The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced an important initiative to facilitate citizens who lack birth certificates allowing them to obtain a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) under specific conditions.
According to NADRA the conditional facility for first-time registration will remain effective until December 31, 2026.
Under this arrangement applicants’ identities will be verified through alternative methods instead of a birth certificate.
For married women aged 18 years or above possession of a Nikahnama will be mandatory. Additionally the CNICs of the father or mother and husband must already be issued along with their biometric verification. These conditions will not apply to unmarried women.
In the case of men aged 24 years or above the CNICs of either parent and at least one sibling must be available.
Biometric verification of at least one parent will be mandatory. If both parents and the husband are deceased but records exist in NADRA’s system biometric verification may be exempted.
NADRA further stated that a non-smart CNIC will be issued free of cost for first-time applicants under this facility. Citizens have been advised to ensure the accuracy of their information at the time of registration as changes in parentage, date of birth or place of birth will not be permitted later.
The facility has been devised on the directives of the Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control approved by the NADRA Authority Board and implemented under the NADRA Ordinance and CNIC Rules and Regulations.
Big update by NADRA for overseas Pakistanis
In separate development the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has provided a new facility to Pakistanis residing in the UAE.
In a social media message, NADRA stated that the NADRA Mobile Registration Team, along with the team of the Pakistan Consulate, will reach Ras Al Khaimah.
Pakistani citizens residing in Ras Al Khaimah can easily obtain new identity documents, make changes or renewals, and get modifications done.
In the state of Ras Al Khaimah, on Sunday, 15 February 2026, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, citizens can approach the Mobile Registration Team at Pakistan Center Ras Al Khaimah.
Also read: Big update by NADRA for overseas Pakistanis
