How Can You Get CNIC Details?

March 12, 2025 Mahi Bukhari

A Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is an official identification document issued by a country’s government. It is a crucial document for citizens as it is required for various legal, financial, and governmental purposes. In Pakistan, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is responsible for issuing CNICs.

Methods to Retrieve CNIC Details

1. Checking CNIC Details Through NADRA Online Portal

Step 1: Visit the official NADRA website (https://www.nadra.gov.pk).
Step 2: Navigate to the CNIC Verification section.
Step 3: Enter the required details, including CNIC number and security verification.
Step 4: Submit the request, and the system will provide details related to the CNIC holder.

2. Checking CNIC Details Through SMS Service

NADRA provides an SMS verification service for citizens to check basic CNIC details.

Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
Step 2: Type the CNIC number without dashes and send it to 7000.
Step 3: You will receive a reply containing basic CNIC details, such as the registered individual’s name and address.

3. Visiting NADRA Registration Centers

For detailed information, citizens can visit their nearest NADRA office.

Bring your original CNIC or a valid proof of identity.
Fill out the necessary application form.
Submit any required supporting documents.
Pay the applicable service fee.
Receive a printout of the required CNIC details.

4. Using Third-Party Services

Several private agencies offer CNIC verification services for employment, property dealings, and background checks. Ensure that any service used is authorized and compliant with privacy laws.

Legal and Privacy Concerns

Obtaining someone’s CNIC details without their consent is illegal and can result in penalties. The Pakistani government enforces strict data privacy laws to protect personal information. Only authorized agencies, such as banks, employers, and law enforcement, have access to comprehensive CNIC records.

Uses of CNIC Details

Bank Account Opening – Required for financial transactions.
SIM Card Registration – Needed for mobile connections.
Voting Eligibility – Essential for voter verification.
Passport and Visa Processing – Mandatory for international travel.
Government Benefits – Used for social security programs and welfare schemes.

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Incorrect CNIC Details in NADRA Records

Visit the nearest NADRA office.
Submit an application for correction.
Provide supporting documents (birth certificate, education certificate, etc.).
Pay the required fee and get an updated record.

2. Lost CNIC Details or Card

Report the loss to NADRA.
Apply for a duplicate CNIC by submitting a FIR (if required).
Pay the replacement fee and collect your new CNIC within the given timeframe.

3. Issues with Online CNIC Verification

Ensure the CNIC number is correctly entered.
Check if NADRA’s website is operational.
Contact NADRA’s helpline (051-111-786-100) for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I check CNIC details online for free?

Yes, you can use NADRA’s online portal for basic CNIC verification, but detailed information might require a service fee.

2. How can I verify a CNIC number using SMS?

Simply send an SMS with the CNIC number (without dashes) to 7000, and you will receive a response with basic details.

3. Is it legal to obtain someone else’s CNIC details?

No, unauthorized access to someone else’s CNIC details is illegal and punishable by law.

4. How long does it take to retrieve CNIC details?

If using NADRA’s SMS service, it takes a few minutes. For detailed records at a NADRA office, processing times vary but typically take a few hours to a few days.

5. What should I do if my CNIC details are incorrect?

You should visit the nearest NADRA office with relevant documents and apply for correction.