Islamabad, Jan 10: Expatriates in Kuwait who missed the December 31 deadline for mandatory biometric fingerprinting are now facing significant restrictions, including a ban on leaving the country, according to security officials. This move is part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to establish a robust database of residents and enhance national security.
The government introduced the biometric registration initiative to prevent identity fraud and dual citizenship. It is mandatory for all residents aged 18 and above.
Non-compliance has led to severe consequences for expatriates, including suspension of government and banking services.
They are also barred from re-entering or exiting Kuwait until they complete the fingerprinting process.
The initiative’s deadline for Kuwaiti citizens passed on September 30, while expatriates were granted an extension until December 31.
Despite this, 181,718 expatriates remain unregistered, while 3.5 million residents have successfully completed the process.
Talal Al Khalidi, an officer with the Interior Ministry’s General Department of Criminal Evidence, highlighted the importance of compliance and reassured the public about the availability of resources.
Kuwait operates eight fingerprinting centers that collectively handle up to 10,000 appointments daily. The process, which takes less than three minutes, requires individuals to schedule their appointments through a designated app. Authorities are urging all expatriates to comply promptly to avoid further disruptions to their daily lives.
With expatriates making up 3.3 million of Kuwait’s 4.9 million population, the government underscores the biometric initiative’s role in improving national security and preventing fraudulent activities. Officials have reiterated that these measures are critical for safeguarding the country’s legal and administrative systems.
Failure to comply not only restricts expatriates’ mobility but also disrupts essential services, creating a pressing need for immediate action. By completing the biometric registration, residents can regain access to crucial services and ensure their stay in Kuwait remains uninterrupted.
This initiative reflects Kuwait’s commitment to maintaining a secure and well-regulated residency system, reinforcing the necessity for all residents to adhere to its regulations. The government’s firm stance highlights the importance of aligning with national policies to prevent complications and uphold societal stability.
