Authority says rules recognize digital ID cards as valid proof of identity, reduce need for unnecessary photocopies
LAHORE:
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) on Friday clarified that digital identity documents issued through its PakID platform have the same legal status as physical identity cards.
NADRA spokesperson Shahbaz Ali noted that some authorities have requested citizens to submit a physical copy or photocopy of their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) instead of accepting the digital version. He stressed that such practices are contrary to existing legal and regulatory frameworks.
Under the National Database and Registration Authority Ordinance 2000 and Digital Identity Regulations 2025, digital identity credentials have the same legal validity, credibility and probative value as physical CNICs, NICOPs or POCs. Government departments, regulated institutions and other organizations are required to accept NADRA-issued digital IDs as valid proof of identity.
The Digital Identity Regulations established under the NADRA Regulation specifically give full legal recognition to digital IDs:
Rule 9: Digital identity information issued or approved by NADRA has the same legal validity, credibility and probative value as physical identity documents.
Rule 10: All government agencies, regulated institutions and organizations requesting proof of identity shall accept NADRA-issued digital credentials as valid identification.
NADRA said the rules recognize digital IDs as valid identity proofs, reduce the need for unnecessary photocopies and help protect citizens’ personal data while preventing misuse of identity information.
The authority called on all government departments, public and financial institutions and telecom operators to fully comply with these regulations. Citizens can lodge complaints through NADRA’s official complaint system if an office or institution fails to accept digital IDs.
