The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has rolled out a massive nationwide network of e-franchise centres, aimed at making CNIC renewal and replacement faster, easier, and more accessible for citizens. This initiative is designed to reduce overcrowding at NADRA registration centres and bring essential identity services closer to people’s homes, especially in densely populated urban and semi-urban areas.
With the launch of these authorised e-franchise centres, citizens no longer need to stand in long queues at main NADRA offices. Instead, they can now visit approved local centres operating within their own neighbourhoods to complete basic CNIC-related services. This move is expected to save time, reduce travel costs, and significantly improve the overall public service experience.
NADRA spokesperson Syed Shabahat Ali revealed that the project initially began as a pilot initiative with only 18 e-franchise centres. Due to an overwhelmingly positive public response and high demand, the network was rapidly expanded. Today, more than 2,000 e-franchise centres are operational across Pakistan, marking a major step forward in decentralising NADRA’s services.
The process at these centres is simple, secure, and citizen-friendly. Applicants are not required to own a smartphone or have internet access. Citizens only need to provide their CNIC number, after which their photograph and biometric data, including fingerprints, are verified directly through NADRA’s central database. This ensures both accuracy and data security throughout the process.
At present, the e-franchise centres are authorised to handle CNIC renewals and replacements for lost cards. Importantly, citizens are not required to submit a First Information Report (FIR) for lost CNIC replacements, which has removed a major hurdle faced by applicants in the past. NADRA has indicated that additional services may be added in future phases.
To address concerns regarding data privacy, NADRA has also strengthened transparency measures. Through the Pak-Identity mobile application, citizens can track when, how, and by whom their personal information—such as CNIC numbers, fingerprints, and QR codes—has been accessed. This feature aims to build public trust and ensure responsible data usage.
In another significant reform, NADRA has eased the CNIC application process for women. Female applicants are no longer required to present their parents’ CNICs. They can now apply using their B-Form, marriage certificate, and their husband’s registration details, a change that has been widely welcomed for reducing documentation hurdles.
Overall, the expansion of NADRA’s e-franchise centres reflects the authority’s efforts to modernise public services, improve accessibility, and reduce administrative burden. The initiative is expected to benefit millions of citizens nationwide by delivering faster and more convenient CNIC services.
Also read: NADRA Plans New Mega Center in Karachi
