Citizens without a CNIC can go to the NADRA center, complete their application and receive their card within 15 days
The government of Pakistan has announced a major scheme for its citizens, allowing all residents who have reached the age of 18 to obtain their first computerized national identity card (CNIC) without a chip completely “free”.
According to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), citizens who do not yet have a CNIC can visit any nearby NADRA center, complete the application process and receive their first card within 15 days without paying any fees.
حکومتِ پاکستان کی عوام کے لئے بڑی سہولت
پہلا شناختی کارڈ (بغیر سمارٹ چِپ) بالکل مفت
There are more than 15 years of waiting for a business trip کارڈ حاصل کریں pic.twitter.com/QgzfKL86do
-NADRA (@NadraPak) October 28, 2025
Under Pakistani law, citizens become eligible for CNIC and the right to vote in general elections from the age of 18.
Read: NADRA launches online CNIC issuance and renewal service
A CNIC is essential for accessing services such as bank accounts, mobile connections, passports and government programs like Ehsaas. Providing it free of charge and within 15 days removes financial and bureaucratic barriers, especially for citizens in remote areas.
Although the first CNIC is free, NADRA has updated the renewal fees for CNICs and Smart National Identity Cards (Smart NIC):
Renewal of the CNIC:
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Normal: Rs400, processing time 15 days
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Urgent: Rs1,150, processing time 12 days
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Executive: Rs2,150, processing time 6 days
Renewing the smart network card:
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Normal: Rs750, processing time 31 days
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Urgent: Rs1,500, processing time 15 days
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Executive: Rs2,500, processing time 9 days
The updated pricing structure provides citizens with 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 time.
Learn more: Why is canceling ID after death important for families?
NADRA issues identity cards that provide personal details, biometric information and a unique identification number, allowing access to government services, voting and legal procedures.
Citizens can apply for their first CNIC or their renewal depending on the urgency. The first free CNICs allow young adults to immediately register to vote and grant legal recognition to those without official documents.
