The NICOP Card is an official NADRA-issued identity document for Pakistani citizens living abroad, including eligible dual nationals. It proves Pakistani citizenship, allows visa-free entry into Pakistan, and is used for legal and civic purposes. Applications are submitted through Pak-ID with category-based fees, timelines, and tracking via a 10-digit ID.
What is NICOP Card?
The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is an official identity document issued to Pakistani citizens residing outside Pakistan who are eligible for a national identity card.
NICOP is issued to:
- Pakistani citizens living abroad
- Pakistani citizens who have acquired foreign nationality where dual nationality is permitted
- Citizens retaining Pakistani citizenship while residing overseas
NICOP serves as legal proof of identity and Pakistani citizenship and is valid for all purposes where proof of citizenship is required under Pakistani law.
Required Documents for NICOP
The documents required for NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) depend on the application category and the applicant’s citizenship status. All documents are submitted through Pak-ID during the application process.
Common Documents Required for NICOP
These documents are generally required for most NICOP applications:
Documents for First-Time (New) NICOP Applicants
For applicants applying for NICOP for the first time:
- Pakistani passport
- Proof of legal stay abroad (visa, residence permit, or equivalent)
- Supporting documents confirming Pakistani citizenship
Documents for NICOP Renewal
For renewal applications:
- Existing NICOP
- Pakistani passport
- Updated documents if any personal details have changed
Documents for NICOP Modification or Duplicate
For modification or reprint cases:
- Existing NICOP (if available)
- Supporting documents related to the requested change
- Proof documents for corrected or updated information
Documents for NICOP Cancellation
For cancellation requests:
- NICOP cancellation due to death: Relevant death-related documentation
- NICOP cancellation due to nationality surrender: Official nationality surrender documentation
Important Notes
- All documents must be clear, valid, and verifiable
- Document requirements may vary based on application category
- NADRA may request additional documents during verification
- Applications with incomplete or unclear documents may face delays
Who Is Eligible for NICOP?
NICOP eligibility extends beyond permanent overseas residents. Eligible individuals include:
Pakistani citizens who are emigrants or intending emigrants with a foreign employment agreement
Pakistani citizens holding a foreign residence visa, permit, or equivalent status
Dependents of emigrants
Dual nationals from countries officially recognized by Pakistan
NICOP confirms the holder’s official status as a Pakistani national while living abroad.
Benefits of the NICOP Card
NICOP provides both legal and travel-related privileges.
Key benefits include:
- Visa-free entry into Pakistan
- Recognition as a Pakistani citizen under applicable laws
- Continued access to rights and privileges available to Pakistani nationals
- Lawful, convenient, and unrestricted travel to Pakistan
NICOP holders are not treated as foreign nationals for immigration purposes when entering Pakistan.
Dual Nationality Countries Eligible for NICOP
Pakistan maintains dual-nationality arrangements with the following countries:
- Australia
- Belgium
- Canada
- Egypt
- France
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jordan
- Netherlands (Holland)
- New Zealand
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Syria
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Bahrain
- Finland
- Denmark
- Germany
- Norway
- Luxembourg
Important Notes
- Children of Pakistani parents born and raised in Germany who acquired German nationality at birth are eligible for NICOP
- Individuals who previously renounced Pakistani nationality may apply for NICOP after obtaining a Resumption Certificate (Form Y) from IMPASS
Categories of NICOP Applications
Pakistani citizens can apply for NICOP through Pak ID under the following categories:
- New/Fresh – First-time NICOP application
- Renewal – Extension of NICOP validity
- Reprint – Duplicate NICOP due to loss or damage
- Modification – Update printed card details
- Modification in Non-Printable Fields – Update information such as marital status, qualification, or profession
- Cancellation – Cancellation of an issued NICOP
Each category follows a defined processing flow and timeline.
NICOP applications are submitted through Pak-ID under specific categories, depending on the applicant’s situation. Each category serves a distinct purpose and follows NADRA’s official processing rules.
New / Fresh NICOP
This category is for first-time applicants who have never been issued a NICOP before. It applies to Pakistani citizens living abroad, including eligible dual nationals, who require an overseas identity card for the first time.
