NADRA Issues Advisory for CNIC Applicants in Pakistan. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued an important advisory for citizens applying for a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). The authority has urged applicants to collect their CNICs on time to avoid cancellation and extra costs.
This update affects thousands of people who apply for new CNICs, renewals, or modifications every year.
CNICs Must Be Collected Within Three Months
According to NADRA’s updated policy, CNICs must be collected within three months from the assigned delivery date.
If a CNIC is not collected within this period:
- The card will be permanently discarded
- The applicant will need to apply again
- New fees will be charged
- Previous processing time and payment will not be adjusted
NADRA has clarified that this rule applies to all CNIC categories, including new registrations, renewals, and updates.
Use Pak-ID App or Home Delivery to Avoid Delays
To reduce overcrowding at NADRA offices and help citizens receive their cards easily, NADRA has encouraged applicants to use digital options.
Citizens can now:
- Track CNIC status using the Pak-ID app
- Apply for home delivery of CNICs
- Receive CNICs directly without visiting offices repeatedly
These options are especially helpful for senior citizens, overseas Pakistanis, and people living far from NADRA centers.
New Fingerprint Confirmation System for Passports
In a related development, NADRA and the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports have introduced a new digital fingerprint verification system for passport applicants.
Key features include:
- Fingerprint confirmation through the Pak-ID app
- Verification available anytime and anywhere
- Facial recognition option if fingerprint verification fails
This update aims to speed up passport processing and reduce manual verification issues.
How to Verify Biometrics for Passport Applications
Applicants applying for a new passport can now complete biometric verification online by following these steps:
- Visit the official passport online portal
- Proceed to the fingerprint verification stage
- Log in to the Pak-ID app
- Select “Online Passport”
- Enter your passport tracking ID and CNIC number
- Complete fingerprint or facial recognition verification
Once verified, the passport application continues without visiting an office for biometrics.
Why This Advisory Matters
Failing to collect a CNIC on time can lead to:
- Loss of application fees
- Delays in banking, travel, SIM registration, and government services
- Problems with passport issuance and official verification
NADRA’s advisory is aimed at reducing these issues and promoting digital, citizen-friendly services.
Conlusion
NADRA has made it clear that timely CNIC collection is now mandatory. Citizens are strongly advised to track their CNIC status, collect cards within the given timeframe, or choose home delivery through the Pak-ID app.
