The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced an enhanced version of its chipless Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), bringing new features and broader accessibility at a more affordable cost. The upgrade aims to bridge the digital divide by offering citizens several digital functionalities that were previously exclusive to chip-based Smart NICs.
The new chipless CNIC now comes with bilingual information in both English and Urdu, ensuring consistency with Pakistani passports and other official documents. A significant addition is the inclusion of a QR code, which enables users to access their digital identity through the Pak ID mobile app, bringing the card closer in utility to its chip-based counterpart.
For organ donors, the upgraded CNIC offers a unique symbol denoting donor status, coupled with lifetime validity. Similarly, individuals with disabilities will benefit from distinct identity markers on their cards and enjoy lifetime validity, enhancing recognition and inclusion.
The new card is now available for citizens seeking renewal, data modification, or replacement in case of loss. The revised fee structure is as follows:
Normal: Rs400 (31-day delivery)
Urgent: Rs1,150 (15-day delivery)
Executive: Rs2,150 (9-day delivery)
First-time applicants aged 18: Free under the normal category
In a related update, NADRA has also adjusted the fees for its Smart CNICs for the year 2025. The new pricing is Rs750 for normal processing, Rs1,500 for urgent, and Rs2,500 for executive service.
These changes are part of NADRA’s wider digital transformation strategy aimed at modernising national ID infrastructure and supporting Pakistan’s broader shift toward digital governance.