The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched a major relief initiative for citizens lacking computerized birth certificates, introducing a time-bound conditional facility for first-time CNIC registration. Simultaneously, the authority has tightened rules for date of birth (DOB) corrections, making court orders mandatory in Punjab.

CNIC Without Birth Certificate: Who Can Apply?

The new facility will remain effective until December 31, 2026. It allows eligible applicants to obtain a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) through alternative verification methods.

The decision was taken on the directive of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and approved by the NADRA Authority Board under the NADRA Ordinance and CNIC rules.

Eligibility Conditions

Married women (18 years or older) must provide:

• Valid Nikahnama (marriage certificate)
• CNIC of at least one parent
• Husband’s CNIC
• Biometric verification of one parent and husband

Also Read: NADRA imposes new rules on CNIC date of birth changes

Unmarried women (18+) must submit:

• CNIC of one parent
• Biometric verification of that parent

Men aged 24 or above must ensure:

• At least one parent holds a CNIC
• At least one sibling is registered
• Biometric verification of one parent

If parents or husband are deceased but records exist in NADRA’s database, biometric exemption may be granted after official review.

Free Non-Smart CNIC Under Limited-Time Policy

Under this special measure, NADRA will issue a non-smart CNIC free of charge for first-time applicants.

However, once registration is completed:

• Parentage cannot be changed
• Date of birth cannot be altered
• Place of birth cannot be modified

Applicants are advised to ensure complete accuracy before final submission.

Also Read: NADRA introduces Nishan-e-Pakistan digital identity verification system

Strict Rules for Date of Birth Changes in Punjab

NADRA has also announced that any correction or change in date of birth on birth certificates issued in Punjab will require:

• A formal court order from the Union Council, Cantonment Board, or Municipal Corporation
• A verified computerized birth registration certificate

Without these documents, NADRA will not process DOB change requests.

This policy aims to prevent misuse, protect identity integrity, and ensure transparent civil registration.

Why This Policy Matters

NADRA reports that approximately 98.3% of adults are registered, but nearly 1.7% remain without CNICs — many of them women and residents of districts with low birth registration rates.

The new facility is expected to:

• Increase national registration coverage
• Empower undocumented women
• Improve access to voting, banking, and government services
• Strengthen national identity data accuracy

Citizens are encouraged to apply before the December 31, 2026 deadline at their nearest NADRA registration center.