The Government of Pakistan has officially introduced major amendments to the country’s identity card framework, modernizing the structure and security of national identification documents. The changes were notified through S.R.O. 330(I)/2026 and S.R.O. 331(I)/2026 under Section 44 of the National Database and Registration Authority Ordinance, 2000, and published in the Gazette of Pakistan on February 24, 2026.
These amendments update the National Identity Card Rules, 2002 and the Pakistan Origin Card Rules, 2002, introducing new technological features, stronger authentication mechanisms, and citizen-friendly improvements.
A key reform is the statutory introduction of QR-based verification on Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). The updated rules formally define the Quick Response (QR) code as a secure, machine-readable two-dimensional barcode capable of storing encoded identity data. Once scanned, the QR code can instantly convert the stored information into usable verification details.
The legal framework now authorizes the use of “QR code or any other technological feature” in place of the existing microchip system. This gives National Database and Registration Authority the flexibility to adopt future verification technologies without requiring repeated rule amendments. The change also means citizens will carry a standardized card format instead of the two current versions — one with a microchip and one without.
The QR-enabled feature strengthens Pakistan’s Digital ID ecosystem and supports interoperability through the National Data Exchange Layer. It enables faster front-end identity validation while allowing backend systems to verify authenticity securely. This is expected to enhance efficiency across government departments and regulated sectors, reduce manual processing, and minimize fraud and impersonation risks.
The amendments also reinforce enforcement measures. If a CNIC is suspended, all associated verification and authentication services will be immediately halted. This ensures that a suspended card cannot continue to function in digital systems or institutional verification processes, closing a significant security gap.
Biometric authentication has also been strengthened. The updated rules explicitly recognize fingerprints and iris scans as part of a more robust, multi-modal biometric verification framework. This move enhances identity assurance standards and aligns Pakistan’s system with global best practices.
For senior citizens, the reforms introduce a major facilitation measure. Individuals aged 60 years and above, whether resident or non-resident, will now receive CNICs bearing a distinct senior citizen logo with lifetime validity. This eliminates the need for renewals and reduces administrative burden for elderly citizens.
Additionally, residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir will have standardized identification with a specific inscription indicating their regional status. The updated specimen formats also cover overseas Pakistanis, child registration certificates, persons with disabilities, organ donors, and combined identity categories. All new formats visibly incorporate QR codes and enhanced security layouts.
Overall, the reforms represent a significant step toward secure digital governance in Pakistan, strengthening identity verification, improving service delivery, and modernizing the national documentation system.