Your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is one of the most important documents you will ever own as a Pakistani citizen. It’s your official proof of identity and is essential for almost all formal transactions in the country, including voting, registering Sim card, opening a bank account, applying for jobs, and more. If your CNIC is about to expire, lost, or needs updates due to changes in personal details, renewing it is crucial. Let’s dive into the complete guide on how to renew CNIC in Pakistan.

What is CNIC?

A CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is the identification card issued to Pakistani citizens. It serves as proof of identity and nationality and is required for numerous activities ranging from voting in elections to enrolling in higher education institutions. Issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority), this card is essential for government services, banking transactions, travel, and even buying SIM cards.

When Should You Renew CNIC?

There are several occasions when you might need to renew CNIC. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Expiry: The CNIC is usually valid for 10 years. Upon expiration, you’ll need to renew it to avoid legal issues.
2. Damaged or Lost CNIC: If your card is damaged or lost, it’s essential to get it replaced to maintain your identity verification.
3. Change in Personal Information: If you’ve changed your name, address, or other personal details, you must update your CNIC to reflect these changes.
4. Upgrading to a Smart NIC: While not mandatory, upgrading to a Smart NIC offers several advantages, such as improved security and ease of use for various transactions.

Why is CNIC Renewal Important?

Renewing your CNIC is not just a formality but a legal requirement. Here’s why it’s important:

• Legal Compliance: Carrying an expired CNIC can lead to complications with the law. It’s mandatory to have a valid CNIC as an adult Pakistani citizen.
• Access to Services: Government services like healthcare, education, and welfare require a valid CNIC. Many private services, such as banking and telecommunications, also rely on CNIC verification.
• Voting and Civic Participation: A valid CNIC is required to vote in elections and participate in civic duties.

Methods of CNIC Renewal

NADRA provides two primary methods for renewing your CNIC:

1. Visiting NADRA Offices: The traditional method involves going to a NADRA office, filling out forms, and submitting documents in person.
2. Online Renewal: For convenience, NADRA also allows you to renew CNIC online through its portal. This is a great option for those who prefer to avoid the long lines at the NADRA offices.

Renew CNIC at NADRA Offices?

If you prefer the in-person method, here’s what you need to do:

Receive the Token/Receipt: Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a token or receipt to track your application.

Visit the Nearest NADRA Office: Find a NADRA office near you using NADRA’s office locator.

Fill Out the Form: You’ll need to fill out the CNIC renewal form. Assistance is usually available at the office if needed.

Submit Required Documents: Submit your current CNIC (if applicable) along with any other required documents.

Biometric Verification: You’ll be asked to provide biometric verification (fingerprints, photo).

Pay the Fee: Depending on whether you opt for regular or urgent processing, you’ll need to pay the associated fee.

Renew CNIC Online

A person in Pakistan knows all too well how difficult it is to get or renew their ID card. Standing in long lines outside NADRA offices to get the CNIC is not an easy process. But now, with NADRA online facility, you can Renew CNIC and get at your home.

• First, visit the NADRA online portal (https://id.nadra.gov.pk/). Once you access the link, you will see an option to ‘Apply now/Login’. Click this.
• Creating an account on the NADRA online portal is necessary if you don’t already have one.
• You can read our article about online verification of CNIC on our site (Link: https://siminfo.pk/online-verification-how-to-verify-cnic-in-pakistan/) to find out how to create an account on NADRA’s online portal. In that article, you will find the complete steps for creating an account.
• The screen will display different options, such as online CNIC, FRC, verification services, etc. Click on “Online CNIC”.
• Choose “My identity card has expired” from the list of options and click “Start New Application”.
•  On your screen, you will see a form. Fill in all the required information.
• Pay the application fee online through any credit or debit card by entering the address where you want your card delivered.
• Upload the scanned photograph and required documents next.
• For fingerprint guidelines, please refer to https://id.nadra.gov.pk/docs/FingerprintGuidelines.pdf.
• Upload your fingerprints to the document.
• Complete the Urdu data form after downloading it.
• The Urdu form should be filled out, scanned, and uploaded. If applicable, the witness form should also be uploaded.
• Lastly, review all the information and sign the declaration.

After completing the application form, NADRA will initiate the renewal process. Once the process is complete, you will receive the renewed CNIC at the address of your choice.

CNIC Renewal Fees

Here’s a list of Lost CNIC renewal fees:

Application Types	Normal (31 days)	Urgent (23 days)	Executive (7 days)
Smart Computerized National Identity Card (Smart CNIC)	PKR 750	PKR 1,500	PKR 2,500
Smart National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistani (Smart NICOP) – Zone B	USD 39	USD 57	USD 75
Smart National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistani (Smart NICOP) – Zone B	USD20	USD 30	USD 40

Common Issues Faced During CNIC Renewal

Sometimes, people face issues during the renewal process, such as:

• Delays: Occasionally, processing can take longer due to high demand.
• Incorrect Information: If there are mistakes in the renewed CNIC, you’ll need to revisit NADRA for corrections.
• Document Rejections: Incomplete or incorrect documents may result in application rejection.

If you encounter any issues, NADRA’s customer service or help desks at the offices are usually equipped to resolve them.

Can we verify a CNIC Online?

Yes, you can verify a CNIC online using siminfo.pk. This website allows you to check the status of SIM card registered against a specific CNIC. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit siminfo.pk: Go to the website.
2. Click on CNIC Information: Navigate to CNIC Information section
3. Enter CNIC Details: Input the CNIC number you wish to verify.
4. Submit: Click on the Search/verification button.
5. View Results: The site will display CNIC information about CNIC, including the City, District, Gender, Province, full address and the number of SIMs registered.

Conclusion

Keeping your CNIC up to date ensures you have access to important services, such as banking and voting, as well as compliance with national regulations. For your convenience, NADRA offers both in-person and online renewal options. You can renew CNIC from the comfort of your home or at a NADRA office. To avoid delays and ensure a successful renewal, make sure you have all your documents ready.