What is the difference between CNIC, NICOP, and POC?

CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is for residents inside Pakistan. NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) is for Pakistani citizens living abroad. POC (Pakistan Origin Card) is for foreign nationals of Pakistani origin who have given up citizenship.

What size photo is needed for CNIC?

CNIC photos must be 35mm wide × 45mm tall. For online applications through Pak Identity app, photos should be at least 413 × 531 pixels in JPEG format. Both white and light blue backgrounds are acceptable.

Can I wear glasses in CNIC photo?

It's recommended to remove glasses for CNIC/NICOP photos. If you must wear prescription glasses, ensure there is no glare or reflection, and your eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not allowed.

How many photos are needed for CNIC application?

For walk-in NADRA office applications, you need 2 identical photos (35×45mm). For online applications through Pak Identity app, only one digital photo upload is required.

🪪 NADRA Compliant

CNIC & NICOP Photo Requirements

شناختی کارڈ فوٹو

Create photos for CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card), NICOP (Overseas Pakistanis), and POC (Pakistan Origin Card). NADRA compliant 35×45mm size.

Create CNIC Photo → Create NICOP Photo →

👤

35 × 45 mm

NADRA

NADRA Card Types

CNIC

Domestic

Computerized National Identity Card for Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan.

✓ 18+ years (CNIC)
✓ Below 18 (JIC/CRC)
✓ Valid 5-10 years

Create CNIC Photo →

NICOP

Overseas

National ID Card for Overseas Pakistanis living abroad. Same legal status as CNIC.

✓ Pakistani citizens abroad
✓ Valid for banking/property
✓ Visa-free entry to Pakistan

Create NICOP Photo →

POC

Origin

Pakistan Origin Card for foreign nationals of Pakistani descent who renounced citizenship.

✓ Former Pakistani citizens
✓ Visa-free travel to Pakistan
✓ Property ownership rights

Create POC Photo →

Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	35 × 45 mm
In Inches	1.38 × 1.77 inches
Digital (minimum)	413 × 531 px
File Format	JPEG
Max File Size	5 MB

Photo Standards

✓ White or light blue background
✓ Recent photo (within 6 months)
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Face centered, looking at camera
✓ Religious head covering allowed
✗ Glasses not recommended
✗ No smiling or open mouth

How to Apply for CNIC/NICOP

Inside Pakistan (CNIC)

1 Download Pak Identity App or visit NADRA office
2 Fill application form with personal details
3 Upload/submit photo (35×45mm)
4 Provide biometrics (fingerprints)
5 Pay fee & collect card after processing

Fee: PKR 400 (Normal) | PKR 700 (Urgent)

Outside Pakistan (NICOP)

1 Apply online at id.nadra.gov.pk
2 Upload photo (JPEG, max 5MB)
3 Pay fee online (card/bank transfer)
4 Visit Pakistan Embassy for biometrics
5 Card delivered by courier

Fee: $25 (Normal) | $50 (Urgent)

SNIC vs Regular CNIC

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SNIC (Smart Card)

✓ Embedded chip with biometric data
✓ Higher security features
✓ Valid for 10 years
✓ Same photo requirements

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Regular CNIC

• Standard plastic card
• Basic security features
• Valid for 5 years
• Being phased out

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed for CNIC application? ▼

For new CNIC:

B-Form (for first-time applicants)
Original documents of parents/family members
Educational documents (Matric certificate)
2 photographs (35×45mm)

For renewal:

Expired CNIC original
2 recent photographs

Can I apply for NICOP if I don't have a CNIC? ▼

Yes, you can apply for NICOP even if you never had a CNIC. You'll need to provide:

Proof of Pakistani citizenship (B-Form, old passport, etc.)
Parent's CNIC copies
Your current foreign passport
Photographs meeting NADRA specifications

What's the difference between white and blue background? ▼

Both white and light blue backgrounds are accepted for CNIC/NICOP photos. However:

White: Preferred for most applications
Light blue: Also acceptable, traditional choice
Avoid dark blue or any colored backgrounds
Background must be uniform without patterns

How long does CNIC/NICOP processing take? ▼

CNIC (Inside Pakistan):

Normal: 15-20 working days
Urgent: 3-7 working days

NICOP (Overseas):

Normal: 3-4 weeks (after biometrics)
Urgent: 1-2 weeks
Executive: 3-5 days

Create Your CNIC/NICOP Photo Now

NADRA compliant 35×45mm photo. Perfect for Pak Identity app upload. 100% free, instant download.

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