The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued an important reminder for all Pakistani citizens: you must collect your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) within three months of its issuance. Failing to do so will result in your card being cancelled and destroyed, forcing you to go through the application process all over again.
This policy aims to address significant storage challenges and mitigate identity-related security risks posed by a large volume of uncollected cards. Understanding these rules is crucial for ensuring you have uninterrupted access to your official identification, which is essential for everything from banking to voting.
This post will cover everything you need to know about the CNIC collection deadline, the consequences of not picking up your card, and how to properly manage family records.
The 3-Month Collection Deadline
When your CNIC is ready, you have a 90-day window to collect it from the designated NADRA registration center. This policy is strictly enforced. If you do not retrieve your card within this three-month period, NADRA will proceed with its cancellation.
What Happens to Uncollected Cards?
According to NADRA’s official policy, any CNIC that remains uncollected after three months is permanently cancelled and then destroyed. This measure is in place for several key reasons:
- Storage Issues: Thousands of uncollected cards create significant logistical and storage problems for NADRA centers across the country.
- Security Risks: Unclaimed identity cards are a security liability. They can be misused for fraudulent activities or fall into the wrong hands, posing a risk to both the individual and national security.
By destroying these cards, NADRA ensures that your personal information remains secure and prevents potential identity theft.
Reapplying for a Cancelled CNIC
If your CNIC is cancelled because you failed to collect it in time, you cannot simply request the old card. Instead, you must start the entire application process from the beginning. This involves:
- Submitting a New Application: You will need to fill out a new application form and provide all the required documentation again.
- Paying the Full Fee: The standard application fee will be charged. There are no waivers or discounts for those reapplying under these circumstances.
This process not only costs you money but also time, as you will have to wait for the new card to be processed and issued. To avoid this inconvenience, it is essential to collect your CNIC as soon as you are notified that it is ready.
Important: Update Family Records for Deceased Members
In addition to the collection deadline, NADRA has also emphasized the importance of keeping family records up to date. It is the legal and moral responsibility of the head of the family to report the passing of a family member to NADRA.
Updating these records is a straightforward process and helps prevent the misuse of a deceased person’s identity. You can update the records by:
- Visiting a NADRA Registration Center.
- Using the Pak Identity mobile application.
Properly registering a death certificate ensures that the deceased individual’s CNIC is officially cancelled in the national database, safeguarding their identity from potential fraud.
Your Next Steps
To avoid any complications, make sure you are aware of your CNIC’s status and collection timeline. If you have applied for a new card or a renewal, stay in contact with your NADRA center and pick it up promptly.
- Collect Your Card: If your CNIC is ready, collect it within three months to avoid cancellation.
- Update Family Records: If a family member has passed away, visit a NADRA center or use the Pak ID app to update their record and cancel their CNIC.
Following these guidelines will ensure your information is secure and save you from the hassle of reapplying.
