The NADRA Juvenile Card is a chip-based Smart Identity Card issued to Pakistani citizens under 18 years of age under Rule 18 of the NADRA (NIC) Rules, 2002. It functions as the child’s official photo ID for passport applications, school enrolment, domestic travel, bank accounts, and government programs. The card costs Rs 750 (normal, 31 days), Rs 1,500 (urgent, 23 days), or Rs 2,500 (executive, 9 days). Apply at any NADRA Registration Centre with the child present, or online through the Pak-ID app if the child already has a CRC (B-Form). NADRA captures photograph and IRIS for all ages; fingerprints are added from age 10. At least one parent with a valid CNIC or NICOP must attend for biometric verification.
Last Updated: September 2026,,, verified against nadra.gov.pk official CRC/Juvenile Card page and fee structure.
What Is a Juvenile Card and What Is It Used For
The Juvenile Card is a chip-based Smart Identity Card issued by NADRA under Sub-Rule (2) of Rule 18 of the NADRA (NIC) Rules, 2002. It is the physical, wallet-sized identity card for children distinct from the paper-based CRC (B-Form) which only records birth registration.
The Juvenile Card and CRC together form NADRA’s child registration system. The CRC registers the child in the national database. The Juvenile Card converts that registration into a smart identity card with the child’s photograph, biometric data, and a secure microchip.
What the Juvenile Card is used for:
| Use | Details |
| Child passport application | Required when applying for a Pakistani passport for a child. The Juvenile Card serves as the child’s identity document for passport issuance. |
| School and educational enrolment | Accepted as official identity proof for school admission, examination registration, and educational records. |
| Domestic air travel | Valid ID for children travelling on domestic flights within Pakistan. |
| Opening a bank account | Required for children’s savings accounts or accounts opened on behalf of a minor. |
| Government welfare programs | Registration of children in BISP, Ehsaas, and other social protection programs. |
| SIM registration | Children aged 15 and above can register a SIM card using a Juvenile Card. |
| Legal and property matters | Identity proof in legal proceedings, inheritance documentation, and property matters involving minors. |
The Juvenile Card is used for child passport applications, school enrolment, domestic air travel, opening bank accounts, government welfare programs, and SIM registration for children aged 15 and above. It is the child’s primary photo ID issued by NADRA.
CRC (B-Form) vs Juvenile Card: What Is the Difference
Parents frequently confuse the CRC (Child Registration Certificate / B-Form) with the Juvenile Card. They are different documents issued under the same Rule 18 of NADRA (NIC) Rules, 2002, but serve different purposes.
| Feature | CRC / B-Form | Juvenile Card |
| What It Is | Birth registration certificate — registers the child in NADRA’s database | Smart Identity Card, chip-based photo ID for the child |
| Format | Paper certificate (A4 printed document with QR code) | Physical wallet-sized card with photograph, microchip, and security features |
| Issued At | Birth — can be obtained at any age for children under 18 | After birth registration typically obtained when the child needs a photo ID |
| Photo on Document | No photograph for under 3 (unless passport purpose). Photograph from age 3+ | Child’s photograph always printed on the card |
| Biometrics (Under 3) | None (photo only if for passport purpose) | N/A — Juvenile Card not issued below age of CRC eligibility |
| Biometrics (3–10 years) | Photograph & IRIS | Photograph & IRIS |
| Biometrics (10–18 years) | Photograph, Fingerprints & IRIS | Photograph, Fingerprints & IRIS |
| Used For | Birth registration, family tree linking, first step toward Juvenile Card, required for first-time CNIC at age 18 | Passport, school enrolment, travel, bank account, government programs, SIM (15+) |
| Expiry | Progressive: at age 3, then age 10, then age 18 | At age 10 (renewed with fingerprints), then at age 18 (transition to CNIC) |
| Fee | Rs 50 (normal, 7 days) / Rs 500 (executive, 1 day) | Rs 750 (normal, 31 days) / Rs 1,500 (urgent) / Rs 2,500 (executive) |
| Prerequisite? | None — first identity registration for the child | CRC must exist in NADRA system (for online/Pak-ID applications) |
Key point: The CRC (B-Form) must be obtained first. The Juvenile Card is the next step, it converts the paper birth registration into a physical Smart Identity Card. If your child does not yet have a B-Form, apply for that first.
Biometric Capture and Expiry Rules (Official NADRA Schedule)
NADRA captures different biometric data depending on the child’s age. This applies to both CRC and Juvenile Card applications.
