NADRA Conditional CNIC Facility: No Birth Certificate Required Until 2026

The National Database and Registration Authority has launched the NADRA Conditional CNIC Facility to help citizens without birth certificates. Officials say the step will close long-standing documentation gaps. The facility will remain available until Dec. 31, 2026.
Authorities introduced the measure on the directive of Mohsin Naqvi. The NADRA Authority Board approved the policy under the NADRA Ordinance and national identity card rules. As a result, first-time applicants can now register through alternative verification methods.

Eligibility and Verification Rules

Under the new policy, married women aged 18 or above must present a marriage certificate. In addition, their parents and husband must hold valid identity cards. Officials will conduct biometric verification of relevant family members. However, unmarried women will not face conditions related to a husband.
For men aged 24 or above, authorities will require a parent’s identity card and at least one sibling’s card. They will also complete biometric verification of one parent. If both parents or a husband have passed away but their records exist in NADRA’s database, officials may waive biometric requirements. Therefore, eligible applicants can still complete the process.

Free First-Time Registration

NADRA will issue a non-smart national identity card free of charge to first-time applicants. Citizens must carefully check their details during registration. Officials will not allow later changes to parentage, date of birth, or place of birth.
Last year, NADRA introduced broader reforms. These updates improved identity verification, document cancellation procedures, and the National Identity Card framework. In addition, officials revised Pakistan Origin Card rules and launched a modern procurement system.
Overall, the new facility reflects NADRA’s push to improve access, accuracy, and accountability in identity management.