To facilitate the process, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced that until 31 December 2026, eligible first time applicants can get the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) without offering a computerized birth certificate issued by the Local Government.
The exercise is intended to cater to those who do not belong to Pakistan’s national identity registration process due to various reasons including lack of a computerised birth certificate.
Around 1.7% of Adults Still Without CNICs
The population of Pakistan is already registered under national identity system with around 1.7% remaining unregistered, a review said on Sunday, according to NADRA.
Documentation is reported to be more of a problem for women and in less well covered districts. Some citizens who are eligible for a CNIC have been identified as having one of the biggest challenges which is the lack of a computerized birth certificate.
Decision Based on Ten-Year Registration Analysis
NADRA conducted a comprehensive study of registration data for ten years to prepare Annual Report 2025, in collaboration with various national institutions and stakeholders.
The review analyzed the demographic trends as well as district-level differences and gender gaps to gain insight into why certain citizens did not register within the national identity system.
The federal interior minister ordered the implementation of a framework for facilitation. The project was then approved by the Authority Board of the NADRA.
CNIC Can Be Issued Without Computerized Birth Certificate
The new arrangement allows first time applicants who meet the requirements to get a CNIC without having to provide a computerized birth certificate.
But applicants will still need to go through rigorous documentation and verification process. The procedure involves biometric verification of the registered immediate family members for identity and family relationship.
Requirements for Married Women
Married women aged 18 years and above applying under the facilitation mechanism must provide:
- A Local Government-issued Nikah Nama
- A valid CNIC or NICOP of either parent
- A valid CNIC or NICOP of the husband
- Biometric verification of one parent
- Biometric verification of the husband
Requirements for Unmarried Women
For unmarried women aged 18 years and above, the husband’s documentation and biometric verification requirements do not apply.
Applicants will need to provide:
- A valid CNIC or NICOP of either parent
- Biometric verification of one parent
Requirements for Male Applicants Above 24
Male applicants above 24 years of age will also be able to apply under the new mechanism, subject to additional family verification requirements.
The applicant must have:
- A parent holding a valid CNIC or NICOP
- At least one sibling holding a valid CNIC or NICOP
- Biometric verification of one parent
Normal Non-Smart CNIC Will Be Issued Free
NADRA has claimed that regular CNICs will be given under this facilitation mechanism free of charge.
This temporary measure will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2026.
Important Warning for Applicants
NADRA has cautioned applicants to ensure that all information provided during registration is accurate.
The data, which includes the information about an applicant’s parentage, date of birth and place of birth, will be entered into the National Identity System and are permanent and cannot be changed.
Interested candidates are thus reminded to review carefully their details and submit authentic documents and family information in the verification process.
The new facilitation of NADRA is hoped to facilitate eligible citizens who have been unable to get their first CNIC because they do not have computerized birth certificate.
The program is designed to increase the number of people registered and verify their identities through biometric data and family information, ensuring the security and accuracy of the national identity database. The facility is available for the eligible first time applicants till 31st December 2026.
