NADRA Launches Locally Made CNIC With Secure QR Code

Overview

• NADRA began issuing the new chipless CNIC on Friday with a secure QR code that stores a holder’s photo and identity data for smartphone verification.
• The polycarbonate card is manufactured in Karachi by the National Security Printing Company under NADRA specifications to cut dependence on foreign microchips.
• The QR code embeds names, addresses and a photograph to speed data capture and reduce manual entry errors when institutions scan the card.
• Telecoms, banks, hospitals, Pakistan Railways and police will receive NADRA’s verification software so authorised organisations can read and confirm QR-code IDs.
• The rollout is phased: the CNIC began first, issuance will extend to NICOP and Juvenile Cards from January 2027 with POC moved last, and existing IDs remain valid until their stamped expiry dates.