NADRA shares update on signature rule for CNIC applicants

LAHORE – The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has clarified that signing is optional when applying for a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) for the first time. Applicants who do not sign, or are unable to sign due to illiteracy, will have “N/A” printed in the signature field of their CNIC. To prevent misuse or forgery, fingerprints or any other marks are not printed in place of a signature. NADRA has also advised applicants using the mobile app not to upload images of fingerprints or other marks, as doing so may delay the processing of their application. For individuals who already have a CNIC and wish to add or update a signature, a Modification Request can be submitted. Signatures can also be updated during CNIC renewal. CNIC Fee Update The registration authority has announced that citizens applying for their first-ever national identity card can now obtain it for free. The initiative allows individuals to receive their first non-smart chip identity card at no cost, simply by visiting a NADRA center. Citizens can get their cards within 15 days without any fees. However, for an Urgent category, the timeline is 12 days, and the cost is Rs1,150. For an Executive category, the timeline is 6 days, and the cost is Rs2,150.