NADRA Launches New Biometric Verification System

In January 2026, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in Pakistan introduced a major update to how identity verification works in the country. The new system uses facial recognition and enhanced biometrics in addition to fingerprints, making identity checks easier, faster, and more accurate for all citizens — especially for people whose fingerprints are hard to read.

What Is the New Biometric System?

Until now, NADRA mainly used fingerprint scans to verify a person’s identity for services like:

Bank account opening
SIM card registration
Passport applications
Vehicle ownership transfers

But many people, especially the elderly or those with medical conditions, had trouble when their fingerprint scans could not be read properly. To solve this, NADRA has introduced a new system where facial recognition is now officially recognised and used alongside fingerprints.

This change was made possible by amending the National Identity Card rules so that both facial and iris scans are legally accepted as valid biometrics, along with fingerprints.

How the New System Works (Step by Step)

The new biometric verification system is designed to help people easily confirm their identity when fingerprints fail. Here’s how it works:

Visit NADRA Centre: If your fingerprint verification fails at a bank, SIM shop, or government office, go to the nearest NADRA Registration Centre.
Facial Scan: NADRA staff will take a fresh facial photograph using a camera and match it with the photo already stored in the NADRA database.
Verification Match: If the facial recognition matches the records, the system verifies your identity successfully.
Certificate Issued: NADRA issues a biometric verification certificate with your name, CNIC number, father’s name, photo, a unique tracking ID, and a QR code. This certificate is valid for 7 days and can be used where identity verification is needed.

This certificate helps when you need identity checks at banks, telecom offices, passport offices, and other government or private services.

When It Starts & Fees

The facial recognition‑based verification system officially began on January 20, 2026 at all NADRA registration centres. Citizens can get their verification certificate by visiting any NADRA centre and paying a nominal fee (around Rs. 20).

Why This System Is Important

The new biometric system is important because:

Fewer problems with fingerprints: Elderly people, those with worn‑out fingerprints, or people with certain medical conditions often had trouble with fingerprint verification. Facial recognition helps them complete identity checks without delays.
Faster and easier service: Identity checks are now quicker and smoother for many services.
Better accuracy: Adding facial and iris recognition improves reliability and truthfulness in identity verification.
Wider use with future digital ID: In future, verification might also be available through the Pak‑ID mobile app and e‑Sahulat centres once the Digital ID project fully launches.

Who Benefits Most?

The new biometric verification system mainly helps:

Elderly citizens whose fingerprints have worn out over time.
People with medical conditions that affect fingerprints.
Anyone struggling with fingerprint verification at banks, mobile phone outlets, housing societies, passport offices, or other services.

Because facial recognition is contactless, it also helps avoid errors caused by poor or low‑quality fingerprint scanners.

Where You Can Use the Certificate

Once you have a biometric verification certificate from NADRA, you can use it for:

Bank account verification
SIM card registration & mobile services
Passport and visa services
Property and vehicle transfers
Government service centres that require identity verification

This makes the process smoother when the fingerprint method fails.

What Happens Next

NADRA has asked all government and private institutions to update their systems so they can accept facial recognition certificates. Future upgrades may allow you to:

Get biometric verification directly through the Pak‑ID mobile app
Use e‑Sahulat franchises for facial verification
Access more digital services without visiting an office

Institutions may need to upgrade cameras and software to fully integrate the new system.

Conclusion

The new NADRA biometric verification system in January 2026 marks a major improvement in how identity checks are done in Pakistan. By adding facial recognition and enhanced biometrics, NADRA has made it easier for citizens — especially the elderly and those with fingerprint problems — to complete verification for banks, SIM cards, passports, and many government or private services.

The system started on January 20, 2026, offers a short‑term certificate valid for 7 days, and can be obtained at any NADRA registration centre with a small fee. As technology expands, this service is expected to become even more integrated with Pakistan’s Digital ID platform and mobile services, making identity verification smoother and more accessible for everyone.