How to Obtain NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis in Islamabad & Peshawar — Process & Timelines?

Obtaining a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is essential for Pakistani citizens residing abroad, providing visa-free travel to Pakistan, access to banking, property ownership, and other services without renouncing foreign nationality. For overseas Pakistanis visiting or based in Islamabad and Peshawar, the process can be handled through NADRA centers in these cities, offering a convenient option for in-person applications or renewals. This blog provides a detailed guide on how to obtain or renew a NICOP in Islamabad and Peshawar, including eligibility, steps, documents, fees, and timelines. As of September 18 2025, NADRA’s Pak-Identity portal and e-services have streamlined applications, with biometric verification mandatory for all.

The NICOP is issued under the NADRA Ordinance 2000 and Pakistan Citizenship Act 1951, catering to dual nationals from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. While primarily online, local NADRA centers in Islamabad and Peshawar facilitate walk-ins or support for complex cases, ensuring compliance with dual nationality rules.

Understanding NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis

NICOP serves as a smart identity card for Pakistanis living abroad, valid for 5 or 10 years depending on the type (normal or executive). It proves Pakistani origin without requiring a visa for entry and is crucial for overseas Pakistanis maintaining ties with their homeland. Eligibility extends to any Pakistani citizen abroad, including those with dual nationality from approved countries, children born overseas to Pakistani parents, and spouses of Pakistani nationals.

Unlike the CNIC, NICOP does not require renunciation of foreign citizenship and includes features like biometric data for security. For applicants in Pakistan temporarily, applying via local centers avoids international shipping delays. Common uses include voting in overseas elections or accessing consular services.

For eligibility verification, especially in dual nationality cases, NICOP eligibility lawyers in Islamabad can review documents and advise on compliance.

Legal Framework for NICOP Issuance

The issuance of NICOP is governed by the NADRA Ordinance 2000, which empowers NADRA to maintain national databases and issue identity documents. The Pakistan Citizenship Act 1951 ensures rights for overseas citizens, while the Pakistan Citizenship Rules 1952 outline procedural aspects. Dual nationality is permitted under Section 14 of the Act for citizens of 22 specified countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations.

NADRA’s guidelines mandate online applications via the Pak-Identity portal, with in-person verification at authorized centers. For overseas Pakistanis applying in Pakistan, centers in Islamabad and Peshawar fall under NADRA’s zonal offices, ensuring federal standards. As of 2025, amendments emphasize digital processing to reduce fraud, with biometric matching required.

Challenges include discrepancies in foreign records, but courts like the Islamabad High Court have ruled in favor of applicants with valid proofs.

Eligibility Criteria for NICOP

To qualify for NICOP, applicants must be Pakistani citizens by birth, descent, or marriage, residing abroad or holding dual nationality from approved countries. Children under 18 can apply through parents, with proof of Pakistani parentage via birth certificates or passports. Spouses of overseas Pakistanis need marriage proof and the spouse’s NICOP/CNIC.

Applicants must not have renounced Pakistani citizenship formally. For those in Pakistan temporarily, no minimum stay is required, but valid foreign passports are essential. Smart NICOP is available for adults 18+, while minors receive non-smart versions.

In border areas like Peshawar, additional scrutiny may apply for applicants with Afghan ties, requiring domicile proofs. For precise checks, overseas identity attorneys in Peshawar assist with eligibility assessments.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain NICOP

The process combines online submission with in-person verification at NADRA centers in Islamabad or Peshawar.

1. Register on the Pak-Identity portal (id.nadra.gov.pk) using an email and create an account. Select NICOP application (new, renewal, or modification).
2. Fill the online form with personal details, including foreign passport number, address abroad, and Pakistani contact (e.g., relative’s CNIC for delivery).
3. Upload scanned documents and pay fees online via debit/credit card (Bank Alfalah for international payments).
4. Schedule biometrics at a NADRA center in Islamabad (e.g., G-10 Markaz) or Peshawar (e.g., Hayatabad Phase V). Walk-ins are possible but appointments via the portal are preferred.
5. Visit the center for fingerprint, photo, and signature capture; staff verify originals.
6. Track status via the portal or SMS to 7000 using the tracking ID. Upon approval, the NICOP is printed in Islamabad and dispatched via courier (DHL for international, TCS domestically).
7. Receive the card at the provided address; for collection in Pakistan, opt for center pickup.

For minors or family applications (FRC), parents must attend. The portal supports English and Urdu.

For procedural support, NICOP application lawyers in Islamabad guide through portal issues and center visits.

Required Documents for NICOP Application

Applicants need a valid Pakistani passport (expired acceptable), foreign passport, and previous NICOP/CNIC if renewing. For first-time applicants, provide parents’ CNICs/NICOPs, birth certificate, and marriage certificate if applicable. Proof of address abroad (utility bill or residence permit) and two witnesses’ NICOP/CNIC details are required.

For children, include old Form-B or school records. All foreign documents must be attested by the Pakistani embassy. Digital uploads must be clear scans; originals are checked at the center.

In Peshawar, additional affidavits may be needed for regional verifications. For document attestation, dual nationality attorneys in Peshawar ensure compliance.