New method to help senior and medically affected citizens as centers will begin issuing certificates from January 20.
Visitors check their phones behind the screen advertising facial recognition software during the Global Mobile Internet Conference (GMIC) at the National Convention in Beijing, China, April 27, 2018. PHOTO: REUTERS
KARACHI:
The National Database and Registration Authority has launched a facial recognition-based biometric verification system to help citizens facing difficulties with fingerprint verification, particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions.
A NADRA spokesperson said the move follows directives from the prime minister and home minister, according to which several steps have been taken to improve identity verification. Modifications have been made to the National Identity Document regulations to expand the legal definition of biometric verification, formally including facial recognition.
NADRA said it is fully prepared to implement the system and has asked relevant government and private institutions to make arrangements to recognize facial recognition as a valid verification method.
“The service has already been added as a feature of the Pak-Identity mobile app,” the spokesperson said, adding that once Pakistan’s digital ID system is formally launched, facial recognition verification will be available directly through the app.
Also Read: NADRA to launch facial recognition feature in January
Starting January 20, all NADRA registration centers across the country will start issuing biometric verification certificates based on facial recognition. As per the new procedure, if the fingerprint verification fails, the citizen will be directed to the nearest NADRA registration center for facial recognition.
Once the process is completed, NADRA will issue a biometric verification certificate. Citizens will be able to obtain the certificate when required by paying a nominal fee.
The certificate will carry the individual’s photograph, national identity card number, name, father’s name, a unique tracking ID and a QR code. It will be valid for seven days.
NADRA recommended that anyone having issues with service availability should lodge a complaint with the relevant institution or department.
