National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued important guidelines for Pakistanis applying for their first Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
The new instructions apply to individuals aged 18 and above whose parents or siblings are either unregistered or unavailable for verification.
NADRA has outlined specific documentation, biometric verification, and attestation requirements to help applicants complete the registration process.
Required Documents for First-Time CNIC Applicants
According to NADRA, applicants must provide valid documents to establish their identity and citizenship.
These documents include a verified computerized birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or naturalization certificate. Applicants must also arrange two witnesses who are at least 18 years old and hold valid identity cards.
Both witnesses must appear for biometric verification during the application process.
NADRA has emphasized that these requirements are particularly important when immediate family members cannot assist with identity verification.
Who Can Serve as a Biometric Witness?
NADRA has clarified the eligibility criteria for individuals serving as biometric witnesses.
Preference will be given to relatives from the applicant’s paternal or maternal family. However, applicants who cannot arrange family witnesses may seek assistance from someone living in their locality.
Such witnesses must personally know the applicant and possess a valid CNIC or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).
This provision allows applicants without available family members to complete the required identity verification process.
Affidavit and Attestation Requirements
In addition to identity documents and witnesses, applicants must submit an Affidavit-B using NADRA’s prescribed format.
The application form must also be attested by an authorized individual under Regulation 9.
These requirements help establish the applicant’s identity when standard family-based verification is unavailable. Applicants should ensure that their documents are complete and properly verified before visiting a registration centre.
Incomplete documentation may create difficulties during the application process.
Additional Documents May Support Verification
NADRA has encouraged applicants to bring any additional documents that could help establish their identity or family relationships.
Supporting records may assist officials in reviewing applications where family registration details are missing.
Applicants should carry original documents and ensure that the information provided is accurate.
The authority’s guidelines aim to clarify the registration process for individuals facing difficulties with family verification.
Where to Apply for Your First Identity Card
Eligible individuals can submit their first-time identity card applications at their nearest NADRA Registration Centre.
Applicants should arrange their required documents, biometric witnesses, and attested forms before visiting.
The latest instructions provide an alternative verification process for adults whose immediate family members are unregistered or unavailable.
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NADRA advises applicants to follow the prescribed procedures to avoid unnecessary delays during registration.
