| Country/Region | Normal Fee | Urgent Fee | Executive Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia (SAR) | 75 | 110 | 150 |
| UAE (AED) | 75 | 110 | 150 |
| Pakistan (PKR) | 5,563 | 8,346 | 11,128 |
| Arab Countries (PKR) | 5,500 | 8,300 | 11,000 |
| Zone A (USD) | 39 | 57 | 75 |
| Arab Countries (Online, USD) | 20 | 30 | 40 |
Living abroad brings a unique set of challenges, but maintaining a connection to your homeland shouldn’t be one of them. For millions of Pakistanis residing overseas, the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is more than just a piece of plastic; it is a vital link to their identity and rights within Pakistan. Whether you are looking to visit family without the hassle of a visa, buy property, or open a bank account, a valid NICOP is your gateway.
However, navigating the administrative side of these documents can be confusing. Fee structures change, processing categories vary, and currency differences between regions can make it difficult to know exactly how much you need to pay. If you are planning to apply for a new card or renew an existing one in 2026, understanding the current fee schedule is the first step.
This guide breaks down the NADRA NICOP card fees for 2026, categorizing costs by region, currency, and processing speed. We will cover everything from the specific fees for residents in Saudi Arabia and the UAE to the costs for those applying from the UK, USA, and Canada.
Understanding the NICOP and Its Benefits
Before diving into the financials, it is helpful to understand the utility of this document. The NICOP is issued to citizens of Pakistan who are residing abroad and are nationals of a country that has a dual nationality arrangement with Pakistan. Even for those who have surrendered Pakistani nationality, a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) is an alternative, but for dual nationals, the NICOP is the standard.
Possessing this card eliminates the need for a visa when entering Pakistan. It grants you the right to vote in general elections, open bank accounts, apply for a machine-readable passport, and conduct property transactions legally within the country. Given these benefits, keeping your card valid is essential.
NADRA NICOP Fee Structure 2026
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has structured its fees based on two main factors: the region you are applying from and how quickly you need the card.
NADRA generally divides the world into two zones for fee purposes:
- Zone A: Includes countries in Europe, the Americas, and Australia.
- Zone B: Includes countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
However, fees are also often payable in local currencies depending on where the center is located, or in USD if applying online.
Fees for Applicants in Pakistan (PKR)
If you are visiting Pakistan and decide to apply for or renew your NICOP at a local NADRA center, the fees are charged in Pakistani Rupees (PKR). This is often the most cost-effective method if you happen to be in the country.
- Normal Processing: 5,563 PKR
- Urgent Processing: 8,346 PKR
- Executive Processing: 11,128 PKR
Fees for Applicants in Saudi Arabia (SAR)
For the massive Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia, fees are set in Saudi Riyals (SAR). These rates apply when visiting NADRA facilitation centers within the Kingdom.
- Normal Fee: 75 SAR
- Urgent Fee: 110 SAR
- Executive Fee: 150 SAR
Fees for Applicants in the UAE (AED)
Similarly, for residents in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates, the fee structure is denominated in Dirhams (AED).
- Normal Fee: 75 AED
- Urgent Fee: 110 AED
- Executive Fee: 150 AED
Fees for Zone A: USA, UK, and Canada (USD)
If you are residing in countries categorized under Zone A—which includes the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia—the fees are calculated in US Dollars (USD). This applies when using the online Pak Identity system or visiting missions that charge in USD.
- Normal Fee: $39 USD
- Urgent Fee: $57 USD
- Executive Fee: $75 USD
Fees for Arab Countries (Online vs. Offline)
There is a distinction in fees for applicants in Arab countries depending on the method of application and currency.
Applying in PKR (Likely via specific facilitation setups or drafted payments):
- Normal: 5,500 PKR
- Urgent: 8,300 PKR
- Executive: 11,000 PKR
Applying Online (USD):
If you are in an Arab country but choose to apply via the online portal paying in USD, the rates are significantly subsidized compared to Zone A.
- Normal: $20 USD
- Urgent: $30 USD
- Executive: $40 USD
Processing Categories: Normal, Urgent, and Executive
When you submit your application, you will be asked to choose a processing speed. This choice determines both the cost and the timeline for receiving your card.
