What Happens If I Lost My NADRA Card?

February 17, 2025 Mahi Bukhari

Losing your National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) card can be a distressing situation. Your NADRA card, whether it’s a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) or a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), serves as a vital identification document. If lost, it can lead to potential misuse and identity theft. This article provides a comprehensive guide on what to do next, how to secure your identity, and how to apply for a duplicate NADRA card.

Immediate Steps to Take After Losing Your NADRA Card

1. Report the Loss Immediately

The first and foremost step after losing your NADRA card is to report the loss to the relevant authorities. This can prevent any fraudulent use of your identity.

Visit the nearest police station and file a report regarding the lost card.
Keep a copy of the police report as it may be required during the reapplication process.

2. Inform NADRA

NADRA provides an online and in-person reporting system to inform them about a lost or stolen card.

Call NADRA’s helpline (7000 for mobile users or 051-111-786-100 for landline users).
Visit the nearest NADRA center to notify them about the loss.

3. Check for Unauthorized Use

Monitor your bank accounts, mobile registrations, and other services linked to your CNIC to ensure that no unauthorized activities have been performed.

How to Apply for a Duplicate NADRA Card?

If you have lost your NADRA card, you can apply for a duplicate through the official NADRA process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining a replacement.

Step 1: Visit a NADRA Registration Center (NRC)

Locate and visit the nearest NADRA Registration Center with the necessary documents.

Step 2: Provide Required Documents

When applying for a duplicate NADRA card, you will need to submit the following documents:

Original or a copy of your previous CNIC/NICOP (if available)
A copy of your FIR or police report (if required)
Biometric verification (done at NADRA center)
Any additional identification proof (such as a family member’s CNIC copy)

Step 3: Biometric Verification and Photograph

At the NADRA center, they will take your fingerprints and a recent photograph for identity verification.

Step 4: Fee Payment

You will need to pay a processing fee depending on the urgency of your request. NADRA offers three types of processing options:

Normal: 31 days
Urgent: 23 days
Executive: 7 days

Step 5: Tracking Your Application

Once you have submitted your application, NADRA provides a tracking number which you can use to check your application status online or via SMS.

How to Track Your NADRA Card Status?

NADRA provides multiple ways to check the status of your duplicate CNIC application:

1. NADRA SMS Tracking Service

Send your tracking ID to 8400.
You will receive an SMS with your application status.

2. NADRA Online Tracking System

Visit the official NADRA website.
Enter your tracking number in the status-checking section.

3. Contact NADRA Helpline

Call 051-111-786-100 to inquire about your application status.

Precautions to Avoid Losing Your NADRA Card Again

To prevent future loss or theft of your NADRA card, follow these precautions:

Keep Multiple Copies: Always keep photocopies or digital scans of your CNIC/NICOP.
Use a Secure Wallet: Store your card in a safe and secure place to avoid accidental loss.
Limit Usage in Public Places: Be mindful of using your CNIC in crowded areas to prevent misplacement.
Enable Biometric Verification for Transactions: Many banks and mobile networks offer biometric verification linked to CNICs for enhanced security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I travel without my NADRA card?

No, if you are traveling domestically, you may require your CNIC. If traveling internationally, a NICOP is necessary. You must apply for a duplicate before making any travel plans.

2. How long does it take to get a duplicate NADRA card?

The processing time depends on the category you choose:

Normal: 31 days
Urgent: 23 days
Executive: 7 days

3. What should I do if my lost CNIC is used for fraud?

Immediately report to NADRA and file a complaint with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to prevent misuse of your identity.

4. Can I apply for a duplicate NADRA card online?

Yes, NADRA provides an online application service for CNIC/NICOP reissuance through their official website.

5. What is the cost of a duplicate NADRA card?

The fee varies based on urgency:

Normal: PKR 400-600
Urgent: PKR 1,500-2,500
Executive: PKR 2,500-3,500

Conclusion

Losing your NADRA card can be a stressful experience, but by following the right steps, you can safeguard your identity and apply for a duplicate quickly. Always ensure that you take preventive measures to avoid misplacement or misuse of your CNIC/NICOP in the future.