NICOP Renewal
Renewal is used when an existing NICOP is expired or nearing expiry. The renewal process extends the validity of the card while keeping the applicant’s core identity record intact.
NICOP Duplicate (Reprint)
This category applies when a NICOP is lost, stolen, or damaged. A duplicate card is issued using the same identity record, without creating a new citizenship profile.
NICOP Modification
Modification is selected when printed information on the NICOP needs correction or updating, such as name, date of birth, or other visible card details.
Modification in Non-Printable Fields
This category is used to update background record details that do not appear on the card, such as marital status, qualification, or profession. These updates affect NADRA records but do not change the printed NICOP.
NICOP Cancellation
Cancellation is requested when a NICOP needs to be officially canceled, including cases such as death or nationality surrender, according to NADRA regulations.
How to Apply for NICOP?
You can apply for a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) through Pak-ID, NADRA’s official online identity portal for identity services.
Step-by-Step NICOP Application Process
- Visit the Pak-ID platform and choose NICOP as your service
- Select the relevant application category:
- New / Fresh
- Renewal
- Modification
- Duplicate (Reprint)
- Cancellation
- Submit your application online through the system
- After submission, a tracking ID is generated
- Use the tracking ID to:
- Monitor application progress
- Complete verification steps (if required)
- Proceed with payment
- Once the application is processed and approved according to the selected priority, the NICOP is issued
NICOP درخواست کا طریقہ کار
Important Notes
- Each NICOP application generates a separate tracking ID
- The tracking ID is required for payment, status checks, and support
- Applicants should not share their tracking ID publicly to protect personal information
Who Can Apply Through This Process?
NICOP applications are specifically designed for:
- Overseas Pakistani citizens
- Emigrants and residents living abroad
- Eligible dual nationals
All NICOP applications are handled entirely through NADRA’s official system and follow standardized processing rules.
NICOP Tracking & Status Check
You can track your NICOP application status using the tracking ID generated after submitting your application through Pak-ID.
How to Check NICOP Status
Choose your preferred official method below
What You Can Track with the NICOP Tracking ID
- Application submission confirmation
- Verification and biometric stages
- Payment status (pending or completed)
- Processing progress based on the selected priority
- Final approval and issuance stage
Important Notes
- Each NICOP application has a separate tracking ID
- Do not share your tracking ID publicly, including social media comments
- NADRA does not provide tracking updates through social media platforms
NICOP vs CNIC vs CRC
NICOP, CNIC, and CRC are distinct NADRA identity documents, each issued for a specific group and purpose. Choosing the correct document depends on residency status, age, and use case.
NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis)
NICOP is issued to Pakistani citizens residing outside Pakistan, including eligible dual nationals. It serves as legal proof of Pakistani citizenship and allows visa-free entry into Pakistan. NICOP is specifically designed for overseas Pakistanis who require an official identity document while living abroad.
Who it’s for:
Overseas Pakistani adults and eligible dual nationals.
CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
CNIC is issued to Pakistani citizens residing inside Pakistan. It is the primary national identity document used for legal, civic, and governmental purposes within the country.
Who it’s for:
Pakistani citizens aged 18 or above living in Pakistan.
CRC (Child Registration Certificate / B-Form)
CRC, commonly known as B-Form, is issued to Pakistani children under the age of 18. It records a child’s identity and parentage and is required for services such as passport issuance and future CNIC or NICOP applications.
Who it’s for:
Pakistani children below 18 years of age.
Key Differences at a Glance
NICOP Delivery & Collection Method
NICOP delivery or collection depends on the application type, location, and selected processing priority.
How NICOP Is Delivered
Once a NICOP application is approved and processed, the card is:
- Dispatched through NADRA’s official delivery mechanism
- Delivered to the address provided during the application, where applicable
Applicants living abroad typically receive their NICOP through designated overseas delivery channels managed under NADRA’s system.
