ISLAMABAD: The federal government has upgraded Pakistan’s National Identity Card (NIC) and Pakistan Origin Card (POC) systems under its vision of “One Nation – One Identity.” The move aims to make the country’s identity system more secure, modern, and digital.
The changes were made through SRO 330(I)/2026 and SRO 331(I)/2026, published in the official Gazette on February 24, 2026. These amendments introduce QR code verification, stronger biometric security, better fraud control, and improved services for citizens.
Under the new rules, a QR code has been legally added as a key security feature on identity documents. The QR code stores identity details and allows quick verification when scanned. The rules also allow NADRA to use QR codes or any new technology in the future without needing repeated legal changes.
With these reforms, all citizens will receive one uniform ID card. The old system of chip-based and non-chip cards will end. The new QR-based cards will support faster online and offline verification, reduce manual checks, improve service delivery, and lower the risk of fraud and impersonation.
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The government has also strengthened fraud control. If an identity card is suspended, all related verification and authentication services will automatically stop. This will prevent misuse of suspended cards on digital or official platforms.
Biometric security has been improved as well. The updated rules officially recognise fingerprints and iris scans as valid methods of identity verification.
As a major relief step, citizens aged 60 years and above, whether living in Pakistan or abroad, will be issued lifetime ID cards. These cards will carry a special senior citizen logo, removing the need for repeated renewals.
The amendments also standardise identity cards for residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Their cards will now include a clear inscription showing their residency status.
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In addition, the government has updated the design of all major identity cards. This includes cards for resident citizens, overseas Pakistanis, persons with disabilities, children, organ donors, combined categories, and AJK residents. All new designs will follow one standard format and include QR code security.
Overall, the 2026 amendments strengthen Pakistan’s national identity system by improving digital trust, reducing fraud, enabling faster verification, and making services easier for citizens. The reforms also prepare the country for future digital governance with a secure and modern identity system.
