This guide is written in simple English, includes Pakistan-specific examples, and covers both online and offline methods.

1. What is CNIC?

CNIC stands for Computerized National Identity Card. It is issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) to Pakistani citizens who are 18 years or older.

A CNIC is the most important identity document in Pakistan. It proves:

• Your identity

• Your citizenship

• Your age

• Your family record

Without a CNIC, you cannot access most government or financial services.

Why CNIC is important in Pakistan

You need CNIC to:

• Open a bank account

• Get a SIM card

• Apply for passport

• Vote in elections

• Buy or sell property

• Apply for jobs

• Receive government benefits (BISP, Ehsaas, etc.)

• Get a driving license

In short, CNIC is essential for daily life in Pakistan.

2. Who Can Apply for CNIC?

You can apply for CNIC if:

Eligible Persons

• You are a Pakistani citizen

• You are 18 years old or above

• You have a B-Form / CRC (if born in Pakistan)

• Or you have a Pakistani citizenship certificate (if applicable)

Types of CNIC Applications

• New CNIC (First time after age 18)

• Renewal (Expired CNIC)

• Modification (Name, father name, marital status, etc.)

• Duplicate CNIC (Lost or damaged)

• CNIC Cancellation (In case of death)

This guide mainly focuses on new CNIC application, but the steps are similar for other types.

3. Documents Required for CNIC

The required documents may vary slightly, but generally you need:

For New CNIC (Age 18+)

1. B-Form / CRC (Issued by NADRA)

2. Father’s or Mother’s CNIC (Original or copy)

3. One family member as verifier (with CNIC)

4. Birth certificate (sometimes required)

5. Educational document (optional but helpful)

For Married Women

• Nikahnama (Marriage Certificate)

• Husband’s CNIC copy

For Lost CNIC (Duplicate)

• Police report (for lost card)

• CNIC number (if available)

👉 Tip: Always carry original documents. NADRA may reject photocopies alone.

4. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for CNIC

Here is the complete step-by-step process for applying CNIC in Pakistan:

Step 1: Decide Application Type

Choose whether you are applying for:

• New CNIC

• Renewal

• Modification

• Duplicate

This affects fees and processing time.

Step 2: Choose Service Category

NADRA offers three service levels:

👉 Example:
If you urgently need CNIC for a passport, choose Urgent or Executive.

Step 3: Visit NADRA Registration Center (NRC) OR Apply Online

You can apply:

• Offline by visiting a NADRA center

• Online using Pak-Identity Portal

(Online method explained separately below)

Step 4: Token & Data Entry

At NADRA center:

• Take a token number

• Wait for your turn

• Your personal information will be entered into the system

Step 5: Biometric Verification

NADRA staff will:

• Take fingerprints

• Take a photograph

• Capture digital signature

This step is mandatory.

Step 6: Family Verification

A blood relative (father, mother, sibling) may need to:

• Verify your information

• Give biometric confirmation

Step 7: Review & Confirmation

• Carefully check all details

• Verify name spelling, date of birth, address

• Sign the confirmation form

⚠️ Mistakes at this stage cause serious problems later.

Step 8: Receive Tracking Slip

You will receive:

• Tracking ID

• Estimated delivery date

Keep this slip safe.

Step 9: CNIC Collection

You will receive CNIC via:

• Courier to your address

• Or SMS notification for collection

5. Online Method (Pak-Identity Portal)

NADRA allows online CNIC applications through:

Pak-Identity Portal

Website: pakidentity.nadra.gov.pk

Who Can Apply Online?

• Adults with B-Form

• CNIC renewal

• CNIC modification

• Overseas Pakistanis

• Some new applicants (limited cases)

Step-by-Step Online Process

Step 1: Create Account

• Visit Pak-Identity website

• Create an account using email & password

Step 2: Select CNIC Application

• Choose application type

• Select service category

Step 3: Upload Documents

• Upload scanned documents

• Upload photograph (white background)

Step 4: Biometric Verification

• Use NADRA-approved mobile app

• Or visit biometric verification center

Step 5: Pay Fee Online

Payment methods:

• Debit/Credit card

• Online banking

Step 6: Track Application

• Track status online

• Receive CNIC via courier

👉 Example:
Overseas Pakistanis commonly use online method to avoid visiting centers.

6. Offline Method (NADRA Registration Centers)

Where to Apply Offline?

• NADRA Registration Centers (NRC)

• NADRA Mega Centers

• Executive NADRA Centers

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning (8–9 AM)

• Avoid Mondays & weekends

Steps (Offline)

1. Visit nearest NADRA center

2. Take token

3. Data entry

4. Biometric verification

5. Document verification

6. Confirmation

7. Receive receipt

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many CNIC applications get delayed due to small mistakes.

Avoid These Errors:

1. Wrong spelling of name

2. Incorrect date of birth

3. Mismatch with B-Form

4. Wrong marital status

5. Unverified family record

6. Blurry online uploads

7. Using expired documents

👉 Important:
Once CNIC is issued, corrections are time-consuming and costly.

8. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How long does CNIC take to arrive?

• Normal: ~30 days

• Urgent: ~15 days

• Executive: ~7 days

Q2: Can I apply CNIC without B-Form?

Usually no. B-Form is required for new CNIC.
In special cases, NADRA may allow alternative verification.

Q3: Is CNIC free?

No. CNIC has processing fees, which depend on service type.

Q4: Can students apply for CNIC?

Yes, if they are 18 or above, even if unemployed.

Q5: What if my fingerprints don’t match?

NADRA may:

• Use facial verification

• Request additional family verification

Q6: Can I track CNIC online?

Yes. Use:

• NADRA tracking portal

• SMS service with tracking ID

9. Conclusion

Applying for a CNIC in Pakistan in 2026 is easier than before due to online systems and improved NADRA services. However, accuracy is extremely important.

Key Takeaways:

• CNIC is essential for daily life

• Keep documents complete and correct

• Choose service category wisely

• Double-check all information

• Use online method if eligible

If you follow this step-by-step guide carefully, you can get your CNIC without delays or problems.