First ID Card Requirements Pakistan Step by Step Made Easy

Getting your first NADRA ID card (CNIC) is one of the most important steps in becoming a recognized citizen of Pakistan. The Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) is not just an identity document it is the key to accessing government services, education, employment, voting rights, banking, and even international travel.

If you’re applying for your first CNIC, you might feel a little overwhelmed with the documents, process, and fees. Don’t worry this guide will break down everything you need to know about NADRA first ID card requirements, including eligibility, mandatory documents, step-by-step application process, fees, and common mistakes to avoid.

What is NADRA’s First ID Card?

A first NADRA ID card (CNIC) is the initial Computerized National Identity Card issued to Pakistani citizens once they turn 18 years old. It officially registers you as an adult citizen of Pakistan and gives you access to:

• Voting in national and local elections
• Applying for a passport
• Admission in universities
• Getting a driving license
• Registering a SIM card or bank account

Difference between first CNIC and other types:

• First CNIC: Issued at the age of 18 for the first time.
• Renewal CNIC: When your card expires (usually after 10 years).
• Child Registration (B-Form): For children under 18 years, issued as proof of birth and parentage.

NADRA First ID Card Requirements 2025

Before you head to the NADRA Registration Center (NRC), make sure you’re aware of the eligibility and documents required.

Age Eligibility for First CNIC

• The minimum age to apply for a first CNIC is 18 years.
• However, in certain cases, it may be required earlier:
  
  • Applying for a passport
  • Employment purposes
  • Higher education enrollment

Mandatory Documents for First NADRA ID Card

Here’s a list of required documents you’ll need:

• Birth Certificate
• B-Form (Child Registration Certificate) 
• Father’s or Mother’s CNIC
• Matriculation or Intermediate Certificate
• In case of orphans

Quick Table: Documents Needed

Required Document	Purpose
Birth Certificate	Confirms date of birth
B-Form (CRC)	Proof of child registration
Parent’s CNIC	Confirms family linkage
Matric Certificate (optional)	Secondary verification of age
Guardianship papers (if orphan)	Proof of legal guardian relationship

Photographs and Biometric Verification

• You must appear in person at the NADRA Registration Center.
  
• Biometric verification includes:
  • Live photograph capture
  • Thumb impressions (all fingers scanned)
  • Digital signatures

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Your First NADRA ID Card

Here’s a complete process explained step-by-step:

1. Visit NADRA Registration Center (NRC)

• Locate the nearest NRC through the NADRA website.
• Bring all required documents.

2. Fill in the Application Form

• Available at the center (digital entry).
• Double-check spellings of your name, father’s name, and date of birth.
• Pro Tip: Mistakes at this stage cause delays.

3. Biometric & Photograph Capture

• A NADRA officer will take your photograph.
• Fingerprints of both hands are scanned.
• Digital signature is recorded.

4. Verification by NADRA Officer

• A parent or guardian’s presence is often required.
• The officer verifies all documents and family details.
• After approval, you’ll get a receipt with tracking details.

NADRA First ID Card Fees 2025

The fees depend on the urgency of processing.

 NADRA CNIC Fee Chart (2025)

Category	Normal	Urgent	Executive
First CNIC	Free	Free	Free
CNIC Renewal	Rs. 400	Rs. 1150	Rs. 2150
Smart CNIC	Rs. 750	Rs. 1500	Rs. 2500

Good news: Your first NADRA CNIC is free of cost 

Processing Time for First CNIC

• Normal Processing: 7–10 working days
• Urgent Processing: 3–5 working days
• Executive Processing: 2–3 working days

NADRA also provides an SMS tracking service. You can send your receipt number to 8400 to track the status of your CNIC.

NADRA First ID Card Online Application 

One of the most common questions is: Can I apply for my first CNIC online?

• The answer is No  for the first CNIC, you must visit a NADRA Registration Center in person.
• The Pak-ID portal (NADRA’s online system) only supports renewals, modifications, and duplicate CNIC applications.
• For Smart CNIC or NICOP (for overseas Pakistanis), you can use the Pak Identity Mobile App, but not for the first CNIC.

NADRA First ID Card for Overseas Pakistanis

For Pakistanis living abroad, NADRA issues the NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis).

Requirements for Overseas Applicants

• Pakistani Birth Certificate or valid Passport
• Parent’s CNIC copy
• Proof of residence abroad (Visa, PR Card, etc.)

Delivery Options

• Collection at NADRA desks in embassies
• International courier delivery

Case Study: Ali’s First NADRA CNIC Experience

Ali, an 18-year-old from Lahore, recently applied for his first CNIC. He carried his birth certificate, B-Form, and his mother’s CNIC. At the NRC, he filled out the form, gave his biometric data, and received a tracking receipt. Within 8 days, he received his CNIC free of cost.

Ali shared:

“The process was smoother than expected. My only advice: double-check your documents before going, and make sure a parent is available for verification.”

Final Thoughts

Applying for your first NADRA ID card is not complicated if you know the process. Just remember:

• You must be 18 years old to apply.
• Carry your birth certificate, B-form, and parent’s CNIC.
• First CNIC is completely free.
• In-person biometric verification is mandatory.

By understanding the NADRA first ID card requirements, you’ll save time, avoid mistakes, and get your CNIC without unnecessary delays.

FAQS Related First ID Card Requirements Pakistan