NADRA Identity Card Name Change – Complete Online Process & Fee Details. The NADRA Identity Card Name Change process allows Pakistani citizens to officially update or correct their names on their CNIC. Whether due to spelling errors, marriage, or a legal name change, NADRA now offers both online and offline methods to make the process simple and transparent. This article explains the complete NADRA name change procedure, required documents, and updated fee structure to help applicants avoid delays.
Why You Might Need a NADRA CNIC Name Change
Name changes on CNICs are common for several reasons:
- Spelling errors in the original ID.
- Marriage or divorce, leading to surname changes.
- Legal name updates approved by the court.
- Cultural or religious adjustments to match identity documents.
Even a minor name mismatch can cause verification problems in passports, bank accounts, or educational records. Keeping your NADRA ID card information accurate ensures smooth verification in all official transactions.
How to Apply Online for NADRA Identity Card Name Change (2025)
The online NADRA name change process can be completed through the Pak ID Portal, without visiting any NADRA office.
- Go to the official Pak ID Portal:
id.nadra.gov.pk - Log in or create a new Pak ID account.
- Choose “Modify ID Card (Name Correction)”.
- Carefully enter your updated name details.
- Upload required documents for verification.
- Pay the NADRA name change fee online.
- Submit your application and track progress using your Pak ID account.
Once approved, your updated CNIC will be printed and sent directly to your address.
Required Documents for NADRA ID Card Name Change
To complete your name change request, you must provide the following documents:
| Document | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|
| Original CNIC & photocopy | For identity verification |
| Marriage Certificate | For post-marriage name updates |
| Court Order | For legal or major name changes |
| Educational Certificate | For correcting spelling mistakes |
| Affidavit | To verify your reason for the name change |
NADRA Identity Card Name Change Fee Structure
The NADRA fee for CNIC name change varies depending on the type of card and urgency level.
| Card Type | Normal Fee | Urgent Fee | Executive Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart CNIC | Rs. 400 | Rs. 800 | Rs. 1,600 |
For overseas Pakistanis, fees may vary slightly due to international delivery and verification charges.
NADRA Name Spelling Correction via Pak ID Portal
If your issue is only a spelling mistake, NADRA allows you to correct it through the Pak ID system with minimal documentation. Usually, you only need to provide:
- Birth certificate, or
- Matriculation certificate showing the correct spelling.
This helps ensure that your CNIC name matches other official records without requiring a full name change process.
How to Apply Offline (Visit NADRA Registration Center)
If you prefer an in-person process, visit your nearest NADRA Registration Center (NRC).
- Request a Name Change Form from the counter.
- Fill it carefully with your updated details.
- Provide biometric verification and submit your supporting documents.
- Pay the relevant processing fee.
- Receive a tracking ID to monitor your application status.
You can later check your CNIC status online through Pak ID tracking or by SMS.
How to Check NADRA CNIC Status Online
Once you’ve applied for a modification, tracking your CNIC status is simple:
- Pak ID Portal: Log in to
id.nadra.gov.pkand check your application progress. - SMS Method: Send your 13-digit CNIC number to 8400 for instant status updates.
This ensures you can follow every stage of your NADRA name change process in real-time.
NADRA ID Card Name Change for Overseas Pakistanis
Overseas Pakistanis holding a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) can also apply for name changes or spelling corrections through the Pak ID portal.
Applicants can upload scanned documents, pay fees online, and receive their updated NICOP by mail at their foreign address. This feature helps expatriates maintain accurate Pakistani identity records without returning to Pakistan.
Important Tips Before Applying
- Double-check your name spelling before submitting.
- Make sure all documents reflect the same name format.
- Keep your Pak ID login credentials safe for future updates.
- Use the same name format across all official IDs (passport, CNIC, and educational certificates).
These steps help avoid unnecessary delays, document rejections, or mismatched records during verification.
Final Thought
The NADRA Identity Card Name Change process has become faster and more efficient thanks to the Pak ID online system. Whether it’s a simple spelling correction or a full legal name update, NADRA ensures a secure, transparent, and user-friendly process for all citizens.
Keep your CNIC information accurate to ensure smooth verification for banking, travel, and government services.
FAQs
1. How long does the NADRA name change process take?
Usually, it takes 7 to 15 working days, depending on verification and the chosen processing type (Normal, Urgent, or Executive).
2. Can I track my NADRA name change application status?
Yes, you can track it using your Pak ID account or by sending your CNIC number to 8400 via SMS.
3. Is there any verification after applying?
In some cases, NADRA may call or verify documents—especially in legal name change applications—to confirm authenticity.
