ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to facilitate citizens, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced that individuals applying for their first Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) can now obtain it free of cost within 15 days.
According to an official statement shared on NADRA’s verified Facebook page, citizens who have turned 18 or those who have never applied for a CNIC are eligible to receive their first non-chip identity card without any processing fee. Applicants are encouraged to visit the nearest NADRA centre, complete the required procedure, and collect their CNIC within two weeks.
Under Pakistani law, every citizen becomes eligible to apply for a national identity card upon reaching the age of 18, which also grants them the right to vote in general elections.
In addition to this initiative, NADRA has also revised its fee structure for CNIC and Smart ID card renewals for the month of October 2025.
For CNIC renewals, the updated charges are as follows:
- Normal: PKR 400 – processing time of 15 days
- Urgent: PKR 1,150 – processing time of 12 days
- Executive: PKR 2,150 – processing time of 6 days
Similarly, for Smart ID card renewals, NADRA will charge:
- Normal: PKR 750 – processing time of 31 days
- Urgent: PKR 1,500 – processing time of 15 days
- Executive: PKR 2,500 – processing time of 9 days
The new fee structure offers greater flexibility, allowing citizens to choose between faster processing times or more economical options depending on their needs. Those who require their ID cards urgently can opt for the Executive category, which ensures delivery within just a few days.
NADRA continues to play a vital role in providing secure and efficient identification services to Pakistanis. The CNIC serves as an essential document for accessing government benefits, exercising voting rights, and verifying personal identity in both public and private institutions.
By introducing this free first-time CNIC service, the government aims to make the registration process more accessible especially for young adults and underprivileged citizens ensuring that every eligible Pakistani has an official identity in the national database.
