copy of their Civil ID and a recent salary certificate from their employer. Medical insurance for the visitors, covering the duration of their stay in Kuwait, is a requirement. Proof of round-trip flight tickets and accommodation arrangements must also be provided. An affidavit confirming the relationship between the sponsor and the visitors, attested by the relevant authorities, is another key document in the application process. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Wife won't let go of dog, husband finds out why and calls police - watch! Happy in Shape Undo Application Process The application process for a family visit visa involves a series of steps. First, the sponsor must schedule an appointment through the Ministry of Interior's official website. After the appointment, applicants need to gather all required documents and submit them to the relevant residency affairs department. The sponsor must also pay the applicable visa fees of KWD 3. Once the application is submitted, the sponsor will need to wait for approval from the relevant authorities. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Important Conditions There are several important conditions that both the sponsor and the visitors must adhere to. The visit visa is typically valid for one month, and visitors must leave the country before the visa expires. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to convert their visit visa into a residency permit. They will also only be able to receive medical treatment in private hospitals and health centers. Overstaying the visa will result in fines and other legal penalties. Live Events You Might Also Like: Why you should think twice before travelling to the US Individuals wishing to bring their parents or relatives to Kuwait on a visit visa should ensure they meet all the requirements and follow the proper procedure. Citizens of 53 countries and GCC countries including Belgium, Hong Kong, South Korea, Ukraine are eligible for a tourist visa on arrival in Kuwait. The main requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return ticket, and details of their residential address in Kuwait. Applying for an e-visa online is recommended to avoid potential complications. You Might Also Like: Why and how much it will be costlier to fly to Dubai and Western countries from India
Arab Times
21-04-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
What Happens to Your Bank Account in Kuwait When Your Residency Expires?
KUWAIT CITY, April 21: Expatriates' access to their bank accounts is directly linked to the validity of their residence, which serves as proof of legal residency. Once an individual's residency is cancelled or expires, most banks will freeze or restrict access to their bank accounts. This means that ATM withdrawals, online banking services, and even credit card usage may be suspended until the residency status is updated. While some banks may allow limited access or 3 months access or set reduced withdrawal limits shortly after the Civil ID expires, these policies vary and are not uniformly applied across all financial institutions. To restore full banking privileges, expatriates must renew their residency and update their Civil ID details with their bank. The reasoning behind this policy is straightforward: bank accounts are issued based on an individual's legal status as a resident of Kuwait. When residency lapses, the account holder is no longer considered legally present in the country, prompting banks to suspend all account activity, including the ability to withdraw salaries or make deposits. This rule also extends to Bedoun (stateless) residents, who face similar account restrictions once their residency permits expire. Notably, these restrictions apply regardless of whether the residency recently expired or has been invalid for some time. To avoid disruptions in access to funds and financial services, expatriates are strongly advised to ensure their residency status remains valid and up to date at all times.
