NADRA Launches Facial Recognition for Biometric Verification. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced facial recognition technology to make biometric verification easier for Pakistani citizens. This initiative comes as many people face difficulties due to fading fingerprints or low-quality fingerprint readers at banks, SIM card offices, housing societies, and other service points.
Why Facial Recognition Is Needed
Over time, fingerprints of citizens—especially the elderly or those with certain medical conditions—may become difficult to read.
Even though the State Bank of Pakistan and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority have recommended alternative verification methods, citizens still face challenges while accessing services that require fingerprint-based identification.
To resolve these issues, the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control issued directives to NADRA to introduce a more reliable verification system.
Legal Changes to Support Multi-Biometric Verification
Following the government’s directives, the Federal Government amended the National Identity Card Rules to expand the definition of biometrics.
- New biometric identifiers:
- Facial photographs
- Iris scans
- Fingerprints (existing)
This legal update allows NADRA to implement a multi-biometric verification system, ensuring that citizens can verify their identity even if fingerprints fail.
How NADRA New System Works
NADRA has introduced contactless fingerprint and facial recognition technology. This system is already available at:
- NADRA Registration Centres
- Pak ID mobile application
It is currently used for services such as:
- Transfer of Islamabad-registered vehicles
- Online passport applications
Soon, the system will also cover proof-of-life certificates for Federal Government pensioners, with services expanding in phases.
Facial Recognition Certificates: Step-by-Step
Starting 20 January 2026, citizens whose fingerprint verification fails can obtain a facial recognition-based biometric verification certificate at any NADRA Registration Centre for a nominal fee of Rs 20.
Process:
- Citizen visits a NADRA Registration Centre after fingerprint verification fails.
- A fresh photograph is taken and matched with NADRA’s records.
- Upon verification, NADRA issues a certificate containing:
- Citizen’s recent and record photographs
- CNIC number, name, father’s name
- Purpose of verification
- Unique tracking ID and QR code
Certificate validity: 7 days.
Citizens submit the certificate to the relevant institution, which then verifies it online through NADRA.
Future Plans for Easy Access
- e-Sahulat franchises: Facial recognition certificates will be available soon.
- Pak-ID application: After the formal launch of the Digital ID, all verification services will be accessible through the mobile app.
NADRA urges all regulators, public institutions, and private organizations to upgrade their hardware and software to support this service.
Phase 1: Update institutional software for integration of facial recognition certificates.
Phase 2: Install cameras at service counters or integrate cameras into KYC biometric machines.
Once fully implemented, citizens will be able to complete verification directly at service points without visiting NADRA centres.
NADRA Commitment to Innovation
With the launch of facial recognition-based verification, NADRA aims to:
- Eliminate difficulties caused by faded fingerprints
- Provide secure, fast, and contactless biometric services
- Strengthen safeguards against identity fraud and misuse
This initiative marks a significant step toward modernizing Pakistan’s identity verification system, ensuring convenience for all citizens.
Conclusion
NADRA’s facial recognition technology is set to transform biometric verification in Pakistan. Starting 20 January 2026, citizens can access secure and reliable verification even when fingerprints are unreadable. With integration into Pak-ID and e-Sahulat franchises, this system promises efficient, contactless, and fraud-proof services across the country.
