By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Enhancing National Identity Management for All Citizens
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced the introduction of new security and usability features to its non-chip-based Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). This development marks another step in the authority’s efforts to improve identity verification, ensure document authenticity, and streamline access to various government and private sector services, particularly for those citizens who still rely on non-chip ID cards.
While chip-based Smart National Identity Cards (SNICs) have become the standard over the past decade, millions of Pakistanis still possess and use non-chip CNICs issued before the widespread transition. With the introduction of upgraded features to these older versions, NADRA aims to bridge the technological gap and enhance identity management nationwide.
Improved Security Features
The upgraded non-chip CNICs now include advanced security elements to make them more resistant to forgery and tampering. These enhancements consist of improved holograms, UV printing, microtext, and color-shifting ink, making the cards more secure and harder to counterfeit.
Officials from NADRA have stated that while chip cards offer greater security due to encrypted data storage, these added features on non-chip cards provide substantial reinforcement to card authenticity in offline verification scenarios. The enhanced security elements align with international standards for identity documents and are expected to reduce the prevalence of fake ID cards in circulation.
Better Visual Design and Durability
In addition to security, NADRA has focused on improving the physical quality of non-chip CNICs. The cards now feature a new design layout that presents information more clearly and concisely. Fonts have been adjusted for better legibility, and photographs have higher resolution for easier visual identification.
The material of the cards has also been upgraded, using more durable plastic to extend the lifespan of each card. These changes aim to provide a better user experience for citizens who continue to rely on non-chip ID cards in daily life.
Streamlining Service Access
One of the key motivations behind the update is to facilitate easier access to public and private services, especially for citizens living in remote or underserved areas. Many individuals in rural regions still use non-chip CNICs due to limitations in infrastructure or lack of awareness about upgrading to smart cards.
With the improved cards, citizens will face fewer difficulties when verifying their identity for banking services, government subsidies, and voting purposes. NADRA also emphasized that the new design supports faster scanning by legacy systems still in use at many service points.
Maintaining Inclusivity Amid Digital Transformation
While NADRA continues to promote the adoption of chip-based identity cards, this step reflects a commitment to ensuring no citizen is left behind in the digital transformation process. Officials noted that while digital and biometric advancements are underway, inclusive policies must also address the needs of those who may face barriers in transitioning to smart cards due to socioeconomic or geographic challenges.
By enhancing the non-chip cards, NADRA is recognizing the diversity in the population’s access to technology while still aligning with national security and service efficiency goals.
Public Awareness Campaign Launched
To support the rollout of the upgraded non-chip CNICs, NADRA has initiated a nationwide public awareness campaign. This includes announcements through print and electronic media, community outreach programs, and coordination with local government offices to educate citizens about the new features and how to apply for the updated cards.
The campaign aims to inform the public that existing non-chip cardholders can request the upgraded version at any NADRA registration center. The authority has clarified that the updated cards are not mandatory, but strongly recommended for those who have not yet transitioned to chip-based IDs.
Future Integration Possibilities
NADRA has hinted at possible future integration of these enhanced non-chip cards with digital platforms, such as SMS verification services and limited online functionalities. Although they do not offer the full capabilities of SNICs, these new features will gradually bring non-chip cardholders into the evolving ecosystem of e-governance and digital service delivery.
Officials have also stated that the upgrade process does not affect the validity of current non-chip cards. All valid CNICs will continue to be recognized for identification purposes until their expiration, after which citizens will have the option to renew using the upgraded format.