NADRA Issues Advisory for CNIC Applicants in Pakistan. The National Database and Registration Authority has issued an important advisory for all citizens who have applied for a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
This update affects how long uncollected CNICs remain available at NADRA offices and introduces easier digital options to receive your card without repeated visits.
If you or a family member have recently applied for a CNIC, this guidance is critical.
CNIC Collection Deadline Explained
Under NADRA’s updated policy, CNICs must be collected within three months of the assigned delivery date.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
- CNICs not collected within three months will be permanently discarded
- Applicants will need to apply again from scratch
- Fresh fees will be charged for reapplication
- Processing time will restart from zero
This rule applies to:
- New CNIC applications
- CNIC renewals
- CNIC modifications or updates
NADRA has advised citizens to track their application status and collect cards promptly to avoid delays and extra costs.
Why NADRA Introduced This Policy
NADRA offices handle millions of identity cards every year. Unclaimed CNICs create:
- Storage issues
- Administrative backlogs
- Delays for new applicants
By enforcing a clear collection timeline, NADRA aims to improve service efficiency and reduce congestion at registration centers across Pakistan.
Use Pak-ID App to Avoid Office Visits
To make the process easier, NADRA is encouraging citizens to use the Pak-ID mobile application.
Benefits of using Pak-ID
- Apply for CNIC online
- Track application status in real time
- Complete biometric verification remotely
- Reduce physical visits to NADRA offices
The app is available for Android and iOS users and is especially helpful for overseas Pakistanis and elderly applicants.
Home Delivery Option for CNIC
Applicants can also select home delivery while submitting their CNIC application.
Why choose home delivery?
- CNIC delivered directly to your address
- No need to revisit NADRA centers
- Ideal for busy professionals and senior citizens
This option minimizes the risk of missing the three-month collection deadline.
New Fingerprint Verification for Passport Applications
In a related development, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, in collaboration with NADRA, has introduced a digital fingerprint confirmation system for passport applicants.
This update simplifies biometric verification and reduces dependency on in-person visits.
How to Verify Fingerprints Using Pak-ID for Passport
Applicants can now confirm fingerprints anytime, anywhere through the Pak-ID app.
Step-by-step process
- Visit the official online passport application portal
- Start a new passport application
- Reach the fingerprint verification step
- Open the Pak-ID mobile app
- Select “Online Passport”
- Enter your Passport Tracking ID and CNIC number
- Complete biometric verification
If fingerprint verification fails
- Use the facial recognition feature within the app
- Continue the application without visiting an office
This system is especially helpful for applicants living in remote areas or abroad.
Key Advice for CNIC and Passport Applicants
- Always collect your CNIC within three months
- Enable home delivery when possible
- Install and use the Pak-ID mobile app
- Regularly track application status
- Complete biometric steps promptly to avoid rejection
Conclusion
NADRA latest advisory is a clear reminder for CNIC applicants to act on time. Uncollected identity cards will no longer remain stored indefinitely, making timely collection essential.
At the same time, digital solutions like the Pak-ID app and online biometric verification are making CNIC and passport services faster, safer, and more accessible across Pakistan.
