Daijiworld Media Network - Kuwait

Kuwait, Jan 12: In a major relief for new parents, Kuwaiti authorities have officially extended the deadline for registering newborns in the national Civil Information System to 120 days from the date of birth. The move is aimed at easing the administrative burden on families during the initial months after childbirth.

The decision was announced by Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, who also chairs the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). Under the revised ministerial order, children born within Kuwait can now be registered within four months, replacing the earlier, shorter timeframe.

Officials said the amendment reflects the practical challenges faced by families in completing legal formalities while adjusting to newborn care. The extension is expected to help ensure accurate documentation without compelling parents to rush through procedures during a sensitive period.

While the deadline for newborn registration has been relaxed, authorities clarified that existing timelines for other categories remain unchanged. Kuwaiti citizens are required to register within 30 days of returning to the country, GCC nationals within 30 days of arrival, and expatriates within 30 days of obtaining their residency permit.

The Ministry of Interior has, however, reiterated that non-compliance with registration rules will invite strict penalties. Failure to add a child to official nationality or civil records can attract fines ranging between KD 2,000 and KD 3,000. In certain cases, settlements may be allowed by paying KD 100 along with KD 5 for each day of delay, subject to a maximum cap of KD 2,000.

Authorities stressed that timely registration is critical to safeguarding a child’s rights and national identity, as a Civil ID is essential for accessing healthcare, education and other public services.

The extension forms part of Kuwait’s broader digital-first initiative to streamline government services. Parents have been encouraged to use the Sahel app and other online platforms to track applications and ensure all required documents, including attested marriage certificates and passports, are submitted well within the new 120-day window.