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How to Renew Your CNIC
Your CNIC has expired or is expiring soon. Here's exactly what to bring, what to expect, and how long it takes at any NADRA office.
NADRA⏱ 1–3 hours💰 PKR 350–1,500
- Original expired or expiring CNIC
- Photocopies of your CNIC (front and back)
- If your address has changed: utility bill or property documents for the new address
- If your name has changed: marriage certificate or court affidavit
1
Check if you need to go in person
NADRA's online portal (id.nadra.gov.pk) lets you initiate a renewal and pay fees online, but you still need to visit a NADRA office for biometrics (fingerprints and photo). So yes — you do need to go in person.
2
Gather your documents
Bring your original expired/expiring CNIC plus photocopies. If anything has changed (address, name, marital status), bring supporting documents. Bring extra photocopies — NADRA sometimes needs more than you expect.
3
Go to your nearest NADRA office
Find your closest NADRA office using the Search page. Arrive early — NADRA offices get crowded by mid-morning. The token system typically opens at 9:00 AM.
4
Take a token and wait
At the office, take a numbered token from the machine near the entrance. Wait for your number to be called. Seating is available. Busy offices can take 1–2 hours.
5
Submit your documents at the counter
Hand over your original CNIC and any supporting documents. The staff will verify everything and enter your details into the system.
6
Biometrics and photo
You'll have your fingerprints scanned and a new photo taken at the counter. This is quick — usually 5 minutes.
7
Pay the fee and collect your receipt
Choose your delivery category: Normal (30 days, PKR 350), Urgent (7 days, PKR 750), or Executive (2 days, PKR 1,500). Pay at the office or via the bank challan. Keep your receipt — it has your tracking number.
8
Track and collect
Track your CNIC status at id.nadra.gov.pk using your receipt number. Once ready, collect in person or opt for home delivery (additional fee).
- Arrive before 9 AM — queues build up quickly after 10 AM
- Bring more photocopies than you think you need
- The Executive (2-day) option is worth it if you're travelling soon
- NADRA offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays
- You can renew up to 1 year before expiry — don't wait until it expires
Can someone else collect my CNIC on my behalf?
No. Biometrics require you to be physically present. Someone else cannot complete the renewal for you.
What if my CNIC expired years ago?
The process is the same. Bring your expired CNIC. If you've completely lost it, you'll need to apply for a duplicate instead.
Can I change my address during renewal?
Yes. Bring a utility bill or property document showing your new address. There is no extra fee for address change during renewal.
Is there home delivery?
Yes, NADRA offers home delivery for an additional fee. Ask at the counter or select it on the online portal.
Last updated: 2026-03-20. Requirements and fees can change — always verify with the official office before visiting.