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Married women can now choose to display either their father’s or husband’s name on their CNIC.
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Birth registration is now mandatory for Form B (Child Registration Certificate), which will also have an expiry date.
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False information in ID documents will face strict penalties, but adding unregistered family members is now easier.
In a major step toward making Pakistan’s identity system more modern and citizen-friendly, the federal cabinet has approved important changes to the National Identity Card (NIC) Rules, 2002. These updates, proposed by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, aim to improve data accuracy, enhance security, and give citizens more control over how their identity is represented in official documents.
Married Women Now Have a Choice
One of the most impactful reforms is that married women can now choose whether they want their father’s or husband’s name to appear on their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). This change allows women to maintain their original identity even after marriage, or to adopt their husband’s name if they prefer. It respects women’s choices and addresses long-standing concerns about gender representation in legal records.
Previously, many married women were automatically required to change the name on their CNIC to that of their husband, which often caused confusion and difficulty in verifying earlier records. This new rule gives women the freedom to decide what best suits their identity and personal situation.
Changes to Child Registration Certificate (Form B)
Another important update relates to the Child Registration Certificate (CRC), also known as Form B. Moving forward, parents will need to register their child’s birth with the local Union Council before applying for a CRC. This step is intended to ensure that all records begin with verified birth information.
In addition, Form B will now come with an expiry date, which is a new requirement. Authorities believe this will help keep children’s identity information updated as they grow. However, the government clarified that existing CRCs will still be valid, unless they are required for purposes like passport applications or international travel.
Strict Action on False Information
To protect the integrity of the national identity database, the government has issued a clear warning: providing false information on identity documents will lead to serious legal consequences. This move is aimed at curbing identity fraud and ensuring that all records are reliable and truthful.
Easier Process to Add Unregistered Family Members
At the same time, the government has made it easier for families to add unregistered members to their family tree. Previously, this process involved complex paperwork and long delays. Now, families can apply for correction and verification through a more streamlined system, helping reduce red tape and improve access.
These reforms represent a big step toward a more secure, inclusive, and up-to-date identity system in Pakistan. By prioritizing citizen choice and improving data accuracy, the government hopes to bring national documentation in line with international best practices while meeting the evolving needs of the public.