CRC Biometric and Expiry Schedule
| Age Bracket | Biometrics Captured | Expiry |
| Up to 3 years | No biometrics required. Photograph required on CRC only if being processed for passport issuance purpose. | On attaining the age of 3 years |
| 3 to 10 years | Photograph & IRIS | On attaining the age of 10 years |
| 10 to 18 years | Photograph, Fingerprints & IRIS | On attaining the age of 18 years |
Juvenile Card Biometric and Expiry Schedule
| Age Bracket | Biometrics Captured | Expiry |
| Up to 10 years | Photograph & IRIS | On attaining the age of 10 years |
| 10 to 18 years | Photograph, Fingerprints & IRIS | On attaining the age of 18 years |
NADRA captures photograph and IRIS scan for Juvenile Card applicants of all ages. Fingerprints are added from age 10 onwards. CRC for children under 3 requires no biometrics unless the CRC is being processed for passport issuance. All biometric data is captured at the NADRA Registration Centre, the child must be physically present.
Important — child’s presence rules
• CRC (above 3 years) and Juvenile Card: Child’s presence is mandatory.
• CRC (up to 3 years): Child’s presence is required only if the CRC is being processed for passport issuance purpose.
When Should You Get a Juvenile Card for Your Child
There is no mandatory age to apply for a Juvenile Card. However, these practical situations trigger the need:
| Trigger | Why Now |
| Child needs a Pakistani passport | Juvenile Card is required for child passport issuance. Apply before visiting the passport office. |
| Child is enrolling in school | Many schools require a Juvenile Card or equivalent photo ID for official registration and examinations. |
| Child is travelling domestically by air | Airlines require photo ID for all passengers. The Juvenile Card serves this purpose for children. |
| Child turns 10 | NADRA captures fingerprints and IRIS from age 10. The card renewed at this age includes full biometric data. |
| Child needs a bank account | Banks require photo ID for account opening, even for minor accounts. |
| Family is applying for welfare programs | BISP, Ehsaas, and other programs require each family member’s identity registration. |
Progressive issuance: The Juvenile Card has two validity milestones. A card issued before age 10 expires when the child turns 10 — renewed at this age with fingerprints and IRIS added. The renewed card expires at age 18, when the child applies for an adult CNIC.
Eligibility for Juvenile Card
Official rule: As per Rule 18(1) of the NADRA (NIC) Rules, 2002, every Pakistani citizen who has not attained the age of eighteen (18) years shall be registered with NADRA under Sub Section (1) of Section 9 of NADRA Ordinance, 2000 and is eligible for a CRC / Juvenile Card.
• Age: Under 18 years. Once the child turns 18, they apply for adult CNIC instead.
• Citizenship: Pakistani citizen. Established through birth records and parental CNIC/NICOP registration.
• Parent requirement: At least one parent must hold a valid CNIC (domestic) or NICOP (overseas).
• Birth registration: Computerised Birth Registration Certificate from Union Council / Municipal Committee / Cantonment (inland births), or Detailed Birth Certificate or S-1 Form (abroad births).
Documents Required (Official NADRA Requirements)
| Scenario | Documents Required |
| Child has CRC (B-Form) | CRC record in NADRA system — no additional birth document needed |
| Born in Pakistan, no CRC | Computerised Birth Registration Certificate from Union Council / Municipal Committee / Cantonment Board |
| Born abroad | Detailed Birth Certificate from foreign authority, or S-1 Form issued by Pakistani Embassy/Mission |
| Parent documents | At least one parent’s valid CNIC or NICOP — parent must attend for biometric verification |
| Guardian (parents deceased/unavailable) | Court-issued guardianship certificate + guardian’s valid CNIC/NICOP |
| Child’s presence | Mandatory for Juvenile Card (all ages) and CRC (above 3 years). For CRC under 3: only if for passport purpose. |
How to Apply at a NADRA Registration Centre (In Person)
The in-person process follows NADRA’s standard 7-step workflow:
Step 1: Token issuance.
Obtain a Queue Matic token on arrival at the NRC.
Step 2: Parent biometric verification.
One parent (or eligible sibling) completes biometric verification using their CNIC or NICOP.
Step 3: Child’s photograph, IRIS, and fingerprints.
Child’s photograph and IRIS scan are captured at all ages. Fingerprints are captured for children aged 10 and above. The child must be physically present.
Step 4: Data entry and attestation.
Child’s information is entered into the NADRA system, reviewed, and attested by one parent.
Step 5: OIC interview.
Brief interview of the parent by the Officer-in-Charge.
Step 6: Fee payment.
Pay Rs 750 (normal, 31 days) / Rs 1,500 (urgent, 23 days) / Rs 2,500 (executive, 9 days). Delivery charges are separate (Rs 165 within Pakistan).
Step 7: Card printing and dispatch.
