How to Change Your Name with NADRA? New Update
How to Change Your Name with NADRA: In Pakistan, the name printed on a Computerised National Identity Card holds major legal and administrative value. It connects us to banking, education, employment, property ownership, immigration, and government records. Therefore, any spelling error, name change after marriage, or legal update must be corrected without delay. Even a small mistake can trigger verification problems. As a result, applications get rejected. Consequently, services stop. However, when the correct process is followed, the update becomes smooth and reliable.
Fortunately, the National Database and Registration Authority provides a defined system for changing or correcting a name on a CNIC. Yet, many people still feel confused about the same process. Therefore, in this guide, we explain how to change your Name with NADRA step by step. We clarify required documents, official fees, biometric steps, and processing timelines. Moreover, we cover special situations such as name changes after marriage, legal name changes, and religious conversions. With our guidance, we learn how to change your name with NADRA, achieve accuracy, speed, and full legal compliance.
Why You Might Need to Change Your CNIC Name
In many cases, a name change on your NADRA-issued CNIC becomes necessary. The following are common reasons:
- Spelling mistakes or clerical errors in your recorded name.
- Surname change after marriage (especially for women).
- Official name change due to legal or personal reasons.
- Change after religious conversion.
- Inconsistency between CNIC name and other legal documents (passport, birth certificate, educational records).
Inaccurate CNIC names often lead to verification issues. Consequently, bank accounts, passport applications, SIM registrations, and official records may get rejected. Therefore, updating your name ensures smooth access to services and official verification.
Who Can Apply and What Types of Name Changes Are Allowed
You can request a name change (or correction) on your CNIC under any of these conditions:
- Minor spelling error or typographical mistake.
- Surname change after marriage or divorce.
- Legal name change accepted through affidavit or court order.
- Religious conversion requiring name update.
- Correction to match other official documentation like birth or educational certificates.
NADRA supports both minor corrections (spelling, order) and major name changes (surname change, legal name change, conversion) — though major changes often need legal documentation or affidavit.
Required Documents For Name Change
Which documents you need depends on the reason for your change. Below is a detailed table summarizing requirements for different scenarios:
| Situation / Reason | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Spelling correction or name consistency | Original CNIC + copy; Birth certificate or educational certificate showing correct name. |
| Name change after marriage | Nikah-Nama / Marriage Certificate (original + copy). |
| Legal name change (not marriage) | Court-issued affidavit or court order; sometimes newspaper advertisement + CNIC copy of father or guardian (if needed). |
| Religious conversion | Certificate from relevant religious authority (e.g. Dar-ul-Ifta); affidavit if required. |
| Orphan / Unknown parent or guardian changes | Court-issued guardian certificate + supporting identity documents. |
Important: Always bring both original documents and clear photocopies. NADRA requires originals for verification and copies for record-keeping.
How to Change Your Name with NADRA Centre
Although limited online options exist, major CNIC name changes still require personal visit to a NADRA centre.
Step 1: Locate Nearest NADRA Registration Centre (NRC)
Use NADRA’s official website or directory to find the nearest NRC in your area. Arrive early to reduce wait times.
Step 2: Collect Token at the Reception
At the centre, request a token for “CNIC Name Correction / Name Change.” Wait for your number to be called.
Step 3: Biometric Verification & Photograph Capture
When called, NADRA staff will:
- Capture your photograph.
- Record fingerprints and digital signature.
- Verify your identity against old CNIC.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
Submit originals and photocopies of documents relevant to your name change reason (see the table above).
Step 5: Verify Details on the Printed Form
You will receive a printed form showing old and new name details. Review it carefully. Confirm spellings, father’s name, and other critical fields. Any mistake here will lead to delays or rejection.
Step 6: Pay the Applicable Fee
Choose the processing speed (Normal / Urgent / Executive) and pay accordingly. After payment, you receive a receipt with a tracking number.
Step 7: Application Processing and Approval
NADRA reviews the application. In case of major name changes, they might ask additional questions (family history, reason for change, reference verification).
Step 8: Receive SMS Notification and Collect Updated CNIC
Once approved, NADRA sends an SMS. Collect your updated CNIC from the same centre. Always bring original receipt and supporting documents.
How to Change Your Name with NADRA via Pak Identity App
NADRA has expanded digital services recently. Minor corrections may be processed via the official online portal (or Pak-ID portal), though complete name changes often still require in-person verification.
Online Change Steps (for Eligible Cases)
- Visit the Pak Identity App
- Log in / Register with your CNIC and mobile number.
- Select “Modify ID Card” → Choose “Name Correction / Name Change.”
- Fill in new name details carefully.
- Upload scans of required documents (CNIC, birth certificate, affidavit, etc.).
- Pay fee via online payment gateway.
- Submit application and keep tracking receipt.
- If biometric verification is required, visit a NADRA centre when prompted.
- Upon approval, receive updated CNIC — either via courier or collect at centre, based on your selected mode.
