NADRA is set to introduce self-service kiosks in Karachi to simplify the renewal and re-issuance process for smart National Identity Cards (NICs). The initiative aims to help citizens avoid long waits and complete necessary procedures independently.
The self-service machines will allow citizens to perform various tasks related to the smart NICs, including biometric verification, capturing photographs, and submitting the required documents for both the renewal of expired NICs and the re-issuance of lost cards. This move is set to reduce long queues and extended waiting periods, making the entire process more convenient for the public. By using the kiosks, citizens will be able to complete their applications independently and at their own convenience, a significant improvement over the traditional process which often required them to wait in long lines.
“Through these automated kiosks, citizens will be able to finalize the application procedures for both the renewal of NICs and the re-issuance of lost cards,” said a NADRA spokesperson.
This marks a major step in the modernization of NADRA’s services, offering greater convenience and efficiency to users across the city.
Initially, the self-service kiosks will be deployed at NADRA’s mega centers, which are already well-equipped to handle large volumes of applicants. The future plans, however, involve extending this service to more locations, such as railway stations, airports, shopping malls, and educational institutions. The expansion of these self-service points will make it easier for people to access essential services without needing to visit a centralized office.
Once citizens have submitted their details through the kiosks, they can expect to receive their new NICs, B-Forms, and other relevant documents within 15 days at the address they provide. This new system promises to be a game-changer in terms of processing times and overall customer satisfaction.
Following a successful testing phase, these self-service machines will be installed at the Karachi Mega Centers, and NADRA has plans to further expand the service to additional locations. The next phase of the initiative will incorporate a point-of-sale (POS) system, allowing citizens to make payments for services using their credit or debit cards, further enhancing the convenience of the process.
In addition to the launch of self-service kiosks, NADRA recently showcased its latest biometric innovations at the IDEAS 2024 exhibition in Karachi. These innovations include advanced biometric registration and verification devices, all of which have been locally assembled through a collaboration between NADRA Technologies Limited and the National Radio and Telecom Corporation (NRTC).
“These devices have been designed to support modern national ID systems, enhance border control mechanisms, and streamline public service delivery, with a focus on usability, security, durability and affordability,”
said a NADRA spokesperson. Among the featured innovations were handheld biometric tablets, mobile enrollment kits, self-enrollment kiosks, and a contactless iris camera, all of which are expected to significantly improve the way NADRA handles identity registration and verification.
The focus on locally assembled biometric devices is a key part of NADRA’s strategy to not only modernize its systems but also reduce reliance on foreign technology, while contributing to the local economy. These innovations are expected to play a crucial role in the future of national ID systems, particularly in enhancing the security and efficiency of public services.
With these new initiatives, NADRA is setting the stage for a more efficient, secure, and accessible public service experience in Karachi and beyond. As the self-service kiosks are expanded to more locations, citizens can look forward to faster, more convenient access to their NICs and other essential documents.
