Business Desk 
Jun 23, 2025
The federal government has approved major amendments to the National Identity Card (NIC) Rules, 2002, announcing greater flexibility and security in Pakistan’s identity documentation system.
The changes, proposed by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, include a major shift for married women, who will now have the option to display either their father’s or husband’s name on their CNICs.
Moreover, the updated rules focus on enhancing the issuance process for Child Registration Certificates (Form B), now requiring birth registration with the Union Council as a precondition.
Depending on age, different identification standards will be implemented to ensure a secure and reliable record-keeping system.
Meanwhile, form B documents will now include an expiry date, a feature aimed at maintaining up-to-date identity records.
Officials have clarified that previously issued CRCs will still be valid unless needed for passport applications, while there will be no change in the fee structure.
The government has advised against misreporting, stating that legal action may be taken in such cases. Families will also be allowed to include unregistered members through a process of correction and verification.
These reforms mark a significant step toward a secure, inclusive, and transparent identity system in Pakistan.
By prioritising citizen’s will and data integrity, the government aims to align national documentation with international standards while addressing the evolving needs of its population.