⚠️ Note: For major name changes (marriage, legal change, religious conversion), online alone may not suffice. NADRA may require personal appearance for verification.
Fee Structure & Processing Times
As per the latest 2025 schedule, fees and timelines are as follows (for normal CNIC and Smart CNIC modifications):
| Service Type | Fee (PKR) | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 750 | ~ 30 working days |
| Urgent | 1,500 | ~ 15 working days |
| Executive | 2,500 | ~ 7 working days (fastest) |
For minor corrections (spelling only) on Smart CNIC, some sources list different fees (e.g. 750 PKR normal).
Processing times depend on application volume, document completeness, and biometric verification success. Always allow a buffer of a few extra days especially during peak periods.
Comparing Scenarios: Minor Correction vs Major Name Change
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you understand which route fits your case.
| Aspect | Minor Spelling / Typo Correction | Major Name Change (Marriage / Legal / Conversion) |
|---|---|---|
| Documents required | CNIC, birth certificate or matric certificate or B-Form | CNIC, court affidavit or marriage certificate or religious conversion certificate |
| Verification required | Simple biometric verification & form review | Detailed verification + possible additional checks or references |
| Fee (Normal) | ~ 750–2500 PKR | ~ 750–2500 PKR (same tier) |
| Processing time (Normal) | ~ 20–30 working days | ~ 30 working days (can be longer if review needed) |
| Likelihood of delay | Low if documents correct | Higher; additional verification may cause delays |
We recommend applying as early as possible if your case requires a major name change.
Practical Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
To prevent rejection, delays, or extra friction — follow these practical tips:
- Double-check spelled names carefully on all documents before submission. Mistakes often occur during manual data entry.
- Ensure consistency across documents. Your old CNIC, birth certificate, and new name request must match or clearly outline reason for change.
- Bring both originals and clear photocopies. Originals will be returned to you, but NADRA needs copies for records.
- Keep biometric data clean. Remove mehndi, nail polish, or anything that obscures fingerprints before visiting.
- Retain your receipt/tracking number. You’ll need it for status tracking or card collection.
- Use Executive service only if urgent. If time is not critical, normal service is cost-effective.
- Avoid unofficial agents or third-party services. Always use the official NADRA centre or portal to avoid scams.
- If using online application, follow instructions carefully. Upload clear scans; ensure file size and format comply.
- Check CNIC details thoroughly before approving the form printout. Once submitted, changes are harder to revert.
How to Change Your Name with NADRA (Special Cases)
Name Change After Marriage (Women’s Surname Change)
- Provide original Nikah-Nama / valid marriage certificate.
- Spouse’s CNIC copy might be required if requested.
- Biometric verification remains mandatory.
Legal Name Change (Court Order / Affidavit)
- Submit court-issued name-change order or notarized affidavit.
- Attach identity proof (old CNIC), and sometimes a newspaper advertisement (where required).
Name Change Post Religious Conversion
- Provide conversion certificate from an authorized religious institution (e.g. Dar-ul-Ifta).
- Also include CNIC and copies, old name record, and any supporting documents.
Name Correction for Minors / Dependents / Orphans
- Submit guardian certificate or court-issued guardianship proof if parents are unavailable.
- Provide B-Form / birth certificate and guardian’s CNIC.
- Biometric verification for child may be needed depending on age.
Tracking Your Application & Collecting Updated CNIC
Once application is submitted:
- Note the tracking number on your receipt.
- You can track status via NADRA’s official website or by SMS (to 8400) using your CNIC/tracking number.
- On approval, NADRA sends an SMS notification.
- Visit the same NRC for collection, or opt for courier delivery (if available in your area).
- Bring original receipt and CNIC for verification during collection.
FAQs (How to Change Your Name with NADRA?)
Q: Can I change my CNIC name online?
A: Yes — but only minor corrections (spelling, typo, minor updates) may be accepted online. Major changes like surname change, legal name change, or conversion require in-person verification.
Q: Do I need a court order for name change?
A: Only for major name changes not related to marriage or minor corrections. Spelling fixes or marriage-based surname changes do not require a court order.
Q: How long does the name change procedure take?
A: It depends on the service level: Normal ~30 working days, Urgent ~15 working days, Executive ~7 working days.
Q: What is the cost for name change on Smart CNIC in 2025?
A: For Smart CNIC modification, standard fees are: ~ 750 PKR (normal), ~ 1,500 PKR (urgent), ~ 2,500 PKR (executive).
Q: Can I apply for name change on behalf of someone else?
A: No. The applicant must appear in person for biometric verification.
Conclusion (How to Change Your Name with NADRA?)
How to Change Your Name with NADRA: Updating your name on CNIC is crucial for official verifications and legal matters. Whether you handle minor spelling corrections or full name changes after marriage or legal conversion — following the correct procedure ensures smooth processing.
By carefully preparing required documents, choosing the right service speed, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a hassle-free experience with NADRA. Accurate identity details save time, prevent future complications, and guarantee valid access to services.
Take action today. Secure your identity for tomorrow.
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