CNIC Fee Structure and Processing Time in Pakistan (2025)

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The Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is a must-have document for every Pakistani citizen aged 18 and above. Issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), it’s your key to accessing services like banking, voting, getting a passport, or even a mobile SIM. In this article, we’ll break down the latest CNIC fee structure and processing times for 2025 in simple words, so you can easily understand the costs and how long it takes to get your CNIC.

CNIC Fee Structure (2025)

NADRA offers different types of CNIC services, including the Standard CNIC and the Smart National Identity Card (Smart NIC), which has a microchip for extra security. The fees depend on how quickly you need your card. Here’s the latest fee structure:

• Normal Service: Rs. 750
  This is the standard option and takes the longest time to process. It’s best if you’re not in a hurry.
• Urgent Service: Rs. 1,500
  This is for faster processing if you need your CNIC sooner.
• Executive Service: Rs. 2,500
  This is the fastest option, perfect for those who need their card urgently, like for travel or other immediate needs.

Note: These fees are for a new Smart NIC, renewal, or replacement. The first-time issuance of a standard CNIC is free. If you need home delivery, there might be an extra charge of around Rs. 100–150 in Pakistan. For overseas Pakistanis applying for a NICOP, delivery charges vary by country, so check the NADRA website for details.

Processing Time for CNIC

The time it takes to get your CNIC depends on the service you choose:

• Normal Service: Around 31 days after your application is approved.
• Urgent Service: Around 23 days after approval.
• Executive Service: Around 7–14 days after approval, making it the quickest option.

For overseas Pakistanis applying for a NICOP, processing times vary by region:

• Zone A (e.g., USA, UK): About 30 days.
• Zone B (other regions): Up to 45 days.

Make sure your application is complete with all required documents to avoid delays. Incomplete applications can take longer if NADRA needs more information from you.

How to Apply for a CNIC

You can apply for a CNIC in two ways:

1. Visit a NADRA Registration Center (NRC):
   • Go to your nearest NRC.
   • Bring required documents like a birth certificate, matriculation certificate, or a family member’s CNIC.
   • Get a token, provide biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature), fill out the form, and pay the fee.
   • Collect your CNIC later or opt for home delivery.
2. Online via Pak Identity Portal:
   • Visit the Pak Identity Portal.
   • Create an account, fill out the form, upload documents, and pay online.
   • Note: You can’t apply for a new CNIC online; this is for renewals, modifications, or NICOP.

For more details on the application process, check out jininews.pk.

Documents Needed

To apply for a CNIC, you’ll need:

• A birth certificate or matriculation certificate.
• A copy of a parent’s or sibling’s CNIC.
• For married individuals, a marriage certificate or spouse’s CNIC (if applicable).
• For updates (e.g., name, address), bring supporting documents like a utility bill or marriage certificate.

If you’re applying for the first time, a blood relative (parent, sibling, etc.) may need to provide biometric verification at the NRC to skip attestation.

Why the Smart CNIC?

The Smart CNIC is more secure than the standard CNIC because it has:

• A microchip to store your data safely.
• Biometric verification (fingerprints and facial data) to prevent identity theft.
• Digital encryption to protect against counterfeiting.

It’s valid for 10 years and can be used for banking, voting, and even international travel (for NICOP). It’s a great choice for secure and modern identification.

Extra Costs to Know

• Lost or Duplicate CNIC: The fees are the same as for a new Smart NIC (Rs. 750–2,500, depending on the service).
• Modifications: Updating details like your name, address, or marital status costs the same as the service type (normal, urgent, or executive).
• Delivery Charges: Home delivery in Pakistan costs Rs. 100–150. For international delivery (NICOP), check NADRA’s website for exact costs.

Tips to Avoid Delays

• Double-check all documents before submitting.
• Make sure your information matches NADRA’s records to avoid issues.
• If applying online, use the Pak Identity Portal for a smoother process.
• For urgent needs, opt for the executive service to get your card faster.

For the latest updates on NADRA services, visit jininews.pk or the official NADRA website.

Conclusion

Getting or renewing your CNIC is simple if you know the fees and process. The Smart CNIC is a secure and modern option, with fees ranging from Rs. 750 to Rs. 2,500 based on how fast you need it. Processing times vary from 7 to 45 days, depending on the service and your location. Whether you apply at an NRC or online, make sure your documents are ready to avoid delays. Stay updated with jininews.pk for more news and guides on NADRA services!