Is there a mistake in your name on your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)? An incorrect name on this crucial document can lead to significant issues with banking, property, travel, and legal matters. Fortunately, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has a clear process for correcting these errors.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NADRA CNIC name correction process. We’ll cover the necessary documents, the step-by-step procedure, and the associated fees, so you can get your identity card updated quickly and without hassle.
Why Correcting Your Name is Important
Your CNIC is your primary identification document in Pakistan and for Pakistanis abroad. It’s used for everything from opening a bank account and voting to applying for a passport and registering a SIM card.
A discrepancy between the name on your CNIC and your other documents (like your birth certificate, passport, or academic records) can create confusion and cause serious complications. Ensuring your name is spelled correctly is essential for maintaining a consistent and valid legal identity.
Required Documents for Name Correction
Before starting the process, you’ll need to gather specific documents to support your name change request. The exact documents may vary slightly depending on your individual case, but you will generally need the following:
- Original CNIC/NICOP: You must present your current, original identity card.
- Supporting Document: A valid document that shows the correct spelling of your name. This could be:
- Matriculation (Matric) Certificate
- Birth Certificate
- Passport (with the correct name)
- Educational Degrees or Transcripts
- Newspaper Advertisement (in some cases): For significant name changes, NADRA may require you to publish a notice in two national daily newspapers (one in Urdu and one in English) announcing the correction. This publicly declares the name change.Keep the original newspaper clippings as proof.
- Affidavit: You will need to submit a signed affidavit on stamp paper, formally declaring the name correction. This is a legal statement affirming that you are changing your name and that the information provided is true.
It’s always a good idea to bring both the original documents and photocopies with you to the NADRA center.
How to Correct Your Name: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process for correcting your name on your CNIC involves a visit to a NADRA Registration Center. While some services are available online, a name change requires in-person verification.
Here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Visit a NADRA Registration Center
Find the nearest NADRA Registration Center (NRC). It’s best to go early in the day to avoid long queues. Upon arrival, you will be guided to the appropriate counter for CNIC modifications.
Step 2: Get a Token
You will be issued a token for your turn. Keep this token safe as it will be called when it’s your turn to be processed.
Step 3: Biometric Verification and Photograph
Once your token number is called, a NADRA representative will capture your photograph and take your biometric data (fingerprints). This is a standard security measure to verify your identity.
Step 4: Submit Your Documents
Present your original CNIC and all the required supporting documents to the NADRA official. They will review the documents to ensure everything is in order and scan them into the system. Be prepared to explain the reason for the name correction.
Step 5: Application Processing and Fee Payment
The NADRA official will enter the corrected name into the system based on your supporting documents. You will be asked to review the information on the screen to confirm its accuracy.
After confirmation, you will need to pay the required fee for the CNIC modification. The fee depends on how quickly you need the new card.
Step 6: Receive Your New CNIC
Once the process is complete, you will be given a tracking ID on your receipt. You can use this ID to track the status of your application online. Your new, corrected CNIC will be delivered to your registered address or can be collected from the NADRA center after the specified processing time.
NADRA CNIC Name Correction Fees
The fee for a CNIC modification, including a name correction, varies based on the service’s urgency. As of 2024, the fee structure is generally as follows:
- Normal: PKR 750 (Processing time is approximately 30 working days)
- Urgent: PKR 1,500 (Processing time is approximately 20 working days)
- Executive: PKR 2,500 (Processing time is approximately 10 working days)
Please note that these fees are subject to change. It is always best to confirm the current fee structure on the official NADRA website or at the registration center at the time of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I correct my name on the NADRA website?
No, a name correction requires you to visit a NADRA Registration Center in person. This is because it is a significant modification that requires physical document verification and biometrics.
How long does it take to get the new CNIC?
The processing time depends on the service you choose. The normal service takes about a month, while the urgent and executive services are faster, taking around 20 and 10 working days, respectively.
What if I don’t have a Matriculation certificate?
If you do not have a Matric certificate, other documents like a valid passport, birth certificate, or a degree certificate showing the correct name can be used. If you have no official documents, you may need to provide a newspaper advertisement and a more detailed affidavit.
Does correcting my name on the CNIC automatically update it elsewhere?
No. Once you receive your corrected CNIC, you will need to update your name on other official documents and records, such as your bank accounts, driver’s license, property documents, and utility bills.
Finalize Your Identity
Correcting your name on your NADRA CNIC is a straightforward but essential process. By preparing your documents in advance and understanding the steps involved, you can ensure a smooth experience. A corrected CNIC not only prevents future administrative headaches but also gives you the peace of mind that your official identity is accurate and secure.
If you have further questions, you can always visit the official NADRA website or contact their helpline for the most current information.
