Have you ever wondered what happens to a person’s National Identity Card (NIC), NIC Overseas Pakistanis Card (NICOP), Pakistan Origin Card (POC), or Children Registration Certificate (CRC) after they pass away? In Pakistan, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) issues a Cancellation Certificate (CC) to officially cancel these ID cards. This document helps prevent misuse and ensures these cards aren’t used for any fraudulent purposes.
But obtaining a Cancellation Certificate isn’t just limited to situations of death. There are several other scenarios where you might need one. Let’s explore these reasons together:
When a Loved One Passes Away:
This is the most common reason for applying for a Cancellation Certificate. If you’re a close family member of someone who has passed away (parent, sibling, child, or spouse), you can get their ID card cancelled by NADRA. This helps prevent any potential misuse of their identity.
CC for Giving Up Pakistani Citizenship:
Sometimes, people who become citizens of another country might need to give up their Pakistani citizenship, especially if their new country doesn’t allow dual nationality. In such cases, they can apply for a Cancellation Certificate to cancel their Pakistani ID card.
Cancellation Certificate Nationality Status:
Life can be unpredictable! If someone previously renounced their Pakistani citizenship but their new country now allows dual nationality, or they decide to reacquire Pakistani citizenship, they can apply for a Cancellation Certificate for their POC (Pakistan Origin Card).
Divorce and CC POC:
In a situation where a Pakistani spouse gets divorced from their foreign spouse who holds a POC, the Pakistani spouse can apply to have their ex-partner’s POC cancelled.
CC for Dealing with Duplicate ID Cards:
Mistakes happen! If someone accidentally ends up with two or more ID cards, they can apply for a Cancellation Certificate to cancel the extras and ensure they only have one valid ID.
Applying for a Cancellation Certificate: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the different reasons for needing a Cancellation Certificate, let’s explore the application process:
Applying in Person:
Visit Your Local NADRA Registration Center (NRC):
The first step is to find your nearest NADRA Registration Center. Once you’re there, you’ll be issued a token to help manage the queue.
Data Collection for CC:
When your turn comes, an NRC staff member will take your photograph, fingerprints, and signature for verification purposes.
Form Completion:
The staff will then enter your information and print out an application form for you to review. Make sure all the details are accurate before proceeding.
Attestation and Submission for CC:
Once you’ve reviewed the form and confirmed its accuracy, you’ll need to get it attested by a close relative (parent, sibling, child) or a gazetted officer. This is an official way of confirming your identity and the purpose of your application. Finally, submit the attested form back to the NRC staff member.
Online Application (For Deaths Only):
It’s important to note that NADRA also offers online cancellation for deaths of Pakistani citizens or former citizens. However, this option might not be available for all situations. We recommend checking the NADRA website for the latest information on eligibility and the online application process if this applies to your situation.
Processing Time and Important Notes
The processing time for a Cancellation Certificate can vary depending on the service you choose:
Normal Processing:
This is the standard option and takes approximately 31 days.
Urgent Processing:
if you need the certificate sooner, you can opt for urgent processing, which takes about 23 days.
Fast Track Processing:
In urgent cases, you can choose the fastest option – Fast Track Processing. This prioritizes your application at the NRC for immediate processing and takes only 9 days.
Here’s a crucial point to remember:
The processing time starts only after you submit the duly attested form. So, make sure you get the attestation done promptly to avoid any delays.
By following these steps and understanding the different scenarios, you can easily obtain a Cancellation Certificate if needed. Remember, this document plays a vital role in preventing misuse of someone’s identity after their death or in situations where their nationality status changes.