NADRA Outlines Complete CNIC Name Change Procedure and Requirements

The National Database and Registration Authority detailed the steps and paperwork required for citizens updating their names on a CNIC.

NationPulse Desk

Oct 19, 2026 · 2:24 PM 1 min read

Key takeaways

NADRA explained the exact procedure for changing a name on a Computerized National Identity Card.

Applicants must provide an application with the updated name and a verified birth certificate CRMS number.

Name changes due to religion require a certificate from a Dar-ul-Ifta.

Citizens can change their CNIC name only once in a lifetime, except for women after marriage.

Photocopies of documents are not needed if relevant document numbers are provided.

The National Database and Registration Authority detailed the steps required to update a name on a Computerized National Identity Card, specifying what paperwork and details citizens need to supply.

People must present a request containing the new name alongside the CRMS number from a verified computerized birth certificate originating from a union council, municipal committee, or cantonment board.

According to the authority, individuals altering their names because of a religion change must additionally supply a certificate from a Dar-ul-Ifta. Officials noted that residents can only update their CNIC names one time overall, though women changing their names following marriage are exempt from this limit.

Officials added that individuals do not need physical photocopies of their paperwork. Citizens must instead supply the appropriate document numbers originating from the agency or the relevant union council.

The agency released these instructions so residents grasp the necessary conditions and experience a smoother update procedure.

Questions and answers

How many times can you change your name on a CNIC?

Citizens can change the name on their CNIC only once in their lifetime, except for women who wish to change their names after marriage.

Do I need to bring photocopies of documents to NADRA?

Applicants do not need to bring photocopies of supporting documents and should instead provide the relevant document numbers issued by NADRA or the concerned union council.