by The National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) has rolled out a comprehensive update to its passport and family documentation policies—marking a significant shift in the identification system for children and households in Pakistan.
🔍 Key Changes: CRC Replaces B‑Form for Passports
- B‑Form no longer accepted: NADRA has officially discontinued the use of the old B‑Form for passport applications. Parents now must provide a Child Registration Certificate (CRC) to apply for a child’s passport.
- Age-specific requirements: For children aged three years and older, the CRC must include a photograph and biometric data. Children under three may still receive the traditional B‑Form, though it’s insufficient for passport issuance.
- NADRA announces new policy for children’s passports.
📁 Legal Status and Structure: Family Registration Certificate (FRC)
- FRC granted legal recognition: The Family Registration Certificate now holds official legal status and may be used in legal contexts such as inheritance claims, court proceedings, and other civil matter .
- New format accommodates diverse families: The FRC now reflects different family structures—including nuclear families, polygamous households, and multi-marriage setups—with each household or marriage registered and detailed separately .
🧬 Enhanced Security: Biometric Integration
- Biometric B‑Forms for older children: From January 15, 2025, NADRA began issuing upgraded B‑Forms that include fingerprint and photograph requirements for children aged 10 to under 18—designed to bolster security and identity verification.
- Purpose: These changes are intended to reduce identity theft, curb fake documentation, and combat human trafficking involving children.
🧾 What Parents Need to Know
- If applying for a child’s passport (age ≥ 3):
- Obtain a Child Registration Certificate (CRC) instead of the traditional B‑Form.
- CRC must contain the child’s photo and biometric info.
- If child is under 3 years old:
- The old B‑Form (without photo/biometrics) can be issued—but cannot be used for passport application.
- Update the Family Registration Certificate (FRC):
- Ensure accuracy in reflecting family members and structure—now legally binding.
- How to apply:
- CRC and FRC are available at NADRA centers and through official channels.
- Parents or legal guardians must accompany children to apply, carrying required CNICs and computerized birth certificates .
✅ Summary Table
| Document | New Requirement | Old Version Valid for Passport? |
|---|---|---|
| Child Registration Certificate (CRC) | Photo + biometric data (ages 3+) | Yes, mandatory for any passport use |
| Old B‑Form | Non‑biometric, non-photo (for under 3 only) | Not accepted for passport applications |
| Family Registration Certificate (FRC) | Legally recognized; revised format for various family types | Now legally valid; used in courts, inheritance |
📝 Why These Updates Matter
These reforms are timely and important:
- Stronger child identity protection: CRC ensures secure, individual identification for minors.
- Legal transparency: The upgraded FRC offers families a unified document to support legal claims, inheritance cases, and more.
- Alignment with global standards: Biometric-enhanced registration brings Pakistan closer to international identity norms.
- Inclusivity in registration: Families of all types—including multi-marriage households and single-parent structures—can now be accurately documented.
Final Thoughts
As of July 2025, NADRA’s new policy means parents planning to apply for children’s passports must first secure a CRC that includes biometric and photographic data. The old B‑Form is no longer acceptable. Additionally, the FRC has been elevated to a legally recognized status—useful in legal proceedings and inheritance matters.
