On August 9, 2025, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) highlighted the importance for Pakistani citizens planning to move abroad for work, study, or residency to obtain a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).
The essential document serves as a legal identity for Pakistanis living overseas, enabling visa-free entry to Pakistan for dual nationals and access to services. Children born abroad to Pakistani parents also qualify, provided their foreign passport details are submitted.
The NICOP is more than a formality; it ensures legal recognition, seamless travel, and access to Pakistani services. It connects overseas Pakistanis to their homeland, facilitating tasks like property transactions and banking. NADRA’s push highlights the growing trend of emigration and the need for a unified identity system, aligning with global standards.
Application Process and Options
Applicants can obtain a NICOP through:
- NADRA Registration Centres in Pakistan
- Pakistani embassies or consulates abroad
- NADRA’s online Pak Identity platform
The process at NADRA centres involves:
- Obtaining a token
- Photograph capture
- Biometric data collection
- Form review and submission
For convenience, the Pak Identity platform allows online applications, ideal for those without nearby centres. This digital option reflects NADRA’s recent Pak ID app update, enhancing identity services, per Dawn.
NICOP Fee Structure for 2025
Fees vary by region and urgency, applicable to Europe and Western countries:
- Normal: PKR 11,340
- Urgent: PKR 16,589
- Executive: PKR 21,820
These costs ensure efficient processing, catering to the diverse needs of overseas Pakistanis. NADRA’s NICOP initiative supports Pakistanis abroad, ensuring legal identity and connectivity. It strengthens diaspora ties and streamlines services amid rising emigration.
