How to Apply for NICOP in USA – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is the most essential identification document for every Pakistani living abroad. We understand how overwhelming the process may seem, especially if you are applying for NICOP in USA for the first time. Therefore, we created the most detailed, authoritative, and updated 2025 guide to help you complete your NICOP application without stress, delays, or rejections.
This most comprehensive guide explains every detail about eligibility, required documents, the online Pak-Identity method, biometric steps, NADRA appointment procedures, fee structure, processing timelines, corrections, renewals, and professional tips that most applicants overlook. We also include comparison tables, practical checklists, and strategic insights that make your NICOP application smoother and faster than ever before.
What is NICOP and Why Overseas Pakistanis in the USA Must Have it?
NICOP, or the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis, is an official identity document issued by NADRA to Pakistani citizens who live outside Pakistan. It is legally recognized worldwide and serves as a primary proof of Pakistani nationality.
NICOP functions as both an identity document and a visa-free entry card for Pakistan. This dual value makes it mandatory for most legal, financial, and travel-related activities connected to Pakistan.
Why NICOP Is Essential for Pakistanis in the USA?
NICOP grants visa-free, multiple-entry access to Pakistan. Moreover, it provides strong proof of Pakistani citizenship for official and legal procedures. Property ownership and transfer also require this card, which makes it vital for anyone managing assets in Pakistan.
You must present NICOP when opening or maintaining a Pakistani bank account. In addition, it plays a key role in inheritance cases and family settlements. Many business owners also depend on NICOP because it is necessary for company registration and several tax-related processes.
Travel becomes easier with NICOP because it speeds up immigration checks at Pakistani airports. It further helps dual nationals maintain their legal identity and avoid documentation issues during official verifications. Since NICOP protects critical rights and access to important services, we recommend obtaining it before planning any travel or legal activity in Pakistan.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply for NICOP in USA?
You are eligible to apply for NICOP if you fall into any of the following categories. These categories cover almost all overseas Pakistanis living, studying, or working in the United States.
You can apply if you are:
- Pakistani citizens currently residing in the USA
- Dual nationals holding both Pakistani and U.S. nationality
- Pakistani origin individuals born in the United States
- Childs of Pakistani parents (even if holding only U.S. nationality)
- A spouse of a Pakistani citizen (in special approved cases)
- Former Pakistani nationals with verifiable documentation
You do not need to be a permanent resident of the United States. Even temporary residents, short-term visitors, students, interns, and workers can apply from within the USA.
Important Note
Your eligibility improves significantly if you can provide at least one parent’s Pakistani documentation.
Required Documents to Apply for NICOP in USA
Your document requirements vary slightly depending on your category. We prepared a clear list for each applicant type.
Required Documents for Adult Applicants
- Pakistani passport (valid or expired)
- CNIC or old NIC (if available)
- U.S. Passport, U.S. Visa, or Green Card
- U.S. residential proof (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
Required Documents for Children Born in the USA
- U.S. Birth Certificate
- NICOP or CNIC of parents
- Parents’ Pakistani passports
- Registered marriage certificate (Nikkah Nama or NADRA marriage certificate)
Required Documents for Married Applicants
- Valid marriage certificate
- NICOP or CNIC details of spouse
- Pakistani passport of spouse (recommended)
Document Checklist Table
| Applicant Category | Required Identity Documents | Supporting Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | Pakistani Passport, CNIC/NICOP | U.S. ID, Address Proof |
| Children Born in USA | Birth Certificate | Parents’ IDs, Marriage Certificate |
| Married Applicants | Marriage Certificate | Spouse’s NICOP/CNIC |
| Dual Nationals | U.S. Passport | Pakistani Identity Proof |
Important Advice:
Always upload clear, uncropped, well-lit documents. Poor scans cause most delays and rejections.
How to Apply for NICOP in USA Using the Pak-Identity App?
The Pak-Identity Apps by NADRA are the most convenient ways to apply for NICOP in USA. You can complete the entire application online without visiting a consulate unless biometrics are required.
Below is the fully expanded step-by-step method:
Step 1: Create Your Pak-Identity Account
- Visit the official Pak-Identity App.
- Register using your email address.
- Set up your password and verify the account.
This account allows you to apply, track, update, and renew your NICOP.
Step 2: Provide Your Personal Information
Enter your details exactly as they appear on official documents.
Information includes:
- Full name
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Nationality
- U.S. residential address
- Contact email and mobile number
Tip: Ensure spelling consistency across all documents.
Step 3: Enter Family Details
Provide authentic information about your family members.
You must add:
- Father’s full name and CNIC number
- Mother’s full name and CNIC number
- Spouse details (if applicable)
Incorrect family data is one of the most common causes of application rejection.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned or photographed copies of:
- Pakistani passport
- U.S. passport/visa/Green Card
- Birth certificate (if relevant)
- Marriage certificate (if relevant)
Use JPG or PDF format for best results.
Step 5: Submit Photograph and Biometrics
You must upload:
- A recent passport-style photograph with a white background
- Digital fingerprints (only if your device supports capture)
If your device does not support fingerprint capture, your biometrics will be taken during your consulate appointment.
Step 6: Pay the NICOP Fee Online
You can pay using:
- Debit card
- Credit card
- NADRA’s approved online payment channels
Once payment is successful, you receive a tracking ID automatically.
How to Book a NADRA Appointment for NICOP in USA?
All NICOP appointments in the USA are arranged through the same Pak-Identity portal. No third-party website is authorized.
Appointment Booking Steps
- Log in to your Pak-Identity account.
- Open the “Appointments” section.
- Select the country as the United States.
- Choose the nearest NADRA center:
- New York
- Washington DC
- Houston
- Chicago
- Los Angeles
- Pick your preferred date and time.
