How to Apply for a New CNIC in Pakistan: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
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Applying for your first Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is a major milestone in every Pakistani’s life. Whether you’ve just turned 18 or never had a CNIC before, this guide will walk you through every step — clearly, accurately, and with helpful insights specific to Pakistan’s system.
From what documents you need to where to go, how long it takes, and how to avoid common mistakes, we’ve broken down the process in a way that’s both useful and trustworthy.
What is a CNIC and Why Does It Matter?
A CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is the official identity document issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) to Pakistani citizens aged 18 and above.
You need a CNIC to:
- Vote in elections
- Open a bank account
- Apply for a passport or visa
- Buy or sell property
- Get a job, register for university, or claim government benefits
It’s your legal proof of citizenship, and without it, many basic services in Pakistan become difficult or impossible to access.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a New CNIC?
You can apply for a CNIC if:
- You are a Pakistani citizen
- You are 18 years old or above
- You have a Child Registration Certificate (CRC) or Form-B from NADRA
If you’re unsure whether your documents qualify, NADRA staff can guide you — or visit a NADRA Registration Center (NRC) in your city like Awami Markaz Karachi, Blue Area Islamabad, or Township Lahore, where customer service is generally helpful.
Required Documents for New CNIC Application
Before visiting a NADRA center, make sure you have the following:
Mandatory Documents
- Original Matriculation Certificate or Birth Certificate
- Father’s or Mother’s CNIC (original + copy)
- Your Form-B (if available)
- Guardian’s CNIC (if you’re applying under guardianship)
💡 Tip: In cities like Faisalabad or Multan, where larger families often live together, applicants sometimes bring multiple family members to help verify identity. This is acceptable but not required.
How to Apply for a New CNIC – Step-by-Step
🏢 Step 1: Visit Your Nearest NADRA Registration Center
Locate the closest NRC using NADRA’s official center locator. Most centers now operate under queue/token systems, and some allow online appointment booking to reduce wait times — especially helpful in busy cities like Karachi and Lahore.
📄 Step 2: Submit Documents
Hand over your required documents to the front desk. The officer will review and prepare them for data entry.
📸 Step 3: Token Issuance, Photo, and Biometric Scans
Once you receive a token number, wait for your turn:
- Your photograph will be taken
- Your digital fingerprints and electronic signature will be collected
⌨️ Step 4: Data Entry by NADRA Officer
A data entry officer will input your personal details. Pay close attention here:
- Check spellings of your name, parents’ names, address, and date of birth
- Request corrections immediately if something looks wrong
🧬 Step 5: Biometric Verification
NADRA will match your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) against its database. This ensures no duplication and validates your identity.
📝 Step 6: Final Review & Signature
You’ll be handed a printed form showing your submitted data. Double-check everything. Once satisfied:
- Sign the document
- Your request will be officially submitted
💰 Step 7: Fee Payment
Depending on your urgency, choose from the following options:
| Type | Fee (PKR) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 400 | ~30 working days |
| Urgent | 1,150 | ~15 working days |
| Executive | 2,150 | ~7 working days |
✅ Note: In areas like Peshawar or Quetta, urgent processing may take slightly longer due to postal delays.
Can You Apply for a CNIC Online?
Yes, if you want to avoid long queues, especially in high-traffic cities, or are living abroad, you can use NADRA’s Pak-Identity online service:
🔗 https://id.nadra.gov.pk
You’ll need:
- Scanned documents (Matric certificate, parent CNIC, etc.)
- A digital photo
- A credit/debit card to pay the fee
This service is especially helpful for Pakistanis living in the UK, UAE, or Saudi Arabia who need their CNICs delivered internationally.
How Will You Receive Your CNIC?
Once your CNIC is ready, NADRA will send you an SMS on your registered mobile number. You can then:
- Pick it up from the same registration center, or
- Have it delivered to your home (if you opted for that during registration)
Key Tips for a Smooth CNIC Application
- ✅ Always carry original documents
- ✅ Keep a copy of your receipt or token number
- ✅ Double-check spellings and personal data before final submission
- ❌ Don’t rely on agents or middlemen — NADRA’s system is designed to be self-service and transparent
Common Issues and How to Handle Them
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Name or DOB error on CNIC | Request correction during the review step |
| Lost your CNIC before delivery | Visit the NADRA center with receipt for reissuance |
| Rejection due to missing docs | Bring additional proof (e.g., school ID, utility bills) and reapply |
| Online application not processing | Clear browser cache or try another device/browser before retrying |
Final Thoughts
Getting your CNIC is more than just receiving an ID card — it’s your gateway to your rights and responsibilities as a Pakistani citizen. Whether you’re opening your first bank account, applying for university, or preparing to vote, it all starts with this one document.
Don’t delay once you turn 18. The process is straightforward, whether you’re in Rawalpindi, Sialkot, or a remote village in Chitral — NADRA has centers across the country ready to assist.
For more trusted how-to guides, updates, and tips tailored to your everyday life in Pakistan, keep visiting Jini News.
