NADRA Makes Replacing Lost or Damaged CNICs Easier: Fees and Application Process
Losing your Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) can create problems when accessing banking services, government facilities and other important services in Pakistan. A damaged identity card can cause similar difficulties.
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has now shared a step-by-step guide explaining how citizens can obtain replacement identity documents.
The process covers lost or damaged CNICs, National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOPs) and Pakistan Origin Cards (POCs).
According to NADRA’s recently shared video guide, applicants can visit a NADRA Registration Centre to request a replacement. They must complete identity verification, obtain approval and pay the applicable fee.
NADRA also provides an online application facility through its PakID mobile application for eligible services.
Here is everything you need to know about replacing a lost or damaged CNIC in Pakistan, including the application process, fees and expected delivery times.
NADRA Explains How to Replace Lost or Damaged CNICs
NADRA has explained the replacement process to make it easier for citizens to obtain duplicate identity documents.
The procedure applies to several identity documents, including:
- Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs).
- National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOPs).
- Pakistan Origin Cards (POCs).
Applicants must provide the number of their lost or damaged identity document.
For a duplicate CNIC, NADRA identifies the existing CNIC number as the basic requirement.
This information helps the authority locate the applicant’s existing identity record and process the replacement request.
However, applicants should be prepared to complete biometric verification and provide additional information if NADRA requires it.
How to Replace a Lost or Damaged CNIC at a NADRA Office
Citizens can visit a NADRA Registration Centre to apply for a replacement identity card.
NADRA’s video guide explains the process in five main steps.
Step 1: Get an Application Token
Visit your nearest NADRA Registration Centre.
Go to the reception desk and request a token for your duplicate identity card application.
The token places your application in the service queue. Wait until your number is called.
Step 2: Complete Biometric Verification
When your turn arrives, visit the designated counter.
NADRA staff will verify your identity using biometric information.
The process may include:
- Fingerprint verification.
- Photograph capture.
- Iris scanning.
These checks help NADRA confirm that the replacement application belongs to the correct person.
Make sure the information you provide matches your existing identity record.
Step 3: Get Your Application Approved
After biometric verification, visit the relevant office official for application approval.
The official will review your application and check the information submitted.
Once the application is approved, you can proceed to the payment stage.
If additional verification is required, NADRA may ask you to provide further information.
Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fee
After approval, you must pay the fee for your replacement identity card.
According to NADRA’s video guide, applicants can scan the QR code printed on their token to proceed with payment.
The fee depends on the type of identity document and the selected processing category.
For example, a standard duplicate CNIC has different charges from a duplicate Smart CNIC.
Always check the applicable fee before completing the payment.
Step 5: Collect Your Replacement CNIC
After payment, NADRA will issue an application receipt.
Keep this receipt safe because it contains important application information.
You can use it to follow up on your application.
According to the authority’s instructions, applicants can collect their replacement identity cards from the same NADRA office after the relevant processing period.
NADRA Duplicate CNIC Fees in Pakistan
NADRA offers three processing categories for duplicate CNIC applications.
These include Normal, Urgent and Executive services.
The fee depends on how quickly you want to receive your replacement card.
According to NADRA’s published fee schedule, the charges are as follows:
Duplicate CNIC Fees
| Processing Category | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Rs. 400 | 15 days |
| Urgent | Rs. 1,150 | 12 days |
| Executive | Rs. 2,150 | 6 days |
These charges apply to a standard duplicate CNIC.
The fees for a Smart CNIC are different.
Duplicate Smart CNIC Fees
| Processing Category | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Rs. 750 | 31 days |
| Urgent | Rs. 1,500 | 23 days |
| Executive | Rs. 2,500 | 9 days |
The processing period generally starts after the applicable fee has been paid.
Applicants should check NADRA’s official fee schedule before submitting their applications because charges and processing times may change.
Can You Apply for a Duplicate CNIC Online?
Yes. NADRA also offers online identity document services through its PakID mobile application.
This facility can help eligible citizens request replacement documents without visiting a registration centre.
The application process generally involves providing the required information, completing the relevant verification steps and paying the applicable fee.
Applicants can also use the platform to follow their application progress.
However, online processing depends on the type of identity document and the service available for the applicant.
NADRA may require a physical visit if additional biometric verification or document checks are necessary.
You can access NADRA’s official website to find information about the PakID application and available services.
What Should You Do If Your CNIC Is Lost?
If your CNIC is missing, you should arrange a replacement as soon as possible.
Although the replacement process is straightforward, taking a few precautions can help protect your identity.
Consider the following steps:
1. Check whether the card is genuinely lost.
Search your home, workplace, vehicle and other places where you may have kept it.
2. Keep your CNIC number available.
You will need your existing identity card number to request a replacement.
If you have a photograph or digital copy of your old CNIC, it may help you retrieve the number.
3. Contact relevant institutions if necessary.
If you suspect that someone may misuse your lost identity card, contact the relevant bank or service provider.
4. Apply for a replacement.
Visit a NADRA Registration Centre or check whether you can use the PakID application.
5. Keep your application receipt.
The receipt will help you follow up on your replacement request.
Citizens should also avoid sharing CNIC photographs or personal information with unknown individuals.
Does the Same Process Apply to NICOP and POC?
NADRA’s replacement guide also covers NICOPs and Pakistan Origin Cards.
A NICOP is issued to eligible Pakistani citizens living abroad. It serves as an identity document for overseas Pakistanis.
A Pakistan Origin Card is designed for eligible foreign nationals of Pakistani origin.
Both documents have separate fee structures and processing requirements.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that the standard duplicate CNIC fee applies to NICOP or POC replacement applications.
For overseas applicants, the relevant fees may also depend on the country or regional fee category.
NADRA provides separate information for these services on its official website.
Important Things to Remember Before Applying
Before visiting a NADRA Registration Centre, make sure you have the information needed for your application.
Here are some useful points to remember:
- Keep your existing CNIC number available.
- Visit an authorised NADRA Registration Centre.
- Complete the required biometric verification.
- Select the appropriate processing category.
- Pay the official fee through the approved payment method.
- Keep your application receipt.
- Check the expected delivery time.
- Confirm the latest fees through NADRA’s official website.
If you are applying through PakID, follow the instructions displayed in the application.
Do not make payments to unofficial agents or individuals claiming they can speed up the process.
Conclusion
NADRA has explained a simpler process for replacing lost or damaged CNICs, NICOPs and Pakistan Origin Cards.
Citizens can visit a NADRA Registration Centre, complete biometric verification, obtain application approval and pay the applicable fee.
The authority also offers an online facility through the PakID mobile application for eligible replacement services.
For a standard duplicate CNIC, the published fee starts at Rs. 400 under Normal processing. Urgent processing costs Rs. 1,150, while Executive processing costs Rs. 2,150.
The expected processing times are 15, 12 and six days, respectively.
Before applying, citizens should check the latest fees and requirements on NADRA’s official website.
The main takeaway: Keep your existing CNIC number available, complete the required verification and choose the processing category that suits your needs.