How to Apply for Pakistan Origin Card (POC) Online?

Pakistani nationals who plan to immigrate or move abroad to pursue their educational or career goals must apply for the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP). On the other hand, overseas Pakistanis and foreigners who want to frequently visit and work in the country should apply for the Pakistan Origin Card (POC) as it comes with many benefits.

In today’s world, you can easily apply for the Pakistan Origin Card (POC) online from anywhere, using desktop and also mobile platforms. Wondering how? We’ve got you covered. Here we are going to explain to you the entire POC application process in an orderly manner, so make sure to read this post till the end.

Pakistan Origin Card (POC) Benefits

The Pakistan Origin Card (POC) program offers eligible foreigners’ exclusive benefits to reconnect with their roots while ensuring strong integration with expatriates worldwide.

Multiple visa-free entries for Pakistan.
Indefinite stay in Pakistan with exemption from reporting to the local law enforcement authorities as well as any concerned foreigners’ registration offices.
POC holders can also purchase, sell, and dispose of movable and immovable property anywhere in Pakistan.
They also enjoy the privilege of opening and operating bank accounts in Pakistan.
Hassle-free immigration process to/from Pakistan for multiple destinations across the world.
A replacement of the National Identity Card as an identity proof within the country.
POC holders can also apply for a job in Pakistan during their stay.

Pakistan Origin Card (POC) Eligibility Criteria

NADRA issues the Pakistan Origin Card (POC) to individuals who, or whose parents, have renounced Pakistani citizenship and acquired the nationality of a country that does not have a dual nationality arrangement with Pakistan. The foreign spouse of a Pakistani citizen is also eligible. Moreover, here is the eligibility criteria for the Pakistan Origin Card (POC):

Individuals who were Pakistani nationals but have surrendered their Pakistani nationality are eligible.
Foreign nationals whose parents or grandparents were Pakistani nationals are eligible.
Foreign nationals who have a close relative (brother, sister, uncle, or aunt) who is or was a Pakistani national are eligible
Foreigners who have married a Pakistani or former Pakistani citizen are eligible.

Exceptions: Pakistan Origin Card is not issued to individuals who are:

Nationals of India, Israel, or Taiwan.
Citizens of a state or country not recognized by Pakistan.
Citizens or Nationals of an enemy country.

Required Documents for Pakistan Origin Card Application

Wondering what documents are required to apply for the Pakistan Origin Card (POC)? Here is the list of documents also listed on NADRA’s official website. Have a look!

Copy of CNIC/NICOP and the original card must be returned to the concerned NADRA offices.
Applicants should apply for cancellation of CNIC/CRC/NICOP prior to the application process of POC if they are above 21 years.
Applicants who are foreign nationals should attach an affidavit with their application.
Overseas Pakistanis who have dual nationalities are recommended to apply for NICOP or provide a renunciation certificate, which proves the cancellation of their Pakistani CNIC.
CNIC/POC/NICOP/Passport of your parents/grandparents who are Pakistani nationals and also relevant documents proving your relationship with them.
CNIC/POC/Passport of your siblings/relatives who are Pakistani nationals and also relevant documents proving your relationship with them.
Attested copy of marriage certificate as well as CNIC/NICOP/Passport of your spouse, who is a Pakistani national.

Dual Nationality Agreement Countries

In case you are a resident of any of the below-mentioned countries, you may not have to surrender your nationality while applying for POC since these countries have dual nationality arrangements with Pakistan:

Australia
Belgium
Canada
Egypt
France
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Jordan
Netherlands a.k.a Holland
New Zealand
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
United Kingdom
United State of America
Bahrain
Finland
Denmark
Germany (only for children of Pakistani nationals who are born in Germany)

Note: Children of Pakistani parents who acquired German nationality at birth may hold dual citizenship. Norwegian nationals who previously renounced Pakistani nationality can apply for a Smart NICOP after acquiring a resumption certificate.