The federal government has revised the National Identity Card Rules, 2002 and the Pakistan Origin Card Rules, 2002 in a move aimed at bringing Pakistan’s identity system in line with modern digital needs.
A notification issued on Tuesday introduces several changes, including the formal use of QR codes on identity cards, stronger authentication controls, wider use of biometric data and updated card formats for different groups of citizens.
According to a handout released by the National Database and Registration Authority, commonly known as NADRA, one of the most important changes is the legal recognition of the QR code as a security feature on identity documents.
A QR code is a machine-readable, two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a pattern of lines and dots. When scanned, it converts that data into readable details. Under the amended rules, QR codes are now defined as a secure tool for identity verification.
QR codes to replace microchips
The new rules allow NADRA to use QR codes or any other technological feature instead of the microchips currently embedded in some cards. At present, there are two types of national identity cards in circulation, one with a chip and one without. The revised framework is expected to remove this difference and allow citizens to carry a similar card format.
Officials say this step will make it easier to upgrade technology in the future without having to amend the rules repeatedly.
The QR-based system is also linked to Pakistan’s wider Digital ID ecosystem. It is designed to work with the National Data Exchange Layer, which allows different government departments to securely share and verify information.
With QR-enabled cards, identity details can be checked quickly at service counters, while back-end systems can confirm authenticity and status through secure digital exchanges. Authorities believe this will improve speed and consistency in identity checks, cut down on paperwork and reduce the risk of fraud and impersonation.
Stronger suspension and biometric controls
The amendments also tighten the impact of card suspension. The rules now clearly state that if a card is suspended, all verification and authentication services linked to it will be halted immediately. This means a suspended card cannot be used through digital systems or institutional checks.
Biometric features have also been strengthened. The updated rules explicitly recognise fingerprints and iris scans, signalling a broader and more modern biometric foundation for identity verification.
Relief for senior citizens
In a move aimed at easing difficulties for older citizens, the amendments introduce lifetime validity for people aged sixty years and above. Resident and non-resident citizens in this age group will receive a card carrying a distinct senior citizen logo, and it will not require renewal.
This is expected to reduce the burden of repeated visits and paperwork for elderly citizens.
The rules also introduce a standard inscription for residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring their cards clearly state “Resident of Azad Jammu and Kashmir” for uniform identification.
In addition, specimen formats for several categories have been updated. These include cards for resident citizens, overseas Pakistanis, children, persons with disabilities, organ donors and combined categories. The new designs incorporate QR codes and improved security layouts.
Overall, the changes mark a significant shift towards a more secure and digitally connected identity system, with the government aiming to make verification faster, safer and more reliable for millions of citizens.
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