Last Updated: May 2026
Getting your first CNIC is one of the most important things you will do as a Pakistani citizen. This guide walks you through every step of applying for a new Computerised National Identity Card in 2026, from gathering your documents to collecting your card, so you can complete the entire process in one visit without any confusion.
Quick Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | Pakistani citizens aged 18 and above |
| Where to Apply | Any NADRA Registration Centre or Pak Identity app |
| Documents Needed | 4 to 5 documents |
| Normal Fee | PKR 750 |
| Urgent Fee | PKR 1,500 |
| Executive Fee | PKR 3,000 |
| Online Option | Yes, via Pak Identity app |
What is a CNIC?
A Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) is the official identity document issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) to all Pakistani citizens. It contains your full name, photograph, fingerprints, date of birth, and a unique 13-digit national identity number. You need a CNIC to open a bank account, register a SIM card, vote in elections, apply for a passport, get a driving licence, buy or sell property, and access almost every government service in Pakistan.
Who Needs to Apply for a New CNIC?
- Pakistani citizens who have just turned 18 and are applying for the first time
- Citizens who held a manual National Identity Card (NIC) and need to upgrade to a CNIC
- Citizens who were registered under their parents and are now applying independently
- Citizens whose records were never entered into the NADRA system
Required Documents for a New CNIC
Gather all of these before going to NADRA. Missing even one document can result in your application being turned away on the day.
- Original B-Form or Birth Certificate — Your child registration document issued by NADRA. If you do not have one, apply for a B-Form at NADRA before coming for your CNIC.
- Parent’s CNIC (original and photocopy) — At least one parent’s CNIC is required. If both parents are deceased, bring death certificates and a close relative’s CNIC.
- Matriculation Certificate or School Leaving Certificate — Confirms your date of birth. If you never attended school, bring a court affidavit confirming your date of birth.
- Two recent passport-size photographs — White background. NADRA also takes your photograph digitally at the centre.
- Proof of current address (recommended) — A utility bill or rental agreement in your name or a parent’s name helps confirm your address on record.
No B-Form or birth certificate? Bring two witnesses who hold CNICs to verify your identity. NADRA staff will record their statements. This is common in rural areas.
CNIC Fees in 2026
| Processing Type | Fee (PKR) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 750 | 25 to 30 working days |
| Urgent | 1,500 | 10 to 15 working days |
| Executive | 3,000 | 5 to 7 working days |
Note: Fees may change. Confirm at your nearest NADRA Registration Centre before visiting. Payment is accepted in cash, JazzCash, or Easypaisa at most centres.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a New CNIC in Person
- Find your nearest NADRA Registration Centre. Call 051-111-786-100 or check nadra.gov.pk. Book an appointment via the Pak Identity app to skip the walk-in queue.
- Bring originals and photocopies of all documents. Never leave originals at home.
- Arrive early and collect a token. Tell the counter you are applying for a new CNIC. Arrive before 9am if possible. Queues can exceed two hours by mid-morning.
- Submit your documents at the application window. The NADRA officer will verify everything and ask you to fill in an application form. Check every field carefully before signing.
- Complete biometric verification. Your ten fingerprints are scanned and your digital photograph is taken. Keep fingertips clean and dry for accurate scanning.
- Pay the fee at the payment counter. Choose Normal, Urgent, or Executive. Keep your receipt safely because you need it to collect your CNIC.
- Receive your acknowledgement slip. This contains your tracking number. Use it to check your application status via SMS to 7000 or on the Pak Identity app.
- Track your application and collect when ready. NADRA will SMS you when your card is ready. Return with your original receipt to collect it from the same centre.
How to Apply via the Pak Identity App
- Download Pak Identity from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Create an account with your Pakistani mobile number.
- Select “Apply for New CNIC” and upload scanned documents.
- Fill in your personal details and pay the fee via card or JazzCash.
- Book a biometric appointment at your nearest NADRA centre.
- Attend in person for fingerprinting and photograph recording.
- Track in the app and collect your CNIC when the SMS arrives.
Important: You must visit NADRA at least once in person for biometrics. The app saves you from the walk-in queue, but fingerprints and photographs cannot be done remotely.
How Long Does It Take?
Normal processing takes 25 to 30 working days. Urgent takes 10 to 15 working days. Executive takes 5 to 7 working days. Actual times depend on your centre’s workload and whether your application needs extra verification. You will receive an SMS when your CNIC is ready for collection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing photocopies without originals. NADRA always checks originals. Do not leave them at home.
- Name spelling mismatch across documents. If your name is spelled differently on your B-Form versus your school certificate, fix it with a court affidavit before applying.
- Outdated address on NADRA records. Update your address in the NADRA system before applying if you have recently moved.
- Losing the acknowledgement slip. You need it to collect your CNIC. Store it safely immediately.
- Wrong mobile number on the application. NADRA sends status updates via SMS. An incorrect number means missed notifications.
- Going during peak hours. Arrive before 9am or book an appointment to avoid long waits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a CNIC before turning 18?
No. CNIC is only issued to citizens aged 18 and above. If you are under 18, you should hold a B-Form. You can apply for your CNIC the day you turn 18 with no waiting period required.
What if I do not have a B-Form or birth certificate?
You can still apply by bringing two witnesses who hold CNICs to verify your identity. NADRA records their statements officially. You can also first apply for a B-Form at any NADRA centre and then return for your CNIC. A court affidavit confirming your date of birth is also accepted in many cases.
How do I check my CNIC application status?
Send your tracking number via SMS to 7000 from any Pakistani mobile network. You can also check at nadra.gov.pk using the online tracker or in the Pak Identity app under your application history. NADRA also sends an automatic SMS when your CNIC is ready for collection.
Can someone else collect my CNIC on my behalf?
Yes. An immediate family member such as a parent or sibling can collect it. They must bring the original acknowledgement slip, their own CNIC, and a written authorization letter from you. NADRA staff may also ask for proof of the family relationship.
What is the difference between Normal, Urgent, and Executive processing?
The only difference is speed and cost. Normal costs PKR 750 and takes up to 30 working days. Urgent costs PKR 1,500 and takes up to 15 working days. Executive costs PKR 3,000 and takes up to 7 working days. The CNIC card you receive is exactly the same in all three cases.
How do I pay the CNIC fee?
At most NADRA centres you can pay in cash at the payment counter. Many centres also accept JazzCash and Easypaisa. If using the Pak Identity app, pay via credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet. Confirm accepted payment methods at your specific centre before visiting as digital payments are not available everywhere.
What happens if my application is rejected?
NADRA notifies you by SMS or written notice with the specific reason. Common reasons include name mismatches, unclear photographs, or missing documents. Fix the issue and reapply. The officer at your centre can advise exactly what to correct before your next visit.
Is the fee refunded if my application is rejected?
No. The CNIC application fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. Make sure all documents are complete and correct before submitting. When in doubt, ask NADRA staff at the token counter to check your documents before you start the full application process.