Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued new instructions on correcting dates of birth in official records.
Court order required for date of birth changes
In a recent clarification, NADRA said that any correction or change to the date of birth recorded on a birth certificate in Punjab can only be made through a court order.
Under the rules of the Government of Punjab, a competent court must issue directions to the relevant Union Council, Cantonment Board or Municipal Corporation before a birth record can be altered.
NADRA said it will process requests to change the date of birth on documents such as the Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), NICOP, Child Registration Certificate or Juvenile Card only when applicants provide a formal court order along with a verified computerized birth registration certificate.
The authority stated that this requirement is mandatory under the law. It added that citizens can seek guidance through its helpline 1777 or by email csd@nadra.gov.pk.
The policy applies to cases based on computerized birth registration certificates issued in Punjab.
CNIC facility for those without birth certificates
Separately, NADRA has introduced a temporary facility allowing certain citizens to obtain a CNIC even if they do not have a birth certificate.
The facility, which applies to first-time applicants, will remain in place until December 31, 2026.
Under this arrangement, identity will be verified through alternative methods.
For married women aged 18 or above, a Nikahnama will be required.
The CNICs of their father or mother and husband must already be issued and verified biometrically. These conditions do not apply to unmarried women.
For men aged 24 or above, the CNICs of either parent and at least one sibling must be available. At least one parent must undergo biometric verification.
If parents or a husband are deceased but their records exist in NADRA’s system, biometric verification may be waived.
NADRA said first-time applicants under this scheme will receive a non-smart CNIC free of charge.
It also advised applicants to ensure their details are correct at the time of registration, as changes to parentage, date of birth or place of birth will not be allowed later.
The authority said the initiative has been approved under existing legal provisions and aims to facilitate citizens who face difficulties in obtaining birth certificates.
Also Read: NADRA Records: How many Pakistanis are registered?
