Biometrics Pending for 530,000 Expats in Kuwait. As Kuwait advances its security and digital identity measures, the Ministry of Interior has called on expatriates who have not yet completed their biometric registration to do so before the impending deadline of December 31.
This critical update comes amid efforts to enhance security and streamline government services, with the ministry reiterating that failure to comply will lead to significant restrictions, including the suspension of government and banking transactions.
Current Status of the Biometric Registration Process
Since the launch of the biometric fingerprinting initiative last year, the process has seen extensive participation. Here’s an overview of the current progress and remaining registrations:
Biometric Registration Status |
Numbers |
Expats who have not completed registration |
530,000 |
Residents who have completed registration |
2.1 million |
Total registered since program launch |
Over 3.03 million |
According to the Ministry of Interior, around 530,000 expats still need to complete their biometric fingerprinting, while approximately 2.1 million have already complied.
These statistics highlight the significance of the biometric program, which aims to improve the safety and organization of government services for Kuwait’s diverse resident population.
Importance of Meeting the Biometric Registration Deadline
The Ministry has emphasized the need for timely compliance, as expatriates who fail to register by the December 31 deadline will face serious consequences.
Government transactions, such as residency renewals, will be automatically suspended. Moreover, essential services, including banking and other government-related transactions, will be inaccessible for non-compliant expatriates.
A security source confirmed that these restrictions are crucial to ensure a complete biometric database, which will facilitate smoother transactions and enhance security measures across Kuwait.
The Ministry aims to ensure both citizens and expatriates benefit from more secure and efficient government services.
How to Register for Biometrics in Kuwait
The Ministry of Interior has made the biometric registration process accessible through two primary platforms to accommodate residents across the country:
- Sahel App: A user-friendly government service application that allows residents to book their biometric registration appointments conveniently.
- Meta Platform: An alternative online platform for booking appointments, accessible to all residents with active internet access.
Biometric Registration Centers in Kuwait
To simplify the biometric process, Kuwait has designated various security directorates and fingerprint centers across all six governorates. The following are specific locations for completing biometric registration:
Governorate |
Designated Centers |
General Population |
Security Directorates across all governorates |
Companies |
Specialized centers in Umm Al-Hayman and Jahra |
All residents are encouraged to schedule appointments at these centers for timely processing. Designated centers for companies at Umm Al-Hayman and Jahra further facilitate businesses in ensuring their employees meet the biometric requirements.
Ministry’s Efforts to Ensure Smooth Biometric Registration
The Ministry of Interior has put significant effort into establishing a well-coordinated biometric registration process. The use of digital platforms, such as Sahel and Meta, helps streamline appointments and avoids overcrowding.
Additionally, the ministry has strategically placed centers in each governorate to make the process more accessible.
Consequences for Failing to Register
Non-compliance with the biometric registration requirement will have substantial repercussions:
- Suspension of Government Transactions: All government transactions, including residency renewals, will be halted for expatriates who miss the deadline.
- Restricted Banking Transactions: Financial transactions will also be affected, making it challenging for non-compliant residents to access banking services.
- Limited Access to Public Services: Access to several public services may be limited, impacting the daily lives of residents.
Key Takeaways for Expats in Kuwait
With the December 31 deadline drawing near, it is imperative for all expats who have not yet completed their biometric registration to act promptly.
By using the Sahel app or the Meta platform, expatriates can secure appointments at their convenience. Delaying this essential process risks disrupting their legal status and access to services in Kuwait.
Conclusion
The biometric registration initiative represents Kuwait’s commitment to creating a secure, efficient, and digitally connected environment for its residents.
By meeting this requirement, expatriates can help Kuwait build a safer society while ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services.