NICOP Collection Method
In cases where physical delivery is not applicable:
- Applicants may be informed through their tracking status
- Collection instructions are provided based on:
- Country of residence
- Application category
- Processing arrangement
The tracking ID remains the primary reference for confirming whether the NICOP is:
- Dispatched
- Ready for collection
- Pending due to verification or documentation
Important Notes
- NICOP delivery or collection details are linked to the tracking ID
- Applicants should regularly check their application status before expecting delivery
- NADRA does not communicate delivery details through social media
- Any official instructions are provided only through NADRA or Pak-ID channels
Common NICOP Tracking Issues
NICOP tracking issues usually occur due to system timing, incomplete steps, or incorrect use of the tracking ID. Most problems can be resolved without reapplying if handled correctly.
Tracking ID Not Found
This issue appears when the tracking ID is:
- Entered incorrectly
- Checked immediately after application submission
New applications may take some time to sync across NADRA systems. Always recheck the 10-digit tracking ID and try again later.
Payment Completed but Status Not Updated
In some cases, payment is successful, but the status still shows pending.
This can happen when:
- Payment confirmation has not synced with Pak-ID
- The session was closed before returning to the application
Applicants should log back into their Pak-ID account using the same tracking ID and refresh the application status.
Status Stuck at Verification Stage
A NICOP application may remain under verification due to:
- Pending biometric or document verification
- Internal review based on application category
This does not mean rejection. The tracking ID will update once the verification step is completed.
Unable to Track via SMS (8400)
SMS tracking may fail if:
- The tracking ID format is incorrect
- Network delay prevents response delivery
If SMS tracking does not work, applicants should use the Pak-ID app or contact the NADRA helpline.
Conflicting Status Across Platforms
Sometimes the status shown on SMS, Pak-ID app, or helpline may not match exactly.
This happens due to:
- Different update intervals across systems
The Pak-ID account status should be treated as the most reliable reference.
Important Safety Reminder
- Never share your NICOP tracking ID publicly
- NADRA does not provide tracking updates through social media comments
- Always use official NADRA channels for status checks
NICOP Cancellation Rules
NICOP cancellation is a formal NADRA process used to deactivate an issued NICOP when it is no longer valid or legally required. Cancellation ensures NADRA records remain accurate and compliant with nationality laws.
When NICOP Cancellation Is Required
NICOP cancellation is applicable in the following cases:
- Death of the NICOP holder
The NICOP must be canceled to close the identity record officially. - Nationality Surrender
If a Pakistani citizen formally surrenders Pakistani nationality, the NICOP must be canceled according to NADRA regulations.
How is NICOP Cancellation Processed?
- NICOP cancellation is submitted through Pak-ID under the cancellation category
- The request is processed under NADRA’s official verification procedures
- Once approved, the NICOP is permanently deactivated and cannot be used for any purpose
For nationality surrender cases, cancellation applies not only to NICOP but may also include CNIC or CRC, depending on the individual’s record.
Processing Timeline for NICOP Cancellation
- NICOP Cancellation due to Death:
Processed on a priority basis, typically within 1 working day - NICOP/CNIC/CRC Cancellation due to Nationality Surrender:
Processed under Executive priority, with a defined processing timeline
Important Notes
- Canceled NICOPs cannot be renewed or reactivated
- Cancellation updates NADRA’s central identity database
- Tracking ID remains the reference number until the cancellation request is completed
- Cancellation instructions are issued only through official NADRA channels
NICOP Processing Fee and Timeline (Zone A)
Zone A applies to the USA and European countries. NICOP fees and timelines vary based on the selected priority level.
Smart NICOP Fees and Processing Time (Zone A – USA & Europe)
| Application Type | Priority | Fee (USD) | Processing Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Smart NICOP | Normal | 39 | 31 days |
| New Smart NICOP | Urgent | 57 | 23 days |
| New Smart NICOP | Executive | 75 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Normal | 39 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Urgent | 57 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Executive | 75 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Normal | 39 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Urgent | 57 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Executive | 75 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Normal | 39 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Urgent | 57 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Executive | 75 | 09 days |
| NICOP Cancellation (due to death) | — | 0 | 01 day |
Important Notes for Zone A Applicants
- Fees are charged in USD
- Processing time depends strictly on the priority selected
- Executive priority offers the fastest processing
- Cancellation due to death is free of charge
- Timelines are calculated after successful submission and verification
NICOP Processing Fee and Timeline (Zone B)
Zone B applies to Middle East and African countries. NICOP fees and processing timelines depend on the selected priority level at the time of application.
