How to Apply for Pakistan Origin Card (POC) in Islamabad & Peshawar — Step-by-Step?

The Pakistan Origin Card (POC) is a vital identity document issued to eligible foreign nationals of Pakistani origin. It enables them to retain a formal link with Pakistan, providing access to multiple privileges such as visa-free entry, permission to open bank accounts, and participation in investment opportunities. For applicants in Islamabad and Peshawar, the process requires an understanding of eligibility requirements, documentation, and the submission procedure to ensure timely approval.

Nouman Muhib Kakakhel – Lawyer & Legal Consultant offers professional guidance to applicants navigating the process of securing a POC.

Eligibility Criteria for POC Applicants

Before applying, it is crucial to determine whether you qualify for the Pakistan Origin Card. Eligibility typically extends to foreign spouses of Pakistani citizens, children of Pakistani nationals born abroad, and individuals who previously held Pakistani nationality but later acquired foreign citizenship. Proof of lineage or marital ties to Pakistan forms the basis of eligibility. Misunderstanding this stage often causes delays or outright rejections of applications.

Applicants who want clarity on eligibility can benefit from consulting POC eligibility advisors in Pakistan to confirm whether they meet the NADRA requirements.

Required Documents for Pakistan Origin Card

The documentation process for a POC application is highly detail-oriented. Core requirements usually include a valid foreign passport, evidence of Pakistani origin such as a parent’s CNIC or NICOP, proof of marital relationship in case of spousal applications, and photographs that meet NADRA standards. For children, the birth certificate must establish a parental link to Pakistan. Incomplete or improperly certified documents often lead to unnecessary complications in the application review process.

Seeking guidance from POC documentation experts in Pakistan ensures that every record is prepared in line with NADRA’s formal standards.

Application Procedure in Islamabad & Peshawar

The application process can be initiated online through NADRA’s official portal or by visiting the NADRA Registration Centers (NRCs) located in Islamabad and Peshawar. Applicants are required to create an account, fill in personal details, upload supporting documents, and submit biometric information during the verification stage. Once the application is submitted, NADRA conducts a thorough background check before issuing the card. Processing timelines may vary depending on the completeness of documentation and workload at the centers.

Applicants often seek assistance from POC application services in Islamabad and Peshawar to streamline the process and avoid procedural mistakes.

Common Challenges in the POC Process

Despite NADRA’s clear framework, applicants frequently encounter hurdles such as discrepancies in supporting documents, name mismatches between foreign passports and Pakistani records, or delays caused by incomplete applications. For those in Islamabad and Peshawar, these issues can prolong approval or even result in rejection. Timely resolution often requires professional oversight to ensure that inconsistencies are corrected before submission.

Turning to professional POC consultants in Pakistan can significantly reduce the chances of encountering these avoidable challenges.