Normal Category
This is the most affordable option but requires patience.
- Estimated Time: Approximately 31 days.
- Best For: Individuals who are planning well in advance and do not have immediate travel plans.
Urgent Category
A middle-ground option that balances cost and speed.
- Estimated Time: Approximately 23 days.
- Best For: Those who have upcoming travel plans in a month or so and want to ensure their documentation is ready.
Executive Category
The premium service for immediate needs.
- Estimated Time: Approximately 7 days.
- Best For: Emergency travel or last-minute renewals. If your card has expired and you have a flight booked soon, this is the recommended route.
Note: These timelines are estimates provided by NADRA and can vary based on logistical factors, courier delivery times, and application volume.
How to Apply: Pakistan Overseas Card Apply Online
Gone are the days when you had to stand in long queues at embassies. NADRA has streamlined the process through the Pak Identity website. Here is how you can apply for your Pakistan Overseas Card online:
- Registration: Visit the Pak Identity website and register for an account using your email and mobile number.
- Category Selection: Choose the relevant option (New NICOP, Renewal, or Modification).
- Data Entry: Fill in the required personal forms. You will need to provide details about your family head (father or husband) and your dual nationality.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload the required documents, which usually include a copy of your foreign passport, your existing Pakistani ID (if renewing), and a marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Photograph and Fingerprints: You can now capture biometric data using the Pak Identity mobile app, which saves you the trouble of mailing physical fingerprint forms.
- Payment: Pay the relevant fee (USD) using a credit or debit card.
NICOP Fees in Pakistan for USA, UK, and Canada
A common point of confusion is whether the fee changes based on where you are a citizen versus where you are applying.
If you are a resident of the USA, UK, or Canada, you fall under Zone A. Even if you are physically visiting Pakistan and applying from a local center, you may be subject to specific foreign categories, but generally, the online fee remains pegged to the Zone A dollar rate:
- Normal: $39
- Urgent: $57
- Executive: $75
However, if you are applying physically at a NADRA center inside Pakistan while visiting, you will likely pay the PKR rates mentioned earlier (5,563 PKR for Normal, etc.), provided you have the necessary documentation to prove your stay. Always check with the local center representative, as applying inland is often cheaper than applying online from abroad.
NICOP Renewal Fee in Pakistan
If you already possess a NICOP but it has expired, the renewal process is straightforward. The NICOP renewal fee in Pakistan generally mirrors the new application fee structure.
If you are renewing online from Zone A (USA/UK), you will pay the standard $39/$57/$75 rates. If you are renewing while on vacation in Pakistan at a local center, you will pay the PKR rates starting at 5,563 PKR. Renewal applications follow the same timeline categories (Normal, Urgent, Executive) as new applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the NADRA Urgent NICOP Card fee and time?
For applicants applying within Pakistan, the Urgent fee is 8,346 PKR. For those applying online from Zone A (UK/USA), the Urgent fee is $57 USD. The estimated processing time for Urgent applications is roughly 23 days, though delivery times can vary.
Can I apply for a NICOP if I do not have a Pakistani Passport?
Yes. You do not need a Pakistani passport to apply for a NICOP. You will, however, need to provide proof of your Pakistani lineage (such as a birth certificate or your parents’ CNIC/NICOP) and your foreign passport.
How do I pay the fee online?
The Pak Identity portal accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard). Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions if you are paying in USD.
Is the fee refundable if my application is rejected?
Generally, NADRA processing fees are non-refundable. It is crucial to ensure all your data is accurate and documents are clear before submitting your application to avoid rejection.
Secure Your Identity Early
Securing your NICOP is a fundamental part of maintaining your ties to Pakistan. With the 2026 fee structure now clear, you can budget accordingly and choose the processing speed that matches your schedule. Whether you are paying 75 SAR in Saudi Arabia or $39 USD from New York, applying early is always the best strategy to avoid the stress of expedited processing.
For the most seamless experience, utilize the Pakistan Overseas Card apply online service through the Pak Identity app or website. It saves time, allows for digital tracking, and lets you complete the entire process from the comfort of your home.
