Latest Update NADRA Warns Citizens to Collect CNICs Within 3 Months
NADRA Warns Citizens to Collect CNICs
NADRA Warns Citizens to Collect CNICs,The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has released an important nationwide advisory urging citizens to collect their Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) immediately after processing. According to the latest updates, thousands of CNICs remain unclaimed at NADRA centres across Pakistan, creating database management issues and increasing the risk of identity misuse.To address this growing concern, NADRA has reinforced its policy: any CNIC left uncollected for more than 3 months will be cancelled and destroyed. Citizens who do not pick up their card within the allowed timeframe will be required to apply again and pay the full fee for a new CNIC.This updated guideline aims to ensure proper record-keeping, prevent fraudulent use of uncollected ID cards, and maintain the integrity of Pakistan’s national identity system.
Why NADRA Is Urging Immediate CNIC Collection
NADRA’s latest notification highlights a critical issue — thousands of printed CNICs are lying unattended at various registration centres. These uncollected cards pose multiple risks, including:
- Identity theft or misuse
- Administrative difficulties in managing inactive cards
- Inaccurate population and identity records
- Delays in database updates for votes, benefits, and legal documentation
By enforcing the 3-month rule, NADRA aims to streamline identity management and strengthen the country’s digital database.
What Happens If You Don’t Collect Your CNIC on Time?
Under the current NADRA policy:
- CNICs ready for delivery must be collected within 90 days.
- If the card remains unclaimed, it is destroyed according to security protocols.
- The citizen must reapply for a new CNIC.
- A new fee is charged — no discount or concession is offered for previously uncollected cards.
This policy applies equally to new CNIC applications, renewals, and modifications.
Guidelines for Families of Deceased Persons
NADRA has also advised citizens to update the record of any deceased family member immediately. This can be done through:
- The nearest NADRA Registration Centre
- The Pak-ID Mobile App for easy online updates
Prompt records help prevent identity misuse and ensure that voting lists, government databases, and welfare programmes remain accurate.
How to Check If Your CNIC Is Ready for Collection
Citizens can verify the status of their CNIC using any of the following methods:
- Call 1777 (for mobile users) or 051-111-786-100 to check the status.
- Login at the official portal with your credentials to track the card status.
- Send your tracking ID to 8400 for instant status updates.
Important CNIC Collection Details (Table)
| Details | Information |
| CNIC Collection Deadline | 3 months (90 days) |
| Policy for Uncollected CNICs | Cancelled & destroyed |
| Reapplication Requirement | Yes, full fee required |
| Where to Collect | Any NADRA Registration Centre |
| Record Update for Deceased Family Members | NADRA Centre or Pak-ID App |
| Check CNIC Status | Helpline, SMS (8400), Pak-ID Portal |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if I cannot collect my CNIC within 3 months due to travel?
If you are travelling abroad or unable to collect the CNIC on time, you should authorize a close family member to collect it on your behalf. They must provide proof of identity and consent.
2. Do I need to pay the fee again if my CNIC is destroyed after 3 months?
Yes. NADRA does not provide any concession for uncollected cards. Once destroyed, you must submit a new application and pay the full fee.
3. Can I check the status of someone else’s CNIC (e.g., family member)?
Yes, but only if you have their tracking ID or if you accompany them to the NADRA centre with proper identification.
Final Words
NADRA’s updated 3-month collection policy is designed to safeguard citizens, maintain an accurate national identity database, and reduce the risk of identity misuse. If your CNIC is ready, collect it immediately to avoid cancellation, extra fees, and unnecessary delays. Staying proactive ensures that your records remain secure and up to date.
