NADRA offers ‘first free CNIC’ for citizens above 18 years of age

The Government of Pakistan has announced an important facility for its citizens, which will allow all residents who have turned 18 years of age to obtain their first Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) without a chip completely “free of charge”.

According to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), citizens who do not yet have a CNIC can visit any NADRA center near them, complete the application process and receive their first card within 15 days without paying any fee.

Under Pakistani law, citizens are eligible for a CNIC and have the right to vote in general elections once they turn 18 years old.

Read: NADRA inaugurates online CNIC issuance and renewal facility

A CNIC is essential to access services such as bank accounts, mobile connections, passports and government programs like Ehsaas. Offering it free of charge and within 15 days eliminates financial and bureaucratic barriers, especially for citizens in remote areas.

While the first CNIC is free, NADRA has updated the rates for CNIC and Smart National Identity Card (Smart NIC) renewals:

CNIC Renewal:

• Normal: Rs 400, processing time 15 days

• Urgent: Rs 1,150, processing time 12 days

• Executive: Rs 2150, processing time 6 days

Smart NIC Renewal:

• Normal: Rs 750, processing time 31 days

• Urgent: Rs 1,500, processing time 15 days

• Executive: Rs 2,500, processing time 9 days

The updated fee structure gives citizens the flexibility to choose their preferred processing speed and cost. Those who need their CNIC or Smart NIC quickly can opt for the Executive service, which significantly reduces the waiting period.

Read more: Why is it important for families to cancel their ID after death?

NADRA issues identity cards that provide personal data, biometric information and a unique identification number, allowing access to government services, voting and legal processes.

Citizens can apply for their first CNIC or renewals depending on the urgency. The first free CNICs allow young adults to register to vote immediately and grant legal recognition to those without formal documentation.