CNIC Renewal in Pakistan: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

June 3, 2025 Jannat Shayyan

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In Pakistan, your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is more than just an ID — it’s the key to essential services like voting, banking, SIM card registration, and even traveling within the country. But what happens when your CNIC is about to expire?

Many Pakistanis delay the renewal process due to confusion or misinformation. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about CNIC renewal in 2025, both online and offline — in a simple, practical, and locally relevant way.

Why Renewing Your CNIC Matters

Your CNIC is a national identity document issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority). If it expires, you can run into serious difficulties:

Banks may freeze your account or reject transactions.
You won’t be able to vote in general or local body elections.
Job applications in both government and private sectors may be rejected.
Mobile networks may block or deactivate your SIMs.
You may face travel restrictions, even for domestic flights or hotel bookings.

For instance, in Lahore, several individuals reported being denied vehicle registration renewals due to expired CNICs. Similarly, Karachi-based job seekers have missed out on interviews simply because they didn’t have a valid CNIC.

Who Can Renew Their CNIC?

Any Pakistani citizen who already has a CNIC and is 18 years or older is eligible for renewal. Whether your CNIC has expired or is about to expire within the next few months, you can apply for renewal through NADRA.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Your CNIC in Pakistan

1. Visit the Nearest NADRA Registration Center (NRC)

Start by visiting your local NADRA center. NADRA has offices in nearly every city and tehsil, including remote areas like Gilgit, Khuzdar, and Dera Ghazi Khan.

👉 Tip: Use NADRA’s Center Locator to find the nearest office.

2. Get a Token

Upon arrival, take a token number at the reception. Your token determines your turn in the queue, so try to visit early, especially during peak times (10 AM to 2 PM).

3. Biometric Verification

A NADRA officer will:

Take your fingerprints
Capture a live photograph
Record your digital signature

4. Update or Confirm Personal Details

You will be asked to verify or update key details such as:

Full name (as per Matric certificate, if needed)
Father’s or husband’s name
Current and permanent address
Contact number and emergency contact

In Peshawar, many residents choose this step to update tribal affiliations or merge previously separate family records.

5. Choose Your Service Type and Pay the Fee

Service Type	Fee (PKR)	Processing Time
Normal	400	30 working days
Urgent	1,150	15 working days
Executive	2,150	7 working days

💡 Note: Always confirm the latest fee at your NADRA center. Prices may vary slightly depending on your city or area.

Payment is accepted via cash or card at most NADRA centers.

6. Receive Your Application Receipt

After submission, you’ll be given a receipt with a tracking number. This is essential for checking your CNIC’s status.

7. Track Your CNIC Application Status

You can track your renewal request using:

SMS: Send your 12-digit tracking ID to 8400
Online: Visit the NADRA Tracking Portal

How to Renew Your CNIC Online (For Pakistanis With Existing Biometrics)

Don’t want to stand in line? NADRA offers online CNIC renewal — ideal for overseas Pakistanis or busy professionals.

Online CNIC Renewal Process

✅ Step 1: Visit NADRA’s Online Portal

Go to: https://id.nadra.gov.pk

✅ Step 2: Create or Log Into Your Account

✅ Step 3: Select “CNIC Renewal”

From the dashboard, choose the Renewal option under CNIC services.

✅ Step 4: Fill in the Application Form

Enter your details. The system may auto-fill some fields based on your existing CNIC record.

✅ Step 5: Upload Documents

You may need to upload:

Scanned copy of your expired CNIC
Passport-sized photo (if recent biometric is not available)

✅ Step 6: Pay Online

Payment can be made through:

Credit or Debit Card (Visa/Mastercard)
NADRA e-Sahulat kiosks in major cities

✅ Step 7: Submit and Wait

Once submitted, NADRA will verify your details. If all checks out, your renewed CNIC will be delivered to your home.

📌 Important: Your fingerprints and photo must already exist in NADRA’s biometric system for the online method to work.

What If I Lost My CNIC Before Expiry?

If your CNIC is lost or stolen before the expiry date, you will have to apply for a CNIC Reprint, not a renewal. This process is similar but may require an FIR (First Information Report) in case of suspected misuse.

FAQs About CNIC Renewal in Pakistan

✅ Can I renew my CNIC before it expires?

Yes, you can start the renewal process up to 6 months before expiry.

✅ Can someone else apply on my behalf?

No. The CNIC holder must be present for biometric verification unless applying online with existing biometrics.

✅ Is online CNIC renewal available for overseas Pakistanis?

Yes, NADRA’s online portal is specifically convenient for overseas Pakistanis. Your CNIC can be delivered to your address abroad via Pak Post or courier.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay — Renew Your CNIC on Time

Your CNIC is your identity in Pakistan. Letting it expire can create unnecessary hurdles — from missed job opportunities to blocked financial services.

The good news? NADRA has made the renewal process straightforward, both online and offline. Whether you’re in Rawalpindi, Multan, or living abroad in Dubai, renewing your CNIC is now just a few steps away.

👉 Need Help?
Visit your nearest NADRA center or check official updates on: https://www.nadra.gov.pk

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