The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued an important announcement for Pakistani expatriates regarding the upcoming Eidul Fitr holidays. It has confirmed that all its international offices and service counters abroad will remain closed during the festive period, aligning with the holiday schedules set by individual Pakistani embassies and consulates worldwide. This temporary suspension of in-person services is part of the broader observance of Eid celebrations.
Despite the closure of physical offices, NADRA has reassured overseas Pakistanis that essential services will continue uninterrupted through digital platforms. Citizens living abroad can conveniently renew or apply for critical identity documents such as the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) and the Pakistan Origin Card (POC) using the Pak-ID mobile application. This app enables users to complete their applications from home, ensuring that vital documentation processes are not delayed due to the holiday shutdown.
To avoid any inconvenience, NADRA has advised all overseas Pakistanis to verify the exact dates of closure by visiting the official websites or social media channels of their respective Pakistani diplomatic missions. Since the holiday schedule may vary slightly depending on the country and embassy, staying informed will help applicants plan their submissions accordingly and avoid last-minute complications.
In Pakistan, the closure of NADRA centres coincides with the official Eidul Fitr holidays declared by the government. Following approval from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on March 15, the Cabinet Division issued a notification confirming that government offices nationwide will remain closed on March 20 and 21. This directive applies to offices operating on both five-day and six-day workweeks, effectively extending the holiday period to include Friday and Saturday, allowing citizens and employees to celebrate Eid with their families.
The government’s decision to grant these official holidays reflects the cultural and religious significance of Eidul Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The extended break not only facilitates festive preparations but also ensures that public sector employees can fully participate in the celebrations. Consequently, NADRA’s domestic offices will also pause operations during this time, mirroring the international closures.
Overall, NADRA’s proactive communication and the availability of digital services demonstrate a commitment to maintaining essential identity management functions even during national and international holidays. This approach helps overseas Pakistanis stay connected with their homeland’s administrative processes while respecting the cultural importance of Eidul Fitr.
