How Overseas Pakistanis Can Apply for a NICOP in 2026

Overseas Pakistanis can apply for a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) without visiting Pakistan. The application can be completed online through NADRA’s official PakID mobile app or by visiting a designated NADRA Registration Center.

NICOP is issued to eligible Pakistani citizens living abroad and serves as proof of Pakistani nationality. It also allows eligible cardholders to travel to Pakistan without obtaining a visa.

NADRA accepts applications for new NICOPs, renewals, modifications, and replacement cards through the PakID platform.

What Is a NICOP?

A National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is an identity document issued by NADRA to Pakistani citizens who live, work, or study outside Pakistan.

The card contains the holder’s personal and family information and is accepted as official proof of Pakistani nationality. NADRA currently issues the Smart NICOP, which includes enhanced security features such as QR-based verification and improved protection against identity fraud.

Who Can Apply?

The following individuals are generally eligible to apply for a NICOP:

Pakistani citizens living or working abroad
Pakistani students studying overseas
Pakistani citizens holding recognized dual nationality
Pakistanis planning to stay abroad for an extended period
Children born abroad to Pakistani parents
Individuals eligible for registration as Pakistani citizens under applicable laws

Children of eligible Pakistani citizens and recognized dual nationals may also apply for a Smart NICOP.

NICOP Application Categories

Applicants should select the appropriate category before submitting an application:

New NICOP

For first-time applicants.

Renewal

For expired or soon-to-expire NICOPs.

Modification

For updating details such as:

Name
Marital status
Address
Date of birth
Parent or spouse information
Other printable details

Supporting documents may be required depending on the requested changes.

Lost or Stolen Card

Applicants whose NICOP has been lost or stolen can request a replacement through the reprint category.

Documents Required

The required documents may vary depending on the applicant’s age, country of residence, and application type. Commonly requested documents include:

CNIC or NICOP details of parents
CNIC or NICOP details of a close blood relative
Pakistani or foreign passport
Residence, work, or study permit
Computerized birth certificate
Detailed birth certificate for children born abroad
Citizenship or naturalization certificate (where applicable)
Marriage certificate (for marital status updates)
Biometric verification by a parent or blood relative
Previous NICOP (for renewals or modifications)
Supporting documents for requested corrections

Applicants should review the document checklist displayed in the PakID app, as additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances.

How to Apply Online Through PakID

Step 1: Download the PakID App

Install the official NADRA PakID application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2: Create an Account

Email address
Mobile number
Password
Required identity details

Existing users can simply log in.

Step 3: Select the Required Service

Choose:

Fresh NICOP
Renewal
Modification
Reprint/Lost Card

Step 4: Enter Personal Information

Provide accurate details, including:

Full name
Date and place of birth
Current and permanent address
Parent and spouse information (if applicable)
Contact details
Passport and nationality information

Ensure all information matches your supporting documents.

Step 5: Upload Your Photograph

Submit a recent passport-style photograph that meets NADRA’s image requirements.

Step 6: Complete Biometric Verification

Follow the instructions to complete fingerprint verification.

Some applicants may be asked to obtain biometric verification from a parent or close blood relative or visit a NADRA Registration Center if online verification is unsuccessful.

Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload clear, readable copies of all required documents.

Make sure:

All corners of each document are visible.
Text is clear and legible.
Documents are valid where applicable.

Step 8: Complete Verification

Depending on the application, witness verification or attestation may be required. The PakID app will provide instructions if additional verification is needed.

Step 9: Pay the Fee

Pay the applicable fee using one of the payment options available in the PakID app.

The amount depends on:

Country of residence
Application type
Processing category

Step 10: Review and Submit

Carefully review your application before submission.

Incorrect information may delay processing. After submission, save your tracking number for future reference.

Applying Through a NADRA Registration Center

Applicants choosing to visit a NADRA Registration Center generally complete the following steps:

Receive a queue token.
Photograph and fingerprint capture.
Verification of personal information.
Required attestation (if applicable).
Application review.
Fee payment.
Card printing and delivery or collection.

NICOP Fees and Processing Time

Zone A (United States and Europe)

Processing Type	Fee	Processing Time
Normal	$39	31 Days
Urgent	$57	23 Days
Executive	$75	9 Days

Zone B (Middle East and Africa)

Processing Type	Fee	Processing Time
Normal	$20	31 Days
Urgent	$30	23 Days
Executive	$40	9 Days

Processing times begin after a complete application has been successfully submitted. Missing documents or verification issues may result in delays.

How to Track Your Application

Applicants can track their application through the PakID app.

Common status updates include:

Application Submitted
Payment Received
Under Review
Deferred
Approved
Card Printing
Card Dispatched

Applicants should also monitor their registered email and mobile notifications.

What Does “Deferred” Mean?

A deferred application is not a rejection.

It usually means NADRA requires additional information, clearer documents, or further verification before processing can continue. Applicants should follow the instructions provided in the PakID app and submit the requested information within the specified timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for NICOP online from abroad?
Yes. Fresh, renewal, modification, and replacement applications can be submitted through the PakID mobile app.

Can a child born abroad apply for NICOP?
Yes. Eligible children born outside Pakistan to Pakistani parents can apply by providing the required documents.

Can I renew my NICOP before it expires?
Yes. Renewal applications can be submitted before the card expires.

What if my NICOP is lost abroad?
Use the Reprint/Lost Card option in PakID and follow the application instructions.

Does a NICOP holder need a Pakistani visa?
Eligible NICOP holders can generally enter Pakistan without obtaining a visa.

Will I always need to visit a NADRA center?
No. Many applications can be completed online. However, NADRA may require an in-person visit if additional verification or biometric authentication is necessary.