NADRA Introduces QR Code-Based National Identity Card

ISLAMABAD, August 14: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced a new QR code-based national identity card manufactured in Pakistan, replacing the imported microchip with a secure QR code as part of the country’s efforts to strengthen self-reliance in identity documentation.

The new identity card is manufactured in Pakistan using polycarbonate material and is being introduced in phases from August 14, replacing the existing chip-less Teslin identity card.

According to NADRA, the secure QR code embedded in the new card will allow the identity of the cardholder to be verified using an ordinary smartphone. The QR code can also be scanned through the PakID mobile application to verify the cardholder’s identity information.

The QR code will contain relevant identification information and the cardholder’s photograph. NADRA said the system would help reduce errors in the entry and verification of names, addresses and other identification details.

To facilitate digital verification, NADRA will provide QR code verification software to authorized entities, including telecom companies, banks, hospitals, Pakistan Railways, police and other relevant institutions.

The new identity card will also carry the family number and designated symbols for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, organ donors and citizens of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The cardholder’s name and address will be printed in both Urdu and English, providing greater convenience for identification and verification purposes.

The QR code-based card is being rolled out in phases from August 14, replacing the existing chip-less Teslin identity card. From January 2027, the new QR code-based card will be issued for all categories of national identity documents, including the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) and Juvenile Cards.

In the final phase, the Pakistan Origin Card (POC) will also be transitioned to the chip-less, QR code-based identity card.

NADRA clarified that all identity cards already issued will remain valid until their respective expiry dates. Existing cardholders therefore will not be required to replace their cards immediately.

The introduction of the locally manufactured card marks a significant step toward reducing reliance on imported microchips and strengthening Pakistan’s domestic capacity in the production of secure identity documents.

The new system is also expected to make identity verification more accessible, secure and efficient by combining a locally manufactured physical card with QR code-based digital verification.