The government of Pakistan has announced a significant initiative, offering the first Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) free of charge. Citizens who turn 18 or do not yet possess a CNIC can now visit any NADRA center to complete the process and obtain their first ID card within 15 days. This move aims to encourage more people to register and participate in national activities, including voting in elections.
According to NADRA, the free service will only apply to the first CNIC issued. Afterward, citizens will need to pay renewal fees for subsequent CNICs. The new initiative is designed to simplify the process and ensure that more people are officially recognized by the government, especially as they gain the legal right to vote at the age of 18.
Alongside the free CNIC offer, NADRA has updated its fee structure for CNIC renewals. The cost of renewing a CNIC varies based on urgency, with normal processing priced at Rs 400 and completed within 15 days. Urgent renewals cost Rs 1,150, processed in 12 days, while the executive service, which delivers the CNIC in six days, is priced at Rs 2,150.
Similarly, NADRA has set fees for the renewal of Smart National Identity Cards (Smart NICs). A normal Smart NIC renewal will cost Rs 750 and take 31 days. The urgent service costs Rs 1,500 and takes 15 days, while the executive service for Smart NIC renewal will cost Rs 2,500 and be processed within nine days.
These updates offer citizens flexibility in choosing between different processing speeds and costs. For those in a hurry, the executive options allow for expedited services, while the normal and urgent categories cater to varying needs. NADRA encourages citizens to apply according to their personal requirements and preferences, ensuring the process is as convenient as possible.
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