| Service Type | Normal (30 Days) | Urgent (12 Days) | Executive (07 Days) |
| New Smart NIC Card Fee | 750 | 1,500 | 2,500 |
| Smart NIC Renewal Card Fee | 750 | 1,500 | 2,500 |
| Smart NIC Modification Card Fee | 750 | 1,500 | 2,500 |
| Smart NIC Duplicate Card Fee | 750 | 1,500 | 2,500 |
| Smart NIC Non-Printable Field Modification Card Fee | 100 | N/A | N/A |
Identity documentation is the bedrock of civic life in Pakistan. Whether you are opening a bank account, applying for a passport, or voting in an election, your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is the single most critical document you own. In recent years, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has transitioned towards the “Smart NIC” a chip-based card that offers enhanced security and functionality compared to the older generation of ID cards.
If you need to apply for a new Smart NIC, renew an expiring one, or modify your existing details, knowing the costs involved is the first step. NADRA offers three processing categories Normal, Urgent, and Executive each with its own timeline and fee structure. Choosing the right category depends entirely on how quickly you need the document in your hand.
Navigating government fee structures can sometimes feel confusing, but NADRA has standardized these rates to make the process transparent. This guide breaks down the exact fees for 2026, helping you budget for your application without any surprises. Whether you are applying for the first time or replacing a lost card, here is everything you need to know about the current fee schedule.
Processing Categories
Before diving into the specific rupee amounts, it is important to understand what you are paying for. NADRA distinguishes its services based on the speed of delivery. This tiered system allows citizens to prioritize speed if they are in a rush, or save money if they can afford to wait.
- Normal: This is the most affordable option. It typically takes around 30 days to process your application. This is ideal if your current card hasn’t expired yet or if you are planning well in advance.
- Urgent: If you need your card faster than the standard month-long wait, the Urgent category delivers within approximately 12 days. The fee is higher, but the turnaround time is significantly reduced.
- Executive: For those who need their ID card immediately perhaps for urgent travel or legal matters the Executive service is the premium option. It aims to deliver your Smart NIC in just 7 days.
Fee Structure for New Smart NIC
Getting your first Smart NIC is a rite of passage. This chip-based card secures your identity with biometric data and prevents forgery.
If you are applying for a New Smart NIC, the fees are as follows:
- Normal (30 Days): Rs. 750
- Urgent (12 Days): Rs. 1,500
- Executive (7 Days): Rs. 2,500
Fee Structure for Smart NIC Renewal
CNICs generally have a validity period of 10 years. Once your card expires, it is no longer valid for official transactions. Renewing a Smart NIC follows the exact same pricing model as a new application.
The costs for Renewal are:
- Normal (30 Days): Rs. 750
- Urgent (12 Days): Rs. 1,500
- Executive (7 Days): Rs. 2,500
Fee Structure for Smart NIC Modification
Life changes, and sometimes your ID card needs to reflect that. You might need to change your marital status, update your permanent address, or correct a spelling error in your name. Modifying the data printed on your card requires the issuance of a new physical card, so standard printing fees apply.
The fees for Modification are:
- Normal (30 Days): Rs. 750
- Urgent (12 Days): Rs. 1,500
- Executive (7 Days): Rs. 2,500
Non-Printable Field Modification
There is an exception to the standard modification fees. If you need to update information that is stored in the chip but not printed on the face of the card (such as updating a mobile number or certain biometric details that don’t alter the visual card), the fee is significantly lower.
- Fee: Rs. 100
Note: Since this does not require printing a new card in the same way, the standard 30/12/7 day timeline structure may not apply in the same rigid sense, though processing times can vary.
Fee Structure for Duplicate Smart NIC
Losing a wallet is stressful, and losing your ID card along with it is even worse. If your Smart NIC has been lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use, you will need to apply for a Duplicate card.
The fees for a Duplicate Smart NIC are:
- Normal (30 Days): Rs. 750
- Urgent (12 Days): Rs. 1,500
- Executive (7 Days): Rs. 2,500
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay these fees online?
Yes, NADRA has introduced digital payment methods. You can pay via the Pak Identity mobile app or website using a credit/debit card or other integrated payment solutions like JazzCash or Easypaisa, depending on the current active gateways.
Are these fees refundable?
Generally, NADRA fees are non-refundable once the application process has started. If you choose the wrong category or make an error, rectifying it might require a new application fee, so it is crucial to double-check your details before submission.
Do these fees apply to Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)?
No. The fees listed above are strictly for the Smart National Identity Card (SNIC) issued to citizens residing within Pakistan. The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) has a completely different fee structure usually denominated in US Dollars.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Deciding which fee tier to select comes down to your personal timeline. If you have plenty of time before your current card expires, the Normal category saves you a significant amount of money Rs. 1,750 compared to the Executive rate. However, the convenience of the Executive service is undeniable when time is of the essence.
By keeping this fee structure in mind, you can approach your NADRA visit prepared and confident, ensuring your documentation remains valid and up to date without unnecessary delays.
