The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has shared a simple five-step process to replace a lost or damaged CNIC, so citizens who have lost their identity card or whose card is damaged can get a reprint without confusion. The process covers the Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) and the Pakistan Origin Card (POC).
NADRA explained the method in a step-by-step video guide on its official Facebook account. Applicants can either visit a NADRA Registration Centre or, where the service is available, apply online through the PakID mobile application.
Documents Required for a Duplicate CNIC
Your CNIC number: the number of the lost or damaged CNIC, NICOP or POC is the basic requirement for a reprint.
Correct document details: make sure you have the exact identity document number before visiting a NADRA Registration Centre.
Biometric record: NADRA verifies identity through fingerprints, a photograph and an iris scan, so no extra documents are needed for identification in most cases.
How to Replace a Lost or Damaged CNIC in 5 Steps
Step 1 — Get a token: visit a NADRA Registration Centre and take a token from the reception desk, then wait for your turn.
Step 2 — Biometric verification: at the designated counter, NADRA staff will verify your identity using your fingerprints, photograph and iris scan.
Step 3 — Get approval: visit the office in charge, who will review and approve your application under NADRA’s prescribed procedure.
Step 4 — Pay the fee: after approval, pay the required fee; the video guide shows the QR code printed on the token can be scanned to proceed with payment.
Step 5 — Collect your card: keep the receipt safe and collect your replacement card from the same NADRA office after the prescribed processing period ends.
These rates apply to a standard duplicate CNIC. Fees for Smart CNICs, NICOPs and POCs may differ — a Smart NIC duplicate costs Rs 750 for normal processing (about 31 days), Rs 1,500 for urgent (about 23 days) and Rs 2,500 for executive (about 9 days). Applicants should check NADRA’s latest official fee schedule before paying, because the fee depends on the document type and the processing category selected.
Can You Apply for a Duplicate CNIC Online?
Yes. NADRA also offers the PakID mobile application, through which citizens can request reprints of eligible identity documents without visiting a registration centre, where the service is available. The app lets applicants submit their details, complete verification and track their application status. However, NADRA may still ask an applicant to visit a registration centre if additional verification is needed.
For the latest fee schedule and service details, visit the official NADRA website.
Conclusion
Replacing a lost or damaged CNIC is now a clear five-step job: take a token, complete biometric verification, get approval, pay the fee and collect the card. With standard duplicate fees starting at Rs 400 and the PakID app available as an online option, there is no need to pay any agent — follow NADRA’s own process and keep your receipt safe until the card is in your hand.
FAQs
What do I need to replace a lost CNIC? The number of your lost or damaged CNIC is the basic requirement. NADRA verifies your identity through biometrics at the registration centre.
How much does a duplicate CNIC cost? A standard duplicate CNIC costs Rs 400 for normal processing, Rs 1,150 for urgent and Rs 2,150 for executive processing.
How long does a duplicate CNIC take? Standard duplicate CNICs take about 15 days (normal), 12 days (urgent) or 6 days (executive). Smart NIC duplicates take longer: about 31, 23 and 9 days respectively.
Can I apply for a duplicate CNIC online? Yes, through NADRA’s PakID mobile application where the service is available, though NADRA may still require a registration-centre visit for additional verification.
Shahzad Sahil is the editor of lahorejobs24.com, covering government jobs, private jobs, bank jobs, results and education news for Lahore and Punjab, with information verified from official sources.
