ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior issued a NICOP entry ban for Pakistani dual nationals and overseas Pakistanis travelling on expired National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis cards.
The ministry directed immigration authorities to implement the new travel guidelines at all airports in Pakistan.
Overseas Pakistanis must renew their NICOP before travel if the card has expired. Travellers also need valid travel documents for entry into Pakistan.
The National Database and Registration Authority says NICOP serves citizens living abroad and allows eligible overseas Pakistanis to enter Pakistan without a visa.
NADRA says it currently issues Smart NICOP cards with a secure microchip, enhanced security features and improved durability. It also offers QR code-enabled NICOP cards for faster verification of cardholder data.
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NADRA says it no longer issues new Teslin-based NICOP cards.
The federal government earlier notified identity-rule upgrades that introduced QR-based verification and stronger fraud controls across identity documents, including overseas Pakistani cards.
NADRA introduced the upgraded NICOP format on July 11, 2026. The card falls under Section 12 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000.
