How to Get Your NADRA Urgent ID Card – Fees and Processing Time Explained

Introduction

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) plays a vital role in Pakistan by providing National Identity Cards (NIC) to citizens, which are essential for accessing various services such as banking, obtaining passports, and participating in official government processes. NADRA offers different categories of identity cards to cater to the needs of the public based on urgency.

Categories of NADRA Services:

NADRA offers three service levels for issuing National Identity Cards (CNIC and Smart NIC):

1. Normal Service:
   • Fee: PKR 750
   • Processing time: 30 days
   • This is for citizens not in a hurry to get their identity card.
2. Urgent Service:
   • Fee: PKR 1,500
   • Processing time: 15 days
   • This option is suitable for individuals who need their card more quickly, such as for job applications, travel, or other time-sensitive needs​.
3. Executive Service:
   • Fee: PKR 2,500
   • Processing time: 7 days
   • This is the fastest option and ideal for those requiring their card immediately.

Example of Service Levels and Fees:

This structure helps citizens choose the best option depending on how quickly they need their ID card. Each service is designed to ensure flexibility while maintaining the accuracy and security of personal data.

Fee Structure for NADRA Urgent ID Cards 2024

NADRA offers three types of ID card services based on urgency, each with its fee structure. These services help you get your ID card based on how quickly you need it:

1. Normal Service:
   • Fee: PKR 750
   • Processing Time: 30 days
     This is the most affordable option, ideal for people who do not need the card urgently.
2. Urgent Service:
   • Fee: PKR 1,500
   • Processing Time: 15 days
     This option is suitable for those who need their ID card sooner, such as for job applications or travel needs.
3. Executive Service:
   • Fee: PKR 2,500
   • Processing Time: 7 days
     The fastest option available is perfect for those who require their ID card urgently for immediate use.

Example of NADRA Fees

These fees are consistent for both new ID cards and renewal services. Changes in fees have been minimal, ensuring affordability for all Pakistani citizens.

Processing Time for NADRA Urgent ID Cards

NADRA provides three service levels for issuing ID cards, each with a different processing time based on the urgency of the request. Here’s how the processing times break down:

1. Normal ID Card:
   • Processing Time: 30 days
   • This service is for people who do not need their ID card urgently and prefer the most affordable option.
2. Urgent ID Card:
   • Processing Time: 15 days
   • Recently, NADRA reduced the delivery time for urgent ID cards from 23 days to 15 days. This service is ideal for those needing faster access to their ID card without the need to pay extra fees beyond the urgent service charges.
3. Executive ID Card:
   • Processing Time: 7 days
   • The fastest option is designed for individuals who need their ID cards very quickly.

Example for Processing Times

These changes have significantly improved the efficiency of urgent services, helping citizens get their ID cards faster, especially when they are needed for travel or job requirements. The fee structure remains unchanged for these categories​.

How to Apply for NADRA Urgent ID Cards

Applying for a NADRA urgent ID card is a simple process. Whether you choose to apply online via the Pak Identity website or visit a NADRA Registration Center (NRC), the steps are easy to follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Applying Online via Pak Identity
   • Register an account on the Pak Identity website.
   • Fill in the application form: Choose the relevant ID card type (urgent, executive), and provide your details.
   • Upload your documents: Submit scanned copies of your CNIC, photograph, and any other required documents.
   • Payment: Pay the fee online via credit/debit card.
   • Once the application is processed, you can opt for home delivery or pick up the ID card at a nearby NRC​.
2. Applying at a NADRA Registration Center (NRC)
   • Visit your nearest NRC with the required documents.
   • Complete the biometric verification and submit your documents.
   • Payment can be made directly at the NRC via cash or other available options.
   • You will receive a receipt with your tracking ID and the expected delivery date.

Documents Required:

• Current CNIC or B-form (if applicable).
• Photograph (if applying online).
• Proof of residence (optional in some cases).
• Payment proof (for online applications).

Payment Options:

• Online payment via credit or debit card for online applications.
• Cash or bank deposit at NADRA Registration Centers for in-person applications​.

Example of Application Steps

With NADRA’s services, applying for an urgent ID card has become easier and more accessible, ensuring that citizens can obtain their ID quickly without facing long delays.

Why Choose Urgent or Executive Service?

When applying for a NADRA ID card, choosing the Urgent or Executive service can save time and effort, especially when you’re dealing with time-sensitive situations. Here’s why these services are beneficial:

1. Situations Where Urgent or Executive ID Cards Are Necessary

• Travel: If you need to travel abroad or within Pakistan and require an updated ID card for visas or identification purposes, the Urgent (15 days) or Executive (7 days) service is a better choice.
• Job Requirements: Certain employers or job applications may require a valid ID card quickly, making the Urgent or Executive option ideal for meeting deadlines.
• Banking & Legal Needs: For tasks like opening a bank account, applying for loans, or dealing with legal documentation, having an up-to-date ID card is essential. These faster services ensure you won’t face delays in critical matters​.

2. Benefits of Faster Processing

• Quick Turnaround: The most obvious advantage is the speed. While normal processing takes 30 days, urgent processing cuts it to 15 days, and executive service offers the fastest delivery in 7 days.
• Avoiding Delays: In situations where time is of the essence, like securing a passport or completing official paperwork, faster service ensures you don’t face unnecessary setbacks.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your ID card will arrive quickly provides assurance, especially if there’s a tight deadline for travel or work​.

Example of Benefits

Choosing the right service depends on how quickly you need the card. Opting for urgent or executive services helps avoid stress when you need the ID card for critical tasks.

Additional Charges for NADRA Services

When applying for a NADRA ID card, there may be additional charges beyond the standard fee for obtaining or renewing the card. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Delivery Charges

For those applying online via the Pak Identity portal, NADRA does not include delivery charges in the initial application fee. The ID card delivery to your doorstep may incur extra costs depending on your location and the selected service (normal, urgent, or executive).

2. Duplicate or Replacement ID Cards

If you lose your ID card or need a replacement due to damage or any other reason, NADRA charges a separate fee:

• Normal replacement: PKR 1,000
• Urgent replacement: PKR 2,500
• Executive replacement: PKR 3,500
  These fees vary depending on the urgency of the service you choose for the replacement.

Example of Additional Charges

These charges help cover the costs of service and ensure a smooth process for obtaining and replacing ID cards when needed. Make sure to check for any specific delivery fees when applying online.

Conclusion

Choosing Urgent or Executive services from NADRA offers significant advantages, especially when you need your ID card quickly for urgent tasks like travel, job applications, or legal matters. These services provide faster processing times, helping you avoid delays and ensuring you get your card within 7 to 15 days, depending on the service you choose.

To avoid stress and potential delays, it’s always a good idea to apply as early as possible, especially if you anticipate needing your ID card for important deadlines.

Applying early ensures that you won’t face last-minute rushes, and opting for urgent or executive services gives peace of mind when time is of the essence.