NADRA Introduces New Policy for Citizens Without Birth Certificates

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced a conditional facility allowing eligible citizens to obtain a computerized national identity card even if they do not possess a computerized birth certificate issued by local governments.

Although NADRA has registered approximately 98.3 percent of the adult population, about 1.7 percent of adults remain without identity cards. A large proportion of unregistered individuals are women. In several districts where civil birth registration remains low, both men and women have been unable to complete registration.

NADRA requires a computerized birth certificate for first time registration, and its absence has emerged as a major barrier. While preparing its 2025 annual report, NADRA analyzed ten years of registration data in coordination with the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the Election Commission of Pakistan, the National Commission on the Status of Women and the National Commission on the Rights of Child.

The review identified causes of the gap and proposed corrective measures. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed NADRA to introduce a structured and lawful solution, which the NADRA Authority Board approved.

The facility will remain effective until December 31, 2026. Applicants without birth certificates may obtain identity cards after completing strict verification, including biometric confirmation from registered close family members. Married women aged 18 or above must provide a valid marriage certificate, the computerized identity card of one parent, the husband’s identity card, and biometric verification of one parent and the husband.

Unmarried women aged 18 or above must present one parent’s identity card and biometric verification from that parent. Male applicants over 24 must show that at least one parent holds a computerized identity card and that at least one sibling is registered, along with biometric verification of one parent.

If both parents or a husband have passed away but their records exist in NADRA’s database, an authorized officer may grant exemption from biometric verification after review.

NADRA will issue non smart identity cards in the normal category free of charge under this time bound facility. After registration, parentage, date of birth, and place of birth will become final and cannot be changed. Applicants must ensure all information is accurate before completing registration and apply before the deadline at their nearest NADRA registration center.

Follow ProPakistani on Google News & scroll through your favourite content faster!