The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced iris scanning as a new biometric feature for issuing Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) and Child Registration Certificates (B-Forms), aiming to strengthen identity verification and prevent identity fraud.
Under the upgraded system, applicants visiting NADRA registration centers will now have their fingerprints, facial image, and iris patterns captured during the registration process. According to NADRA officials, iris recognition provides an additional layer of security because every individual’s iris pattern is unique and remains highly reliable for identification.
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The authority has equipped nearly 5,000 registration counters across Pakistan with the new technology. Mobile registration devices will also be deployed in schools and union councils to collect children’s biometric data, helping improve identity protection and reduce the risk of child identity theft and human trafficking.
NADRA has also revised the validity rules for B-Forms. Under the updated policy, a B-Form issued at birth will now expire when the child turns three years old. At that stage, parents must renew the document, during which the child’s photograph and iris scan will be recorded. The renewed B-Form will remain valid until the child reaches 10 years of age.
When the child turns 10, another renewal will be required. During this stage, NADRA will collect fingerprints in addition to updating the child’s biometric record. The renewed B-Form will then remain valid until the age of 18.
According to NADRA, these changes are designed to build a more secure and accurate national identity database, improve child protection measures, and ensure stronger identity verification throughout every stage of a citizen’s life.