After processing, the Juvenile Card is printed and either handed over at NRC or delivered to your address. Track via SMS to 8400.
Tip: Book an appointment through the PakID app before visiting to skip the walk-in queue. You can apply at any NRC nationwide you are not restricted to the one nearest to your registered address.
How to Apply via Pak-ID App (Online)
Path: Pak-ID App → ID Documents → ID Card → My Blood Relatives → New Smart ID
Step 1: Log in or create a Pak-ID account.
Use your CNIC number and Pakistani mobile number. Verify via OTP.
Step 2: Select ‘My Blood Relatives’ then ‘New Smart ID’.
Enter the child’s CRC/B-Form number.
Step 3: Enter child’s details.
All fields must match NADRA’s CRC record exactly.
Step 4: Parent biometric verification.
Captured digitally through the app.
Step 5: Upload documents and child’s photograph.
Photograph must meet NADRA standards (white background, clear face).
Step 6: Submit and await NADRA approval.
Application enters review queue.
Step 7: Pay the fee after approval.
Fee is charged only after NADRA approves the application. Payment via debit/credit card, JazzCash, EasyPaisa, or eSahulat.
Step 8: Card dispatched.
Juvenile Card printed and delivered to the address provided. Track via PakID app or SMS to 8400.
Important limitation: Online application via Pak-ID is only available if the child already has an active CRC (B-Form) in NADRA’s database. If the child has no CRC, you must visit an NRC in person.
How to Find Your Nearest NADRA Registration Centre?
• Rahbar App: Download from Google Play or App Store. Search by city, name, or location. Shows address, contact number, office hours, and driving directions. Filter by centre type (ordinary vs executive).
• Pak-ID App: Under ‘Find NRC’, search for centres near you.
• NADRA Helpline: Call 1777 (mobile) or +92 51 111 786 100 to ask for the nearest NRC.
Juvenile Card Fee Structure (2026 Official NADRA Rates)
| Service Category | Fee (PKR) | Processing Time |
| Executive | Rs 2,500 | 9 days |
| Urgent | Rs 1,500 | 23 days |
| Normal | Rs 750 | 31 days |
CRC (B-Form) fee: Rs 50 (normal, 7 days) / Rs 500 (executive, 1 day).
Delivery: Rs 165 within Pakistan. Not included in fees above. Delivery abroad varies by country.
Timeline starts: After fee payment, not after application submission.
Renewal and Duplicate: Same fee structure as new Juvenile Card. Requires Juvenile Card number only.
Modification: Same fee structure. Refer to NADRA Registration Policy Chapter ‘Change / Correction in Identity Documents’ for requirements.
How to Track Your Juvenile Card Application
• SMS to 8400: Send your 10-digit tracking ID (from receipt) to 8400. Instant reply.
• Pak-ID app: Login → Existing Applications → select application → view status.
• NADRA helpline: Call 1777 or +92 51 111 786 100.
Statuses: Application Submitted → Under Processing → Card Printed → Card Dispatched → Ready for Collection / Delivered.
Juvenile Card for Overseas Pakistani Children
Pakistani parents living abroad with a valid NICOP can apply for a Juvenile Card for their child through:
• Pak-ID app: Same online process as domestic applicants. Fee charged in PKR after currency conversion.
• Pakistani embassy or consulate: Visit the NADRA counter at the nearest Pakistani mission with the child, parent’s NICOP, and birth documents.
For overseas parents, the procedure for CRC processing follows the same rules. If both parents are abroad but the child is in Pakistan, a blood relative or legal guardian in Pakistan can apply on behalf with proper authorization and the child’s presence.
Juvenile Card When Parents Are Unavailable or Deceased
If both parents are deceased, missing, or legally unavailable, a court-appointed guardian may apply. Requirements:
• Court-issued guardianship certificate (from a competent Guardian Court)
• Guardian’s valid CNIC or NICOP
• Guardian biometric verification (mandatory)
• Child’s physical presence (mandatory for photograph, IRIS, and fingerprints where applicable)
Official NADRA rule: Adoptive parents cannot apply for CRC in the child’s name without a legal adoption or guardianship order from a competent court. Informal guardianship or family relationship alone is not sufficient.
DUP Status (Duplicate Records) for Juvenile Cards
If a child has duplicate CRC records in NADRA’s database, one record is retained and the duplicate is automatically surrendered during DUP clearance. This must be resolved before a Juvenile Card can be processed.
Visit any NRC with the child and parent’s CNIC. Fee: Rs 1,000 (similar particulars) to Rs 10,000–20,000 (different particulars).
