NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis – Complete Guide
Table of Contents
- What is NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis?
- Why NICOP is Important for Overseas Pakistanis
- Eligibility Criteria for NICOP
- Documents Required for NICOP in 2025
- How to Apply for NICOP – Step-by-Step Guide
- NICOP Fee Structure 2025
- Benefits of Having a NICOP
- Latest NADRA Updates in 2025
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis?
The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to Pakistani citizens who reside abroad or intend to do so.
With NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis, you can:
- Travel to Pakistan visa-free (if you are a dual national)
- Legally prove your Pakistani citizenship abroad
- Access various services and facilities in Pakistan, such as banking, property ownership, and legal rights
Why NICOP is Important for Overseas Pakistanis
For Pakistani expatriates, NICOP is more than an ID card — it is an official recognition of your roots, rights, and nationality.
- Visa-Free Entry to Pakistan – Skip long visa applications
- Proof of Citizenship – Official recognition by the Government of Pakistan
- Access to Government Services – Banking, property, and voting rights
- Travel Ease – Faster immigration clearance
- Security for Children Born Abroad – Eligible for NICOP
Eligibility Criteria for NICOP
- Pakistani citizens living abroad
- Dual nationals
- Children born abroad to Pakistani parents
- Pakistani citizens planning to settle overseas permanently
Documents Required for NICOP in 2025
For Adults:
- Valid Pakistani Passport or CNIC
- Valid foreign passport (for dual nationals)
- Proof of residence abroad
- Recent passport-size photograph
For Children:
- Birth certificate
- Foreign passport
- Pakistani parents’ CNIC/NICOP
How to Apply for NICOP – Step-by-Step Guide
Applying at NADRA Registration Centre
- Visit your nearest NADRA Centre in Pakistan
- Get a token
- Photograph taken on-site
- Biometric fingerprints & signature
- Form review & submission
- Pay NICOP fee and collect receipt
Applying at Pakistani Embassy/Consulate
- Visit Pakistani embassy or consulate
- Submit application form & documents
- Provide biometrics & photographs
- Pay applicable NICOP fee
Applying Online via Pak Identity
The Pak Identity portal https://id.nadra.gov.pk/e-id/ is the easiest way for overseas Pakistanis to apply.
- Create an account and log in
- Select NICOP application
- Fill in personal details and upload documents
- Pay NICOP fee online
- Track application status online
- Receive NICOP at your home address
NICOP Fee Structure 2025
Processing Type | Fee (PKR) |
---|---|
Normal | 11,340 |
Urgent | 16,589 |
Executive | 21,820 |
Benefits of Having a NICOP
- Visa-free entry to Pakistan
- Legal recognition as a Pakistani citizen
- Faster immigration clearance
- Access to Pakistani bank accounts
- Eligibility to own property in Pakistan
Latest NADRA Updates in 2025
NADRA has launched an updated Pak ID mobile app offering:
- Apply for NICOP, CNIC renewal, and other documents
- Real-time application tracking
- Digital ID verification
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does NICOP take to process?
Normal: 4–6 weeks, Urgent: 2–3 weeks, Executive: 1 week.
Q2: Can I renew my NICOP online?
Yes, renewal is available via Pak Identity.
Q3: Is NICOP mandatory for overseas Pakistanis?
It is not mandatory but highly recommended.
Q4: Can I use NICOP instead of a Pakistani passport?
NICOP is not a substitute for a passport but allows visa-free entry to Pakistan.