National Database and Registration Authority has made Proof-of-Life Certificates free for pensioners across Pakistan. The decision will simplify the verification process for elderly citizens and people with limited mobility.
The initiative was launched on Friday under the special directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It was developed through coordination between several federal institutions.
These institutions include the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Defence. The Controller General of Accounts and Military Accountant General also supported the initiative.
A Proof-of-Life Certificate confirms that a pensioner is alive. This verification is required to continue receiving pension payments.
Under existing pension rules, pensioners generally complete biometric life verification every six months. The new system offers several free and accessible verification options.
Pensioners Can Complete Verification at Home
The PakID mobile application provides the easiest digital option. Eligible pensioners can verify their life status without visiting a bank or government office.
The application uses biometric and facial verification technology. This makes the process more convenient for elderly citizens, women and persons with disabilities.
A close family member can also assist through their PakID account. However, they must complete the required identity verification process.
NADRA says the digital facility will reduce unnecessary travel and waiting times. It will particularly help pensioners living far from registration centres.
Free Service Available Across Pakistan
Pensioners who need personal assistance can visit thousands of service locations. The certificate is available without any fee at over 5,000 e-Sahulat franchises.
It is also available at more than 988 NADRA Registration Centres. Around 500 Union Councils will provide the service nationwide.
Pensioners will receive priority service at designated locations. They will not need to wait in standard queues.
Mobile registration vans will also support the initiative. Biker and ManPack registration services will help pensioners who cannot easily travel.
National Pensioners Register Established
The initiative is part of a wider pension reform programme. NADRA has also created a new National Pensioners Register.
The first phase includes pensioners managed by the Controller General of Accounts and Military Accountant General. The register will provide an authenticated digital record for identity and life-status verification.
Relevant pension controllers will receive daily digital notifications when a pensioner’s death is officially recorded. These updates may come through the Death Notification Tool or civil registration system.
Updates involving family pensioners will also be shared with pension authorities. These may include changes in age or marital status.
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However, the relevant pension authority will make the final decision about pension payments. It will decide whether a pension should continue, change or stop under existing rules.
