Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has said citizens do not need to file a First Information Report (FIR) with police to obtain a replacement for a lost Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC).
The clarification followed a question from a citizen on social media. NADRA described the matter as a common misunderstanding about what is needed to replace a lost identity card.
What NADRA says about FIR requirements
NADRA said it has no policy requiring applicants to submit an FIR copy before their application is accepted or processed. It added that applicants would not be asked for an FIR copy simply to explain why they need another card.
The authority said reporting a loss to police could serve as a precaution against possible misuse of a lost card. However, it stressed that this is not a compulsory step for obtaining a replacement.
How to apply for a replacement CNIC
Citizens who have lost their CNIC can visit a NADRA registration centre to apply. Alternatively, they can submit applications through the Pak ID online service, the authority said.
