Nadra says digital ID cards carry same legal status as physical CNIC

ISLAMABAD: National Database and Registration Authority said citizens using digital identity cards should not be required to produce physical CNIC copies, warning institutions against refusing to accept the digital version of the national ID.

In a statement, the authority said the digital identity card carries the same legal status as the physical Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC).

However, Nadra noted that some government offices and organisations continue to demand the physical card or photocopies instead of accepting the digital version.

The authority said such practices are contrary to the existing legal and regulatory framework.

According to Nadra, digital identity regulations have been framed under the NADRA Ordinance, with Regulations 9 and 10 granting legal recognition to digital identity credentials and confirming them as valid proof of identity.

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The authority added that the use of digital identity cards reduces the need for unnecessary CNIC photocopies and helps strengthen the protection of citizens’ personal data.

Digital identity documents also help prevent the misuse of identification data, the statement said.

Nadra urged government departments, public and financial institutions, and telecom operators to ensure compliance with the directives and accept digital identity cards where applicable.

Citizens facing difficulties in using digital identity cards can lodge complaints through Nadra’s official complaint management system, the authority added.