by In a major development aimed at improving public service delivery, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has officially announced a significant reduction in the delivery time for Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). This initiative is set to benefit millions of Pakistani citizens by providing faster access to a crucial identity document that plays a vital role in everyday life — from voting and banking to employment and travel.
📌 What’s Changing?
NADRA has reduced the standard processing time for both new CNIC applications and renewals. Here’s what citizens can now expect:
- Normal CNIC Delivery: Previously 30 days ➡️ Now 10–15 working days
- Urgent CNIC Delivery: Previously 15 days ➡️ Now 5–7 working days
- Executive CNIC Delivery: Previously 7 days ➡️ Now 2–3 working days
This accelerated timeline is being implemented across NADRA centers nationwide, including mega centers, mobile vans, and e-facilitation kiosks.
⚙️ What Enabled the Faster Processing?
According to NADRA Chairman Lt. Gen. Munir Afsar (Retd), the decision was driven by the authority’s recent digital upgrades, improved internal workflow, and integration of real-time biometric verification systems. The digitization efforts have eliminated many manual steps, allowing for quicker processing without compromising accuracy or security.
“Our mission is to serve the public efficiently and transparently. With our upgraded systems and staff training, we’re now able to deliver CNICs much faster,” he stated in a recent press release.
💡 How This Helps Citizens
This move comes as a relief to countless applicants who often face delays due to paperwork, backlog, or logistic issues. Faster CNIC delivery is especially critical for:
- Job seekers who need identification for employment documentation.
- Students applying for scholarships or university admission.
- Voters looking to register ahead of upcoming elections.
- Travelers applying for passports and visas.
- Banking customers needing CNICs for account opening and transactions.
- NADRA cuts CNIC delivery time.
✅ How to Apply for a CNIC Faster
Citizens can still choose between Normal, Urgent, or Executive service depending on their needs and budget. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the nearest NADRA Registration Center or use the Pak-ID online portal.
- Bring necessary documents (birth certificate, B-form, or old CNIC for renewal).
- Select your desired processing type.
- Track your application status via NADRA’s SMS service or website.
💬 Public Reaction
The public has largely welcomed the announcement, especially those in remote areas where delays in CNIC issuance caused issues in accessing government aid, banking services, and digital platforms. Social media is abuzz with praise, while citizens hope that similar efficiency reforms will be extended to other government services.
With this decision, NADRA continues its journey toward modernization and improved citizen facilitation. As technology drives faster workflows, it’s heartening to see tangible impacts in essential public services — making everyday life just a bit easier for Pakistanis.
