NADRA Introduces Facial Recognition Biometric
NADRA Introduces Facial Recognition Biometric Verification. In a major relief for Pakistani citizens, NADRA has introduced a new biometric verification facility based on facial recognition, ending long-standing problems faced by people whose fingerprints could not be verified. This initiative is especially beneficial for elderly citizens and individuals with medical conditions that affect fingerprint recognition.
The move marks a significant step toward modernizing identity verification in Pakistan and ensuring that no citizen is deprived of essential services due to biometric limitations.
Why NADRA Introduced Facial Recognition Verification
For years, thousands of citizens faced difficulties while accessing government and private services because their fingerprints failed to verify. This issue was common among senior citizens, laborers with worn fingerprints, and people with certain health conditions.
To address this problem permanently, NADRA expanded the definition of biometric verification by amending National Identity Card laws, allowing facial recognition to be used as an official verification method.
This decision was taken on the special instructions of the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister, ensuring that identity services become more inclusive and accessible.
Facial Recognition Facility Now Available
Under the new system, NADRA has officially launched facial recognition–based biometric verification through its Pak ID mobile application and NADRA registration centers.
Citizens whose fingerprints fail during verification will no longer face rejection. Instead, they can complete their verification using facial recognition technology, which accurately matches facial features with NADRA’s database.
This upgrade ensures smoother access to banking, SIM verification, government services, and other identity-based processes.
Biometric Verification Certificate from January 20
Starting January 20, NADRA centers across Pakistan will begin issuing biometric verification certificates based on facial recognition.
If a citizen’s fingerprints cannot be verified:
- They can visit the nearest NADRA Registration Center
- Facial recognition verification will be performed
- A biometric verification certificate will be issued for a small fee
This certificate provides official proof of identity verification and can be used wherever biometric confirmation is required.
Details Included in the Verification Certificate
The facial recognition biometric certificate will contain:
- Citizen’s photograph
- CNIC number
- Full name
- Father’s or husband’s name
- Unique tracking ID
- Secure QR code
This information ensures authenticity and makes the certificate easily verifiable by institutions.
Certificate Validity Period
The biometric verification certificate issued through facial recognition will be valid for 7 days. During this period, citizens can use it for required verification purposes without repeated biometric attempts.
This short validity period also helps maintain security and prevent misuse.
Role of Pak ID Mobile App
Currently, facial recognition verification is available at NADRA centers, but NADRA has confirmed that after the launch of the Digital ID, this facility will also be fully accessible through the Pak ID mobile application.
This will allow citizens to:
- Verify identity remotely
- Reduce visits to NADRA offices
- Save time and travel costs
- Access services more conveniently
The digital expansion reflects NADRA’s shift toward smarter, citizen-friendly services.
NADRA’s Readiness and Institutional Cooperation
According to NADRA officials, the authority is fully prepared to implement this new system nationwide. NADRA has also requested all government departments and private institutions to update their systems and accept facial recognition–based biometric verification.
This coordination is essential to ensure seamless adoption across banking, telecom, and public service sectors.
Complaint Mechanism After January 20
NADRA has clarified that after January 20, if any institution refuses to accept facial recognition biometric verification or claims the facility is unavailable, citizens can file complaints with the concerned department or organization.
This step ensures accountability and proper implementation of the new policy.
Why This Update Is a Major Relief
The introduction of facial recognition biometric verification:
- Solves fingerprint mismatch problems
- Supports elderly and medically affected citizens
- Reduces repeated biometric failures
- Improves access to essential services
- Strengthens Pakistan’s digital identity system
It is a major step toward inclusive governance and digital transformation.
Final Words
NADRA Introduces Facial Recognition Biometric Verification facility is a groundbreaking development that removes a major obstacle faced by thousands of citizens. With implementation starting from January 20, this system promises faster, fairer, and more reliable identity verification across Pakistan.
As Pakistan moves toward digital ID solutions, this initiative sets the foundation for a more accessible and technologically advanced identity system for all.