CNIC Application Process at NADRA Registration Center (2026 Guide)
This guide is written in simple English, uses Pakistan-specific examples, and explains everything you need to know about applying for a CNIC through a NADRA Registration Center (NRC).
1. What Is the CNIC Application Process at NADRA Registration Center?
The CNIC application process at a NADRA Registration Center (NRC) is the offline method of applying for a Computerized National Identity Card by physically visiting a NADRA office.
This method is best for:
First-time CNIC applicants
People who are not comfortable with online systems
Applicants with fingerprint or verification issues
Citizens living in Pakistan
At the NADRA center, your personal data, fingerprints, photograph, and signature are collected and verified on the spot.
2. Who Can Use This Method?
You can apply for CNIC at a NADRA Registration Center if:
Eligible Applicants
You are a Pakistani citizen
You are 18 years or older
You need:
New CNIC
CNIC renewal
CNIC modification
Duplicate CNIC (lost/damaged)
This Method Is Best For:
First-time applicants after turning 18
Women updating marital status
People from rural areas
Senior citizens
Applicants whose online applications were rejected
👉 Example:
Ali turns 18 in Multan and does not have internet access. He can visit the nearest NADRA Registration Center to apply for his first CNIC.
3. Documents Required for CNIC at NADRA Center
You must carry original documents. Photocopies alone are not accepted.
For New CNIC (First Time)
B-Form / Child Registration Certificate (CRC)
Father’s or Mother’s CNIC
One blood relative as verifier (with CNIC)
Birth certificate (if required)
Educational certificate (optional)
For Married Women
Nikahnama (Marriage Certificate)
Husband’s CNIC
For Duplicate CNIC
Police report (if CNIC is lost)
Old CNIC number (if available)
For CNIC Modification
Supporting document (court order, nikahnama, etc.)
⚠️ Important:
All information must match NADRA records, especially names and dates.
4. Step-by-Step CNIC Application Process at NADRA Registration Center
Below is the complete offline procedure, explained step by step.
Step 1: Find Your Nearest NADRA Registration Center
You can apply at:
NADRA Registration Center (NRC)
NADRA Mega Center
Executive NADRA Center
👉 Tip:
Mega centers in cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad remain open longer and are less crowded.
Step 2: Visit the Center Early
Best time to visit:
Between 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Avoid Mondays, public holidays, and month-end
👉 Example:
If you visit at 7:30 AM in Rawalpindi, you can finish the process before noon.
Step 3: Get a Token Number
At the entrance:
Tell staff you want to apply for CNIC
Receive a token slip
Token shows:
Token number
Counter number
Wait for your number to be called.
Step 4: Data Entry at Registration Counter
At the counter, NADRA staff will:
Enter your personal details:
Full name
Father/Mother name
Date of birth
Address
Marital status
Your documents will be scanned and verified.
⚠️ Check spellings carefully at this stage.
Step 5: Biometric Verification
This is a mandatory step.
NADRA will take:
Fingerprints (all fingers)
Digital photograph
Digital signature
👉 If fingerprints are unclear (elderly or labor workers), NADRA may use:
Facial recognition
Family biometric verification
Step 6: Family Verification
A blood relative (father, mother, brother, sister) may need to:
Verify your information
Give biometric confirmation
👉 Example:
If Ahmed applies for CNIC, his father may be asked to verify his record.
Step 7: Review and Confirmation
You will be shown a printed form or screen summary.
Check carefully:
Name spelling
CNIC numbers of parents
Date of birth
Permanent & present address
Once confirmed, sign the form.
⚠️ Mistakes after this step are difficult to correct.
Step 8: Choose CNIC Service Category
You will select one of the following:
| Service Type | Processing Time | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 30 days | Low |
| Urgent | 15 days | Medium |
| Executive | 7 days | High |
👉 Choose Urgent if CNIC is needed for passport or job.
Step 9: Fee Payment
Pay fee at NADRA counter
Receive payment receipt
Keep it safe
Step 10: Receive Tracking Slip
You will get:
Application tracking number
Estimated delivery date
You can track your CNIC using:
NADRA SMS service
NADRA tracking website
Step 11: CNIC Delivery
CNIC is delivered via:
Courier to your home address
Or SMS notification for collection
Delivery usually takes:
Normal: ~30 days
Urgent: ~15 days
Executive: ~7 days
5. Online Method – Is It Available for NRC Applicants?
Although this guide focuses on NADRA Registration Centers, NADRA also offers an online system.
When Online Method Is NOT Suitable
First-time applicants with issues
Fingerprint mismatch
Family record problems
When NRC Is Better Than Online
Faster verification
On-site help
Immediate corrections
👉 Many people start online but later visit NRC to complete verification.
6. Offline Method Summary (Quick Overview)
CNIC at NADRA Center – Quick Steps
Visit NRC
Take token
Data entry
Biometric verification
Family verification
Confirm details
Pay fee
Receive tracking slip
Get CNIC via courier
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid at NADRA Centers
Avoid these common errors to prevent delays:
Going without original documents
Wrong spelling of names
Mismatch with B-Form
Choosing wrong marital status
Not bringing a verifier
Ignoring confirmation screen
Losing tracking slip
👉 Pro Tip:
Always take one extra family member as backup verifier.
8. FAQs – CNIC Application at NADRA Registration Center
Q1: Can I apply CNIC without appointment?
Yes. Most NADRA centers operate on walk-in basis.
Q2: Can women apply CNIC alone?
Yes, but for marital updates, nikahnama is required.
Q3: What if my fingerprints fail?
NADRA may use:
Facial recognition
Family biometric verification
Q4: Can I change address during application?
Yes. Present and permanent address can be updated during application.
Q5: Is CNIC delivered to home?
Yes. CNIC is usually delivered by courier.
Q6: Can I track CNIC status?
Yes, using:
Tracking ID
NADRA SMS service
9. Conclusion
Applying for a CNIC at a NADRA Registration Center is still the most reliable and trusted method in Pakistan, especially for first-time applicants and those with verification issues.
Key Points to Remember:
Visit early to avoid rush
Carry all original documents
Verify information carefully
Choose correct service category
Keep tracking slip safe
If you follow this guide step by step, your CNIC application will be smooth, fast, and error-free.
