The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced a new national identity card that does not use a chip, according to reports on Friday.
How does the new NADRA ID card work?
The QR code will allow people to verify the card using a normal smartphone. The new card can also be checked through the Pak ID mobile app by scanning the QR code.
The QR code will contain the card holder’s identity details and photograph. It is also expected to reduce mistakes when entering information such as the name and address.
NADRA will provide QR code verification software to authorised organisations. These will include telecom companies, banks, hospitals, Pakistan Railways, police and other relevant institutions.
The new card will also show the family number. It will have special marks for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, organ donors and citizens of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The card holder’s name and address will be printed in both Urdu and English.
What will the new card look like?
NADRA’s new QR-based cards: Will old ID cards be abolished?
With the announcement of the issuance of the new CNIC, the question is arising in the minds of Pakistani citizens whether all the previously issued NADRA CNICs will expire after the issuance of the new card.
In this regard, NADRA has clarified that despite the issuance of the new CNIC without a chip, the previously issued CNICs will not expire but will continue to be valid until their due date.
Why has a new ID card been introduced?
The new card is part of NADRA’s move towards using locally made technology. It has been produced in Pakistan using polycarbonate material. Instead of an imported microchip, the card will have a secure QR code.
When will it get implemented?
The new QR code based card is being introduced in phases from August 14. It will gradually replace the existing chip-free smart identity card.
From January 2027, the new QR code based card will also be issued for all types of national identity cards. This will include NICOP and Juvenile Cards.
In the final phase, the Pakistan Origin Card will also be replaced with the new chip-free QR code based card.
NADRA announces ATM-style self-service kiosks
Previously, modern ATM-style NADRA ‘self-service kiosks’ were introduced to help citizens save time and avoid long queues at NADRA centres.
What can citizens do with these machines?
With these automated machines, citizens can now complete several ID-related services themselves without going to a counter or waiting for their turn.
Through the new kiosks, citizens can renew their identity cards and NICOPs. They can also get replacement cards for lost or damaged identity cards, cancel documents and obtain Family Registration Certificates within minutes.