Spokesperson says the facility for first-time registration will remain effective until December 2026
ISLAMABAD
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced an important facilitative measure for citizens who have been unable to obtain a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) due to the non-availability of a birth certificate.
Under the new arrangement, first-time CNIC registration without a birth certificate will be allowed on a conditional basis until December 31, 2026. NADRA will verify the applicant’s identity through alternative mechanisms in accordance with applicable rules.
As per the policy details, married women aged 18 years or above must possess a valid Nikahnama. In such cases, the CNICs of the father or mother and the husband must already exist in NADRA’s records, and biometric verification of the parents and husband will be mandatory. These conditions related to the husband will not apply to unmarried women.
For men aged 24 years or above, the CNICs of either the father or mother and at least one sibling must be available in NADRA’s system. Biometric verification of at least one parent will be required.
In cases where both parents and the husband are deceased but their records exist in NADRA’s database, relaxation in biometric verification may be granted.
NADRA has also announced that the first-time issuance of a non-smart CNIC under this facility will be free of cost.
Citizens have been advised to ensure the accuracy of their information at the time of registration, as changes in parentage, date of birth, and place of birth will not be allowed later.
The facility has been introduced on the instructions of the Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control and has been formally approved by the NADRA Authority Board. Officials confirmed that the measure has been implemented strictly under the provisions of the NADRA Ordinance and CNIC Rules and Regulations.
