21-04-2025
Kuwait Approves Use Of DNA And Biometrics Testing In Citizenship Decisions
The Kuwaiti government has issued a new ministerial resolution authorising the use of advanced scientific methods—including DNA and biometric analysis — in decisions related to the granting, revocation, confirmation, or withdrawal of Kuwaiti citizenship.
Ministerial Resolution No. 678 of 2025, issued by Sheikh Fahad Al Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, outlines a regulatory framework aimed at enhancing the accuracy and integrity of citizenship procedures through modern technology.
According to local media, the resolution includes the following key provisions: Scientific verification tools: The use of DNA testing and biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans will be permitted to determine eligibility for Kuwaiti nationality.
The use of DNA testing and biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans will be permitted to determine eligibility for Kuwaiti nationality. Mandatory testing : Individuals under review will be required to undergo genetic and biometric testing at centres designated and certified by the Ministry of Interior.
Individuals under review will be required to undergo genetic and biometric testing at centres designated and certified by the Ministry of Interior. Data confidentiality : All personal and genetic data must be treated with the utmost confidentiality. The testing process must be meticulously documented at each stage.
All personal and genetic data must be treated with the utmost confidentiality. The testing process must be meticulously documented at each stage. Legal safeguards: Tests must be conducted by qualified professionals who have no personal or familial relationship with the individual concerned. Results will be assessed jointly by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Nationality Department, and final recommendations will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality
Tests must be conducted by qualified professionals who have no personal or familial relationship with the individual concerned. Results will be assessed jointly by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Nationality Department, and final recommendations will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality Permissible biological samples: DNA samples may be collected from a variety of sources, including blood, saliva, hair, bone, and urine, among others.
DNA samples may be collected from a variety of sources, including blood, saliva, hair, bone, and urine, among others. Oversight and supervision:The Ministry of Interior is authorised to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to ensure the implementation of proper procedures and scientific integrity.
The resolution will come into effect upon its publication in the official gazette.
Officials say the move reflects Kuwait's commitment to transparency, accuracy, and legal due process in matters of national identity.