- Confirm the appointment details.
You receive an email with:
- Appointment ID
- Required documents list
- Biometric instructions
- Location details
Always carry a printed or digital copy on appointment day.
List of Pakistani Consulates in the USA Offering NICOP Services
NICOP services are available at five major Pakistani missions.
| City | Mission Type | Services Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Washington DC | Embassy | Full NADRA services |
| New York | Consulate | Biometric & NICOP processing |
| Chicago | Consulate | Fingerprints & card renewal |
| Houston | Consulate | New NICOP issuance |
| Los Angeles | Consulate | All biometric services |
Available services include:
- Biometric verification
- Photograph capture
- Signature collection
- NICOP processing and renewal
- Data modification services
Fee Structure for NICOP in USA
According to the latest public fee tables from NADRA / Pakistani consulates:
| Service / Processing Speed | Fee (USD) – Zone A (USA & similar) |
|---|---|
| Normal (Standard / 30-day) | US$ 39 |
| Urgent (Faster / ~12-day) | US$ 57 |
| Executive (Fastest / ~7-day) | US$ 75 |
These rates apply to new issuance, renewal, duplicate, or modification of a NICOP / Smart NICOP for overseas Pakistanis under Zone A.
Processing Times for NICOP in USA Applicants
| Processing Category | Delivery Timeline |
|---|---|
| Normal | 30–45 days |
| Urgent | 10–15 days |
| Executive | 3–7 days |
Executive service is best for travelers who need the card quickly.
How to Track Your NICOP Application Online in USA?
You can track your NICOP application anytime through the Pak-Identity App.
You only need:
- Tracking ID
- Registered email
You can monitor:
- Payment status
- Verification stage
- Printing progress
- Dispatch and delivery updates
NICOP Benefits for Dual Nationals in the USA
Dual nationals benefit significantly from having a NICOP.
Major advantages include:
- Visa-free access to Pakistan
- Quicker immigration at airports
- Full rights to own, sell, or transfer property
- Freedom to operate Pakistani bank accounts
- Eligibility for investment and business projects
- Simplified identity verification during legal procedures
NICOP gives dual nationals a reliable and long-term connection to Pakistan.
NICOP Delivery Method and Courier Details
NADRA dispatches NICOP cards directly to your U.S. home address through international courier services.
Delivery Stages:
- Card printing
- Quality check
- International dispatch
- U.S. courier handover
- Final delivery
Delivery updates appear in your Pak-Identity portal and email notifications.
NICOP vs POC vs CNIC – Detailed Comparison
| Feature | NICOP | POC | CNIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| For Overseas Pakistanis | ✔ | ✔ (foreign spouse) | ✘ |
| For Pakistan residents | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Visa-free entry to Pakistan | ✔ | ✔ | N/A |
| For foreign nationals | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Validity | 10 years | 5 years | 10 years |
NICOP Requirements for Students, Workers, and Families in the USA
Students
NICOP helps with inheritance claims, family registration, and educational documentation.
Workers
Workers need NICOP for business accounts, remittance operations, and investment procedures.
Families
Families rely on NICOP for registering newborns, managing property, and completing legal matters in Pakistan.
NICOP for Pakistanis Born in the USA
If you were born in the U.S. but have at least one Pakistani parent, you qualify for NICOP.
Required Documents
- U.S. birth certificate
- Parent’s NICOP/CNIC
- Parent’s Pakistani passport
NICOP is issued even to newborn babies.
Biometric Verification Process Explained
Biometrics include:
- Fingerprints
- Face photograph
- Digital signature
Biometrics are captured at:
- Pakistani consulates
- NADRA mobile registration units (if available)
Digital biometrics are acceptable only when supported devices are used.
What Happens If Your NICOP Application Is Rejected?
Rejections usually occur due to technical mistakes.
Steps to fix:
- Review the rejection reason
- Upload corrected documents
- Reapply through Pak-Identity
- Contact NADRA support if needed
Most rejections are avoidable with accurate documents.
How to Correct Mistakes in Your NICOP in USA?
You can request updates for:
- Name corrections
- Date of birth changes
- Address modifications
- Family data updates
- Spelling errors
All correction requests are processed through the Pak-Identity portal.
Advanced Tips to Avoid Delays and Rejections
- Match your name spelling with your passports.
- Ensure digital photos follow NADRA’s guidelines.
- Use high-quality scans with readable edges.
- Add accurate parent CNIC numbers.
- Avoid abbreviations in U.S. addresses.
- Double-check your marital status and spouse information.
- Upload documents in portrait mode for best clarity.
Following these tips dramatically reduces delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apply without a Pakistani passport?
Yes, as long as you can prove Pakistani origin through parents’ documentation.
2. What is NICOP validity for adults?
NICOP is valid for 10 years.
3. Can I renew NICOP online?
Yes, renewal is fully online through the Pak-Identity portal.
4. Is NICOP better than a visa?
Yes, NICOP grants unlimited visa-free entry.
5. Can children apply for NICOP in the U.S.?
Yes, even infants are eligible.
Final Thoughts
NICOP is more than an identity card. It is your legal gateway to Pakistan. Whether you need to travel, buy property, open a bank account, or maintain strong ties with Pakistan, this card secures your rights and ensures smooth processing across all government systems.
By following this comprehensive guide, collecting the right documents, and using the Pak-Identity portal correctly, you can complete your NICOP application from the USA quickly and confidently. Apply early, avoid common mistakes, and take advantage of the improved 2025 NADRA systems designed for overseas Pakistanis.
With the right preparation, your NICOP will arrive at your doorstep without delays or complications.
Also read: How to Book NADRA Online Appointment in USA?