NADRA Launches Major CNIC Upgrades

NADRA Launches Major CNIC Upgrades: QR Technology and Relaxed Birth Certificate Rule

ISLAMABAD – The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced significant new features for the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), including cutting-edge QR code technology and a temporary relaxation of the birth certificate requirement, marking a major step toward digital identity modernization.

In a landmark reform published in the Gazette on February 24, the government officially replaced chip-enabled and non-chip cards with a uniform National Identity Card featuring Quick Response (QR) code technology. This machine-readable barcode enables instant offline and online verification, reducing fraud risks and accelerating service delivery across banking, telecom, and government sectors .

The amendments also introduce lifetime-validity cards for citizens aged 60 and above, and formally recognize iris scans alongside fingerprints as biometric authentication methods .

Separately, NADRA announced a time-bound facility until December 31, 2026, allowing first-time applicants to obtain CNICs without presenting a computerized birth certificate. The reform addresses the 1.7% registration gap among adults—particularly women in districts with low civil documentation .

Under strict conditions, married women can apply using a verified marriage certificate and biometric verification of parents and husband. Unmarried women require parental biometrics, while men above 24 need a registered parent and sibling . First-time cards are free under the normal 15-day category .

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed the reforms following data analysis with the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics and Election Commission .

News Source Links:

• Pakistan Observer: QR-based ID card announcement

• The Express Tribune: Birth certificate relaxation