-
-
Following a directive from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to modernize identity systems, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced major changes to CNIC, FRC, and B-Form rules across Pakistan.
The Federal Cabinet approved amendments to the National Identity Card Rules, 2002, aligning them with today’s security, verification, and documentation requirements to prevent misuse and improve efficiency.
For the Child Registration Certificate (CRC/B-Form), birth registration with the Union Council is now mandatory before issuance. Children under three are exempt from biometrics and photographs under the new rules.
Children aged three to ten must now submit a photograph and iris scan if available, while those aged ten to eighteen must provide fingerprints, IRIS scans, and photos.
Every child will now receive a CRC with a validity period, strengthening identity tracking and helping prevent illegal registrations, misuse, and child trafficking.
The Family Registration Certificate (FRC) now has legal status. Citizens must submit an undertaking confirming the accuracy of information, and NADRA will issue FRCs based only on its verified data.
Three family types are defined: Alpha (by birth), Beta (by marriage), and Gamma (by adoption). Married men with multiple spouses will have all relationships clearly listed for transparency.
Women can now choose whether to display their father’s or husband’s name on their CNICs, a step aimed at empowering them with identity flexibility.
Teslin cards, a cost-effective ID solution, have been upgraded with smart card features like QR codes and bilingual information, without any extra fee or longer processing times.
Verification boards must now resolve document-related issues – like cancellation or confiscation – within 30 days. This rule applies to identity cards and certificates (FRC and CRC).
A voluntary correction facility allows citizens to report wrong data for legal protection. The new rules aim to curb fake identities and align institutional policies nationwide.
