QR codes, iris scan, revised child registration process introduced under NADRA’s new CNIC rules

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced major amendments to the National Identity Card Rules, 2002. Under the revised regulations, a birth registration with the local Union Council is now mandatory to obtain a Child Registration Certificate (Form-B).

Non-chip identity cards will now include English details alongside Urdu text and will feature a QR code. These features will be added without any additional fee.

According to the official notification:

Children under the age of 3 will not be required to provide biometrics or a photograph.
For children aged 3 to 10, a photograph will be mandatory, along with an iris scan.
Children between 10 and 18 years of age must provide a photograph, biometric data, and an iris scan.

Each child will be issued a separate Form-B, which will include a validity period. Previously issued Form-Bs will remain valid; however, obtaining a new Form-B will be necessary for passport applications. The updated procedures aim to curb fake registrations and combat child trafficking more effectively.

The Family Registration Certificate (FRC) has now been granted legal status. Applicants must submit a declaration confirming the accuracy of the recorded data. Citizens will only be able to obtain the FRC based on NADRA’s existing records, and must include details of any family members not previously registered. Individuals can update their family information via the mobile app or by visiting a NADRA office.

For men with multiple marriages, complete details of all family members will be included in the FRC. Women will have the choice to list either their father’s or husband’s name on their identity card.

Decisions on the cancellation, suspension, or reinstatement of identity cards must now be concluded within 30 days. NADRA has also integrated most smart card features into the non-chip version, which will be issued more quickly and at a lower fee than the smart card.