Rehan Shahid 
Dec 17, 2025
The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) on Wednesday announced that if anyone has turned 18, then it is mandatory to get an Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) to provide the identity of being a Pakistani.
On its Facebook post, the authority said: "Under Section 9(1) of the Nadra Ordinance 2000, it is mandatory for every citizen of Pakistan to get an ID card on attaining the age of 18 years.
"Parents or legal guardians must get an ID card on attaining the age of 18 years for their children and As a Pakistani citizen, ensure that all the rights of children are protected," added Nadra.
It is important to note that failure to follow the authority's instructions may result in imprisonment or fine both under Nadra laws. You can easily use Pak-ID mobile application and apply for your ID card from the comfort of your home, rather than standing in long queues for waiting for the turn at the Nadra centre.
Earlier on Monday, Nadra issued an important advisory, advising citizens to collect their CNICs from nearest centre within the given time."According to the policy, if the identity card is not received, it is destroyed 3 months after the due date of delivery," said the authority.
In addition, to avoid any type of inconvenience, the authority advised citizens to use the Pak-ID mobile application or opt for the home delivery service at the time of application. These options allow CNICs to be delivered directly to applicants’ addresses.
