The Kuwaiti government has introduced a new ministerial resolution that allows the use of advanced scientific techniques, such as DNA and biometric analysis, in matters related to the granting, confirmation, revocation, 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, sets out a comprehensive regulatory framework to improve the accuracy and credibility of citizenship decisions through modern technology.
According to local media reports, the resolution includes the following key elements:
Scientific Verification Methods
The resolution permits the use of DNA testing and biometric identifiers such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans to determine an individual’s eligibility for Kuwaiti nationality.
Mandatory Testing Requirement
Individuals undergoing nationality verification must submit to genetic and biometric testing at Ministry of Interior-certified facilities.
Confidentiality of Personal Data
All genetic and biometric information must be handled with strict confidentiality, with detailed documentation required at every stage of the testing process.
Legal and Ethical Safeguards
All tests must be conducted by certified professionals who have no personal or familial ties to the individual in question. The results will be jointly reviewed by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Nationality Department, with final recommendations submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality.
Approved DNA Sample Sources
Biological samples for DNA testing may include blood, saliva, hair, bone, urine, and other acceptable sources.
Monitoring and Collaboration
The Ministry of Interior will oversee the procedures and may collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities to ensure scientific and procedural integrity.
The resolution will take effect upon publication in the official gazette.
Government officials have emphasized that the initiative demonstrates Kuwait’s dedication to transparency, accuracy, and due legal process in managing citizenship and national identity matters.