On April 9, 2026, the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) issued a warning concerning the renewal of expired Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) in Pakistan. The authority emphasized the potential suspension of mobile services for over 8.1 million SIMs linked to expired CNICs.
Nadra highlighted that essential services, including banking and government subsidies, could be affected if citizens fail to renew their identity documents. The authority revealed that approximately 4.5 million identity cards are overdue for renewal, with over 223,000 expired for more than a decade.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reiterated the requirement for valid CNICs for mobile service continuity. Nadra has already sent reminders to citizens, particularly targeting parents whose children have reached adulthood without obtaining their first CNIC.
Historically, Nadra has refrained from imposing penalties for delayed renewals, considering public convenience. However, the authority indicated that additional fees might be enforced after June if renewal trends do not improve.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, April 10, 2026
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