National Identity Card for Pakistanis Living Abroad (NICOP)

The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is issued to Pakistani citizens living abroad who hold citizenship of a country with a dual nationality agreement with Pakistan. It serves as proof of their Pakistani identity and offers many benefits. Any Pakistani citizen can apply for a NICOP, regardless of where they reside. One of its key advantages is that it allows holders to travel to Pakistan without needing a visa. This card is especially useful for maintaining ties with Pakistan while living overseas and ensures access to various services both in Pakistan and abroad.

Eligibility Criteria for Smart NICOP

Smart NICOP can be issued to Pakistani citizens who have obtained the citizenship of certain foreign countries. This document is specifically designed to cater to the needs of overseas Pakistanis, offering them a secure and reliable form of identification. If you are a Pakistani national and have acquired citizenship of a foreign country, you are eligible to apply for a Smart NICOP. This includes individuals who hold dual nationality or have legally migrated to other countries while maintaining their connection with Pakistan. The Smart NICOP ensures that overseas Pakistanis can access various services and retain their identity as Pakistani nationals, even while living abroad.

Serial No	Country
1	Australia
2	Belgium
3	Canada
4	Egypt
5	France
6	Ireland
7	Iceland
8	Italy
9	Jordan
10	Netherland (Holland)
11	New Zealand
12	Sweden
13	Switzerland
14	Syria
15	United Kingdom
16	United State of America
17	Bahrain
18	Finland
19	Denmark
20	Germany
21	Norway

Benefits of National Identity Card for Pakistanis Living Abroad (NICOP)

Visa-Free Travel to Pakistan
Holders of NICOP can enter Pakistan without the need for a visa, even if they possess a foreign passport. This eliminates the hassle of applying for entry permits and ensures seamless travel.
Equal Rights as Pakistani Citizens
NICOP ensures that overseas Pakistanis enjoy the same legal and constitutional rights as citizens residing within Pakistan, including access to various government services.
Official Recognition as a Pakistani Citizen
The NICOP is an official document that provides full recognition of the holder’s status as a Pakistani citizen, ensuring their identity is safeguarded.
Ability to Open Bank Accounts in Pakistan
NICOP holders can open and operate bank accounts in Pakistan, making it easier to manage finances and investments back home.
Eligibility for a Machine-Readable Passport (MRP)
NICOP holders are eligible to apply for a Machine-Readable Passport, which provides convenience in international travel and secure documentation.
Proof of Pakistani Citizenship
The NICOP serves as an official certificate of Pakistani nationality, helping individuals establish their identity whenever required.
Permission to Buy and Sell Property in Pakistan
With a NICOP, overseas Pakistanis can legally buy, sell, and own property in Pakistan, ensuring their investments are secure.
Option to Apply for a POC Card
Pakistani nationals who wish to renounce their nationality can apply for a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) to maintain their connection with Pakistan and access certain privileges.

These benefits make the NICOP an essential document for overseas Pakistanis, ensuring they maintain their rights, identity, and ties with their homeland.

Apply Nicop Online Through Pak Identity

Pak Identity is an online platform by NADRA that makes it easy for Pakistanis worldwide to apply for a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis). You can complete the process from the comfort of your home without visiting any office. Follow these steps to apply:

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for NICOP Online

1. Visit the Pak Identity Website

Go to https://id.nadra.gov.pk on your computer or smartphone.

2. Create an Account

Click on “Create New Account” if you don’t have one.
Provide your email, mobile number, and password.
Verify your email by clicking the link sent to your inbox.

3. Log In to Your Account

Use your registered email and password to log in.
Select the option “New NICOP” from the dashboard.

4. Fill in Your Personal Information

Enter your full name, date of birth, address, and other required details.
Make sure all information matches your official documents (passport or CNIC).

5. Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload scanned copies of these documents:

Your passport (front and back).
Your existing CNIC or Form B (if applicable).
Recent passport-size photograph with a white background.
Proof of relationship for family applications (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).

6. Verify Your Biometric Data

You will need to provide fingerprints and a signature.
Download and print the biometric form from the website.
Fill it, scan it, and upload it back to the portal.

7. Review and Confirm Your Application

Double-check all details for accuracy.
Ensure documents are uploaded in the correct format and are clear.

8. Make the Payment

Pay the application fee using your debit/credit card or other available online payment methods.

9. Track Your Application

After submission, you can track the status of your NICOP on the same portal using your application reference number.

10. Receive Your NICOP

Once your NICOP is processed, it will be delivered to your provided address.
The processing time depends on the type of service selected (normal, urgent, or executive).

NICOP Fee

Application Type	Rs Fee	US Fee	Delivery Time
New Smart NICOP (Normal)	Rs.5,620	US$20	6 Weeks
New Smart NICOP (Urgent)	Rs. 8,440	US$30	4 Weeks
New Smart NICOP (Executive)	Rs. 11,250	US$40	2 Weeks

Difference Between CNIC and NICOP

The CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is a mandatory identity document issued by NADRA for Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan. It is required for basic services like opening a bank account, voting, or purchasing property. On the other hand, NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) is designed for Pakistanis living abroad. It offers similar benefits but also allows overseas Pakistanis to travel to Pakistan without needing a visa. NICOP holders can avail of dual nationality benefits and access consular services abroad. To learn more About CNIC or apply online, visit CNIC Information

Frequently Asked Questions About NICOP

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis), including answers to commonly searched queries:

The approval time depends on the service type selected:

Normal: 7-10 working days
Urgent: 4-5 working days
Executive: 2-3 working days
Processing starts after all required documents are submitted, and biometric verification is complete. You can track the status of your application through the Pak Identity portal.

Typically, NADRA assigns a case officer within 24-48 hours after application submission. If there are any issues with your application, the case officer will contact you for clarification or additional documents.

To change your name on NICOP:

Log in to Pak Identity.
Select the “Name Change” option from the services.
Upload legal documents, such as a court order, marriage certificate, or affidavit, to validate your request.
Submit your application and wait for approval.
Ensure the new name matches all official documents to avoid future discrepancies.

If your name has changed and you have applied for a new NICOP, you can still travel with the old one until the new card is issued. However, ensure you carry documents proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, to avoid complications during travel.

If your NICOP is lost or stolen, immediately apply for a replacement through Pak Identity. You will need to provide an affidavit or police report and pay the replacement fee.