The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has explained the procedure for changing a name on a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), outlining the required documents, application steps and processing fees.
According to NADRA, applicants must submit a request along with the Computerised Birth Registration Certificate issued by the relevant Union Council, Municipal Committee or Cantonment Board. The certificate must be verified, and applicants must provide its CRMS number.
In cases involving a change of religion, applicants must also provide a certificate issued by a Dar-ul-Ifta, NADRA said.
The authority clarified that a person can change their name on their CNIC only once in their lifetime, except for women seeking a name change after marriage. Applicants do not need to bring photocopies of documents issued by NADRA or the Union Council; they only need to provide the relevant document numbers.
Steps to change your name on a CNIC
Applicants must follow these steps at a NADRA registration centre:
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Get a token: Obtain a token upon arrival at the registration centre.
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Biometric verification: Complete the required biometric verification.
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Data entry: Provide the correct personal details, fingerprints and photograph.
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Application approval: NADRA will review the application. Applicants do not need attestation of the application form for a CNIC modification.
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Pay the fee: After approval, applicants will receive a confirmation message on their registered mobile number. They can then pay the fee at a NADRA office or online, as applicable.
NADRA CNIC name change fees and delivery times
NADRA has listed the following fees and processing times for the three categories:
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Executive: Rs2,500, with delivery within seven days.
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Urgent: Rs1,500, with delivery within 15 days.
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Normal: Rs750, with delivery within 30 days.
Applicants can collect their updated CNIC from the same NADRA office after the relevant processing period, according to the selected category.