Smart NICOP Fees and Processing Time (Zone B – Middle East & Africa)
| Application Type | Priority | Fee (USD) | Processing Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Smart NICOP | Normal | 20 | 31 days |
| New Smart NICOP | Urgent | 30 | 23 days |
| New Smart NICOP | Executive | 40 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Normal | 20 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Urgent | 30 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Modification | Executive | 40 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Normal | 20 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Urgent | 30 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Duplicate | Executive | 40 | 09 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Normal | 20 | 31 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Urgent | 30 | 23 days |
| Smart NICOP Renewal | Executive | 40 | 09 days |
| NICOP Cancellation (due to death) | — | 0 | 01 day |
| NICOP/CNIC/CRC Cancellation (due to Nationality Surrender) | Executive | 15 | 02 days |
Important Notes for Zone B Applicants
- All fees are charged in USD
- Only the Executive priority is available for nationality surrender cases
- Cancellation due to death is processed free of cost
- Processing timelines begin after successful submission and verification
- The selected priority directly affects processing speed
NICOP Payment Methods
NICOP application fees are paid through official NADRA-approved channels during the Pak-ID application process. Available payment methods depend on the application type.
Accepted Payment Methods
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- e-Sahulat Franchise (Smart NICOP & FRC only)
- EasyPaisa (Smart NICOP & FRC only)
- JazzCash (Smart NICOP & FRC only)
Note
Only Visa or Mastercard debit or credit cards are accepted.
e-Sahulat, EasyPaisa, and JazzCash are available only for Smart NICOP and FRC applications.
Payment via Credit or Debit Card
- Enter cardholder details (name, address, email, contact number)
- Provide card information
- Verify payment using OTP
- Submit payment to proceed with the application
Payment via e-Sahulat
- Reach the payment stage on Pak-ID website or mobile app
- Visit any e-Sahulat franchise
- Provide your application tracking ID
- Pay the applicable fee to the franchise agent
- Log back into Pak-ID and continue the application
Payment via EasyPaisa
- Reach the payment stage on Pak-ID website or mobile app
- Log in to your EasyPaisa account
- Follow the on-screen payment steps
- Confirm payment and return to Pak-ID
Payment via JazzCash
- Reach the payment stage on Pak-ID website or mobile app
- Log in to your JazzCash account
- Follow the on-screen payment steps
- Confirm payment and proceed with the application
Important Notes
- Payment is linked to the application tracking ID
- An application does not move forward until payment is confirmed
- Always complete payment through official NADRA channels only
NICOP FAQs
What is NICOP used for?
NICOP is used as legal proof of Pakistani citizenship for overseas Pakistanis and allows visa-free entry into Pakistan.
Who should apply for NICOP instead of CNIC?
Pakistani citizens residing outside Pakistan, including eligible dual nationals, should apply for NICOP instead of CNIC.
Can dual nationals apply for NICOP?
Yes. Pakistani citizens holding nationality of countries with approved dual-nationality arrangements are eligible for NICOP.
How long does NICOP processing take?
Processing time depends on priority and zone. Normal, Urgent, and Executive options have different timelines.
How can I track my application?
Track your application using your ID via SMS (8400), the NADRA helpline, or the Pak-ID app.
Is tracking ID different from CNIC number?
Yes. The tracking ID is a temporary 10-digit number used only to track an application.
Can I pay via EasyPaisa or JazzCash?
These are available only for Smart NICOP and FRC applications, not for all NICOP categories.
What if my NICOP is lost or damaged?
You can apply for a duplicate (reprint) NICOP using the duplicate application category on Pak-ID.
Can a NICOP be canceled?
Yes. NICOP can be canceled due to death or nationality surrender through Pak-ID under NADRA rules.