National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced a new Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) featuring QR code based technology, replacing the previous smart chip based identity card technology for new applications and renewals. According to information shared in an Aaj News video, the new CNIC uses technology developed locally in Pakistan and replaces the imported chip used in older smart cards. The move is intended to reduce reliance on imported components and specialised card reading equipment while providing another method for identity verification. The new card features visually enhanced QR codes that can be scanned using commonly available devices, reducing the requirement for dedicated chip readers. NADRA has described the new system as a locally developed approach to digital identity verification, with the QR code technology designed to support identity authentication through existing mobile and computing hardware.
The introduction of the new CNIC does not require existing cardholders to immediately replace their current identity cards. Both non-chip CNICs and existing smart chip based cards will remain valid until their stated expiry dates. NADRA is implementing the new card system through a phased rollout, with non-chip or plain cards being replaced first when individuals apply for a new card or renew their existing identity document. The transition for smart chip cards is expected to take place over the following five to six months, with new applications gradually moving to the QR code format. This means people who currently hold a valid smart chip CNIC do not need to visit a NADRA centre solely because the new QR code card has been introduced. Their existing cards will continue to be accepted according to their validity period, while the new format will be issued as applications and renewals move through the rollout process.
The new identity card uses a dual QR code system for different verification functions. The QR code on the front side of the card is designed to support facial recognition and live image matching, adding an additional method for confirming the identity of a cardholder. Verification can also be carried out through standard mobile hardware using the Pak Identity application, reducing dependence on specialised equipment previously required to read the chip embedded in smart cards. The system is also being designed for use by businesses and financial institutions, including banks, which will receive software or application updates to enable barcode scanning and identity authentication. These organisations will be able to use existing smartphones or compatible hardware to scan the codes and verify individuals, providing an alternative to dedicated smart card readers.
The rollout will later expand beyond regular CNICs to other identity documents issued by NADRA. The second phase is scheduled to begin in January 2027 and will include National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), Juvenile Cards and Pakistan Origin Cards (POC). The broader transition will allow NADRA to gradually apply the QR code based identity system across different categories of identity documents. The shift from chip based cards to QR code technology is also expected to reduce the costs associated with imported chips and specialised reading hardware while reducing reliance on foreign technology components. Existing identity cards will continue to remain valid until their expiry, allowing the transition to take place gradually rather than requiring immediate replacement of cards already held by citizens. The new system therefore introduces a different method of identity verification while allowing NADRA to move existing and future identity documents toward the QR code format in stages.
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