NADRA Introduces New Policy for Identity Cards Without Birth Certificates in 2026
In a landmark move announced as of February 23, 2026, NADRA has introduced a time-bound facilitation policy allowing first-time adult applicants to obtain a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) even if they do not possess a Local Government–issued computerized birth certificate. This reform addresses the remaining 1.7% adult registration gap in Pakistan’s National Identity System—an underserved segment disproportionately comprising women and residents of districts with weaker civil documentation coverage.
The facilitation remains valid until December 31, 2026 and is grounded in a structured, legally approved verification framework to ensure integrity while expanding inclusion.
Why This Policy Was Introduced
Pakistan has achieved approximately 98.3% adult registration, but analysis conducted during NADRA’s Annual Report 2025 revealed that the primary obstacle for the remaining unregistered adults was the absence of a computerized birth certificate—the standard feeder document for first-time CNIC issuance.
A multi-agency data review was carried out in coordination with:
- Pakistan Bureau of Statistics
- Election Commission of Pakistan
- National Commission on the Status of Women
- National Commission for Child Welfare and Development
Following presentation of findings, the Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control directed NADRA to introduce a legally grounded alternative verification mechanism. The proposal was subsequently approved by the NADRA Authority Board.
The facilitation is authorized under:
- Section 5(1)(b) and Section 20 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000
- Rule 8 of the NADRA NIC Rules, 2002
These provisions permit alternative verification methods in specified cases.
Key Policy Highlights (2026)
Validity Period
This special facilitation is strictly valid until December 31, 2026.
Target Applicants
- First-time CNIC applicants
- Aged 18 years or above
- Without computerized birth certificate
Fee Structure
Teslin (non-smart) CNIC under the Normal category will be issued free of charge under this framework.
Irrevocability Clause
Once the following information is recorded in NADRA’s National Identity System, it becomes final and cannot be changed without a court order:
- Date of Birth
- Parentage
- Place of Birth
Applicants must ensure complete accuracy during registration.
Eligibility & Verification Requirements
Since the birth certificate requirement is waived, NADRA has implemented strict biometric and family-link verification mechanisms.
For Married Women (18 Years or Above)
Mandatory Requirements:
- Valid Local Government Nikahnama (Marriage Certificate)
- Valid CNIC or NICOP of either parent
- Valid CNIC or NICOP of husband
- Biometric verification of:
- One parent, and
- Husband
This ensures identity linkage through both parental and marital records.
For Unmarried Women (18 Years or Above)
Requirements:
- Valid CNIC or NICOP of either parent
- Biometric verification of one parent (father or mother)
The husband-related condition does not apply.
For Male Applicants (24 Years or Above)
Issuance is allowed only if:
- Either parent holds a valid CNIC or NICOP
- At least one sibling holds a valid CNIC or NICOP
- Biometric verification of one parent is completed
The higher age threshold reflects additional scrutiny measures for male applicants.
Special Provision – Deceased Parents or Husband
If parents or husband are deceased but their records exist in NADRA’s database:
- An authorized officer may grant exemption from biometric verification
- Exemption is subject to record-based linkage verification
- Thorough internal verification checks are conducted
This exemption is not automatic and depends on satisfactory record authentication.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Visit NADRA Registration Centre
This facility is not available via Pak-ID app for undocumented first-time applicants. You must visit the nearest NADRA Registration Centre (NRC).
Step 2 – Bring Required Family Members
Eligible applicants must bring:
- Parent(s) for biometric attestation
- Husband (if married female)
Biometric verification is mandatory on the spot.
Step 3 – Data Entry & Verification
NADRA officer will:
- Enter personal details
- Establish family linkage
- Conduct biometric scans
- Cross-verify existing records
Step 4 – Review Carefully
Applicants must review:
- Name spelling
- Date of birth
- Parentage
- Place of birth
Once confirmed, these entries become permanent.
Why This Policy Is Significant
1. Closing the Registration Gap
The policy directly targets the remaining 1.7% unregistered adults.
2. Gender Inclusion
The registration gap is higher among women due to documentation barriers.
3. District-Level Equity
Underserved regions with weak civil record systems benefit most.
4. Strengthening Electoral Integrity
Full adult registration improves voter roll accuracy.
5. Social Protection Access
Without CNIC, citizens cannot access:
- BISP assistance
- Banking services
- SIM registration
- Passport issuance
- Government subsidies
This reform enhances civic participation.
Important Warnings for Applicants
- This facilitation is temporary and expires December 31, 2026.
- False declarations may result in legal action.
- Biometric verification is strictly mandatory unless exemption is granted.
- No agent or middleman is authorized to charge fees.
The Teslin CNIC under Normal category is free under this scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply online under this policy?
No. First-time undocumented applicants must visit NADRA Registration Centres.
Can I change my date of birth later?
No. Once recorded under this facilitation, details are irrevocable unless changed via court order.
Is Smart CNIC free under this scheme?
No. Only Teslin non-smart CNIC under Normal category is issued free.
What if I don’t have a sibling registered?
Male applicants above 24 must meet sibling requirement unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Final Advisory
Eligible citizens are strongly encouraged to approach the nearest NADRA Registration Centre as soon as possible to benefit from this time-bound facilitation. Delaying registration may result in losing this opportunity once the December 31, 2026 deadline passes.
