Kuwait implements mandatory Biometric Fingerprinting

Kuwait: The General Administration of Security Relations and Media declares mandatory fingerprinting for all citizens and residents, following a crucial update from Kuwait's Ministry of Interior. Starting from March 1, 2024, individuals have a three-month window until June 1, to undergo this process.

The Ministry of Interior has set up dedicated centres across the country for fingerprinting, operational at all border crossings, Kuwait International Airport and designated commercial complexes. Kuwaitis, citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and residents can undergo biometric fingerprinting at these locations. Failure in the registration within the ultimatum will lead to the suspension of all transactions with the Ministry of Interior.

While travellers are exempted from immediate fingerprinting upon departure from Kuwait, it becomes mandatory upon their return.

The centralised biometric system is a pivotal step in Kuwait’s strategy to enhance security and efficiency across various sectors. Citizens and residents are strongly encouraged to adhere to the registration timeline to avoid any disruptions to their transactions and facilitate a seamless transition to the new framework.

Enrolment centres equipped with biometric scanners have been established at shopping malls and airports to facilitate fingerprint capture for citizens and residents.

The specified venues for biometric fingerprinting are as follows:

1. Hawalli Security Directorate in Hawalli Governorate
2. Farwaniya Security Directorate in Farwaniya Governorate
3. Al Ahmadi Security Directorate in Al-Ahmadi Governorate
4. Mubarak Al Kabeer Security Directorate in Mubarak Al-Kabeer Governorate
5. Al Jahra Security Directorate in Al-Jahra Governorate (for citizens and citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries)
6. Personality Investigation Department, Corporate Fingerprinting, in the Ali Sabah Al Salem area
7. Identity Investigation Department fingerprints companies in the Jahra area (for residents)
8. Designated commercial complexes: Avenues Mall, 360 Mall, Al Kout Mall, Capital Mall, and Ministries Complex

Source: Khaleej Times