What Happens When the Child Turns 18
When a CRC/Juvenile Card holder turns 18, the Juvenile Card expires. The individual must then apply for an adult CNIC. The 13-digit identity number assigned at CRC/Juvenile Card registration remains the same throughout, it carries forward to the adult CNIC.
Apply for first-time CNIC at any NRC or through the PakID app. The first standard CNIC is free (normal processing, 15 days). Smart NIC costs Rs 750 (31 days).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRC (B-Form) and a Juvenile Card?
A CRC is a paper birth registration certificate that records the child in NADRA’s database. A Juvenile Card is a chip-based Smart Identity Card with the child’s photograph and biometric data. CRC is the registration; Juvenile Card is the identity card. CRC must be obtained before a Juvenile Card can be issued online.
Can the Juvenile Card be used for a child’s passport?
Yes. The Juvenile Card is required for child passport applications. CRC is also accepted for passport purpose. NADRA captures the child’s photograph on CRC specifically when the CRC is being processed for passport issuance.
Is CRC mandatory for applying for a passport for a minor?
Yes. CRC is a prerequisite for a minor’s passport application. If the child does not have a CRC, apply for one first.
Can CRC be issued if the child’s birth is not registered with the Union Council?
NADRA requires a Computerised Birth Registration Certificate from the Union Council, Municipal Committee, or Cantonment Board for inland births. If birth is not registered with the Union Council, register it first before applying for CRC.
Can CRC be issued if the father is a foreigner?
Yes. NADRA can issue CRC where the father is a foreigner, provided the mother is a Pakistani citizen with a valid CNIC and the child’s birth is properly documented. The foreign father’s passport details are recorded.
What if the date of birth in the CRC differs from the Union Council birth certificate?
The date of birth in CRC should match the Union Council birth registration certificate. If there is a discrepancy, correct the relevant record (CRC or Union Council certificate) before proceeding. Age modification fees apply for changes in NADRA records.
Can a child in Pakistan apply while both parents live abroad?
Yes. A blood relative or legal guardian in Pakistan can apply on behalf of the child. The child must be physically present. The relative must provide a valid CNIC and proof of relationship. For guardian cases, a court-issued guardianship certificate is required.
Can adoptive parents apply for CRC without a legal adoption or guardianship order?
No. Adoptive parents cannot apply for CRC in the child’s name without a legal adoption or guardianship order from a competent court. The court order must be presented during application.
What happens to the Juvenile Card when the child turns 18?
The Juvenile Card expires. The individual applies for an adult CNIC. The same 13-digit identity number carries forward. First standard CNIC is free.
Can a Juvenile Card be applied for without a CRC?
Yes, at an NRC in person. Submit a computerised birth certificate from Union Council (inland) or foreign birth certificate/S-1 Form (abroad). Online application via Pak-ID requires an existing CRC in NADRA’s system.
What if parents’ marital status is not updated in NADRA records?
If parents’ marital status is not updated, it may cause issues during CRC/Juvenile Card processing. Update marital status by submitting a marriage certificate to NADRA before applying for the child’s documents.
Can a Juvenile Card be issued if the child has duplicate CRC records?
No. Duplicate records must be cleared first. Visit an NRC for DUP clearance, one record is retained and the duplicate is cancelled. After clearance, the Juvenile Card can be processed.
Can CRC information be corrected?
Yes. Apply for CRC modification at any NRC or through the PakID app. Refer to NADRA’s Registration Policy Chapter ‘Change / Correction in Identity Documents’ for specific requirements. Fee: Rs 750 (normal, 31 days).
Can a child’s name be changed after CRC issuance?
Yes. Apply for CRC/Juvenile Card modification with supporting documentation (court order for name change, if applicable). The name change is processed as a modification application.
Does CRC expire?
Yes. CRC expires progressively: at age 3 (first CRC), at age 10 (renewed with photograph and IRIS), and at age 18 (child transitions to adult CNIC). Renew before each milestone.
How much does a Juvenile Card cost?
Rs 750 (normal, 31 days), Rs 1,500 (urgent, 23 days), Rs 2,500 (executive, 9 days). Delivery within Pakistan: Rs 165. Processing starts after fee payment.
Can overseas parents apply?
Yes. Parents with valid NICOP can apply through the Pak-ID app or at a Pakistani embassy/consulate abroad.
Is the child’s presence mandatory?
Yes for Juvenile Card (all ages) and CRC (above 3 years). For CRC under 3 years: only if being processed for passport issuance. NADRA captures photograph, IRIS, and fingerprints (10+) at the centre.
Can CRC be cancelled or surrendered?
Yes. CRC/CNIC cancellation due to death is free and processed in 1 day. Cancellation due to nationality surrender is also possible, fee varies by location.