Aadhaar in India, But What Identity Card Does Pakistan Use? See Its Design and Features

Every country has a unique identification system to verify its citizens. In India, the Aadhaar card serves as the primary ID, but in Pakistan, the Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) plays a similar role. Issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), the CNIC is a mandatory identification document for all Pakistani citizens above the age of 18.

Aadhaar in India

Pakistan’s CNIC and SNIC systems ensure secure identification for its citizens. With advanced biometric security, digital verification, and fraud prevention, these identity cards play a crucial role in public and private sectors.

Whether you’re a resident or living abroad, having a valid CNIC, SNIC, or NICOP is essential for legal and financial transactions in Pakistan. If you need to apply or renew your card, visit the official NADRA website for the latest updates and services.

Also Check: Now Toll Tax Will Be Deducted Even Without FASTag Balance! NHAI’s New Technology Makes It Unavoidable

Aadhaar in India: Understanding the Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC)

What is the CNIC?

The CNIC is the official identity card issued by the Pakistani government to its citizens. It is essential for accessing public and private services, including:

1. Voting in elections.
2. Applying for a passport and visa.
3. Opening a bank account.
4. Buying or selling property.
5. Registering a mobile SIM card.

Design & Security Features

The CNIC is designed with multiple security features to ensure authenticity and prevent fraud.

Front Side of CNIC

1. Full Name (In both English and Urdu).
2. Father’s/Husband’s Name (Mentioned based on gender and marital status).
3. Gender (M for Male, F for Female, X for Transgender).
4. 13-digit Unique Identity Number.
5. Date of Birth (DD-MM-YYYY Format).
6. Photograph of the cardholder.
7. Date of Issue and Expiry (Lifetime validity for citizens above 60).
8. Holder’s Signature.

Back Side of CNIC

1. Permanent and Current Address.
2. QR Code for digital authentication.
3. Card Serial Number.
4. Machine-Readable Zone for automated identity verification.

Aadhaar in India: Introduction of the Smart National Identity Card (SNIC)

In 2012, Pakistan introduced the Smart National Identity Card (SNIC) as an upgraded version of the CNIC.

Why was SNIC Introduced?

1. Enhanced security with biometric authentication.
2. Microchip integration for digital verification.
3. Improved fraud prevention and encryption features.
4. Global compatibility with ICAO & ISO standards.

Also Check: DOGE Cracks Down on Social Security Fraud – AI on the Hunt for Scammers

Aadhaar in India: National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)

For Pakistani citizens residing abroad, NADRA issues the NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis). This card:

1. Allows visa-free entry into Pakistan.
2. Grants dual nationality privileges in eligible countries.
3. Works as an identity document for legal transactions in Pakistan.

Aadhaar in India: How to Apply for CNIC or SNIC?

Applying for a CNIC or SNIC is simple. Follow these steps:

Visit a NADRA Registration Center

1. Locate your nearest NADRA center using the official NADRA website.

Provide Required Documents

1. Birth certificate or B-Form (if applying for the first time).
2. Parents’ CNIC copies.
3. Proof of residence.

Biometric Verification

1. Fingerprints and photograph are taken for digital records.
2. Signature is collected for verification.

Processing & Collection

1. Standard Processing Time: 30 days.
2. Urgent Processing: 7-10 days.
3. Executive Processing: 24-48 hours (additional charges apply).

Aadhaar in India: Fees for CNIC and SNIC

For updated fees, check the official NADRA website.

Also Check: Shocking Betrayal: Active-Duty U.S. Army Soldier Caught Selling Classified Info to China

Aadhaar in India (FAQs)