How to renew an expired CNIC in Pakistan — renew online through the Pak-Identity portal or at a NADRA center, with documents, fees and delivery options.
A CNIC is valid for a fixed period (commonly 10 years, or a lifetime card in some categories). When it is close to expiry or has expired, you should renew it — an expired CNIC can block banking, SIM registration, travel and government services. You can renew online through the Pak-Identity portal or in person at a NADRA center.
Online renewal is convenient because your biometrics are usually already on record; you re-verify, upload a photo where required, pay online and have the card delivered. This guide covers the online route with the center option as a fallback.
Go to id.nadra.gov.pk and create an account or sign in with your email and mobile number.
Choose "Renewal" and select your CNIC. Your existing details are loaded from NADRA's records for you to review.
Confirm your name, parentage, address and other particulars. Correct anything that is out of date (see the details-correction guide if a name is wrong).
Upload a recent photograph and any documents the portal requests. Follow the photo guidelines (plain background, clear face).
Pay with a card or through the supported payment options. Fees depend on the processing category you choose.
Submit the request and note your tracking number. Track progress on the portal or by SMS to 8009.
Choose home delivery or collection. Once approved and printed, the renewed CNIC is dispatched to your chosen address.
An expired CNIC is not accepted for most services (banking, SIMs, travel). Renew it before or soon after expiry to avoid disruption.
Yes. The Pak-Identity portal (id.nadra.gov.pk) lets most citizens renew online, verify details, pay and get the card delivered without visiting a center.
Usually your biometrics are already on record, so online renewal re-verifies your identity. If NADRA needs fresh biometrics it will ask you to visit a center.