1. Introduction
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) serves as the ultimate government body for identity registration and verification in Pakistan. Since its inception in 2000, NADRA has maintained one of the most sophisticated citizen databases in the world, interfacing with more than 150 million Pakistanis and countless overseas citizens.
NADRA’s unique overseas centers and dedicated overseas desks at embassies make the process effortless for citizens no matter where they are in the world. Whether someone is situated in Karachi, California, Lahore, or London, NADRA is able to process documents without issue.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Detailed lists of NADRA office types in Pakistan
- Global directory of overseas NADRA centers
- Office timings and service scope
- Define, step-by-step process for applying inside and outside Pakistan
- Insider tips to save time and money
2. History & Prominence of NADRA
Before establishment of NADRA, identity documents in Pakistan were handled manually, often leading to delays, errors, unsecure the record and difficulty in maintaining record. With the introduction of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) in the early 2000s, NADRA revolutionized how citizens prove their identity.
Today, NADRA services are essential for:
- Opening a bank account
- Purchasing property
- For verification of getting telecom SIM card
- Voting
- Online verification Traveling abroad
- Applying for scholarships or jobs
For overseas Pakistanis, services like NICOP and FRC are crucial for maintaining ties with Pakistan.
3. Types of NADRA Offices in Pakistan
NADRA operates three main types of physical offices in Pakistan, each having to different needs.
| Office Type | Main Features | Processing Speed | Service Hours | Best For |
| Regular Registration Centers (DAUs) | Standard counters, normal fee, large network | Standard | Single/Double Shift | Citizens with non-urgent needs |
| Executive Registration Centers | Priority service, shorter queues, higher fee | Fast | Single/Double Shift | Urgent cases, professionals, travelers |
| Mega Centers | 24/7 operation, high-capacity, multiple counters | Fastest | 3 shifts (24 hrs) | Flexible schedules, avoiding rush |
4. NADRA Offices Abroad
Overseas Pakistanis can access NADRA through:
- Dedicated Overseas NADRA Centers
- NADRA Desks in Embassies and Consulates
- Online Pak Identity Portal
4.1 Dedicated Overseas NADRA Centers – Examples
- United Arab Emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
- United Kingdom: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bradford
- United States: New York, Houston, Chicago
- Canada: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary
- Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah
4.2 Embassy/Consulate NADRA Desks – Examples
If there’s no separate/individual NADRA office, you can often find a NADRA service desk inside the Pakistani embassy or consulate:
- Rome, Italy (Inside Pakistan Embassy)
- Sydney, Australia (Inside Consulate)
- Tokyo, Japan (Inside Embassy)
4.3 Online Pak Identity Portal
For many services, overseas Pakistanis don’t even need to visit in person.
Visit: id.nadra.gov.pk to:
- Apply for CNIC/NICOP renewal
- Request FRC
- Change personal details
- Upload documents online
5. Timings
Pakistan Timings
- Regular Centers (Single Shift):
Mon to Thu: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM - Regular Centers (Double Shift):
Morning: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Evening: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Fri: starts 3:00 PM) - Mega Centers: Operate 24/7 in three shifts.
Overseas Timings – Examples
- Dubai: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Sun to Thu)
- London: 9:00 AM to4:00 PM (Mon to Fri)
- Toronto: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Mon to Fri)
Always check your local Pakistani mission website for updated schedules.
6. Services Offered (Pakistan & Overseas)
| Service | Pakistan | Overseas |
| New CNIC/NICOP | ✅ | ✅ |
| CNIC/NICOP Renewal | ✅ | ✅ |
| Family Registration Certificate | ✅ | ✅ |
| Child Registration (B-Form) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Data Correction | ✅ | ✅ |
| Overseas ID Card | ❌ | ✅ |
| COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate | ✅ | ✅ |
| Biometric Verification | ✅ | ✅ |
7. Step-by-Step Application Process
7.1 In Pakistan
- Locate your nearest NADRA office via NADRA Locator.
- Bring original CNIC or relevant documents.
- Take a token at reception.
- Biometric data capture (photo, fingerprints, signature).
- Verification of details by an officer.
- Fee payment according to service type.
- Collect receipt and wait for card delivery.
7.2 Overseas
- Book appointment via local NADRA office or embassy website.
- Bring valid passport, old NICOP/CNIC, and proof of address.
- Complete biometric capture and document submission.
- Pay the fee in local currency.
- Track application status online.
8. Fee Structure (Indicative)
| Service | Normal Fee | Executive Fee |
| CNIC New/Renewal | PKR 750 | PKR 1,500 |
| NICOP New/Renewal (Overseas) | USD 39 | USD 75 |
| FRC | PKR 500 | PKR 1,000 |
9. Insider Tips for Faster Service
- Use Mega Centers if you want same-day processing.
- Book online appointments for overseas centers.
- Avoid visiting on Mondays and after public holidays (heaviest traffic).
- Keep photocopies of documents even if they say “digital copies” are enough.
- For name/spelling corrections, bring legal proof like a birth certificate or marriage certificate.
10. Global NADRA Center Directory (Highlights)
United Kingdom
- London – 54-58 Upper Richmond Road, SW15 2RN
- Birmingham – 358 Coventry Road, B10 0XE
United States
- New York – 12 E 65th Street, NY 10065
- Houston – 11811 North Freeway, TX 77060
Middle East
- Dubai – Al Qusais, Near Lulu Hypermarket
- Riyadh – Pakistan Embassy Compound
11. Contact Information
Pakistan Helpline: 1777 (Mobile) / +92 51 111 786 100
Email: info@nadra.gov.pk
Overseas: Contact your nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate.
12. FAQs
Q: Can I renew my NICOP without visiting in person?
A: Yes, via the Pak Identity portal if your biometrics are already in NADRA’s system.
Q: Do overseas Mega Centers exist?
A: No, Mega Centers are only in Pakistan.
Q: How long does a NICOP take overseas?
A: Typically 2–4 weeks depending on the country.
13. Conclusion
NADRA’s worldwide network guarantees that Pakistanis, no matter where they live, can access fast, secure, and reliable identity services. Whether you choose a Regular Center, Executive Office, or Mega Center, knowing your options can save time, effort, money and from doorstep without visiting.
For overseas citizens, combining in-person services with the Pak Identity online system offers maximum convenience.