Business Desk 
Aug 10, 2025
In a bid to facilitate foreign Pakistanis, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has unveiled a streamlined and easy process for obtaining the Pakistan Origin Card (POC).
Notably, NADRA POC is particularly designed for overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals with Pakistani roots, aiming to make the process easier for them without any hurdles.
This smart card aims to facilitate foreign nationals who have acquired citizenship in another country but maintain a connection through their Pakistani heritage.
The NADRA POC is available to individuals whose parents, grandparents, or close relatives hold or held Pakistani nationality.
It also extends eligibility to foreign spouses married to Pakistani citizens, making it simple for families abroad to stay connected with Pakistan.
How to apply for NADRA POC
- To start the application, applicants are required to use the Pak ID account of a family member such as a parent, sibling, or child.
- After logging into the Pak ID portal, select the option “Apply for ID Card.”
- Then, select “My blood relative,” choose “No,” and finally opt for “New POC.”
This straightforward process initiates the application request. Notably, the Smart Pakistan Origin Card application will require applicants to give personal information, biometric details, a recent photograph, and relevant supporting documents to verify eligibility.
NADRA POC processing time
The processing time varies depending on the chosen service category:
- Executive Category: Approximately 7 days
- Urgent Category: Around 12 days
- Normal Category: Up to 30 days
Once approved, the Smart Pakistan Origin Card is dispatched directly to the applicant’s provided address for convenience.
Benefits of Smart Pakistan Origin Card
It is worth noting that holding the NADRA POC offers several valuable benefits. Cardholders enjoy visa-free entry into Pakistan and the freedom to live without mandatory local registration.
They can also legally own property in Pakistan, open bank accounts, and access smoother immigration procedures.
Previously, NADRA issued an alert about potential identity theft amid growing concerns over fraudulent platforms pretending to be NADRA to get citizens’ personal information.
