Applying For Nicop: A Guide For Australians

The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is issued to Pakistani citizens living outside of Pakistan, including those who have migrated and those born abroad to Pakistani parents. The Pakistani government has established an online application system for NICOP, which offers simplified processing and requires a valid photo. The fee for NICOP applications in Australia (classified as Zone A) depends on the processing time: USD 39 for 31 days, USD 57 for 23 days, and USD 75 for 7 days. Applicants must provide proof of Pakistani identity, such as a detailed birth certificate or a Pakistani passport.

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Eligibility criteria for NICOP

The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is an official registration document for eligible Pakistani citizens living abroad. It is issued with a validity of 10 years and is interchangeable with the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) available to residents in Pakistan. NICOP serves as a substitute for CNIC both within and outside Pakistan.

To be eligible for a NICOP, you must be a Pakistani citizen residing abroad. NICOP is issued to citizens of Pakistan who are also nationals of countries with dual nationality arrangements with Pakistan. Foreign citizens of Pakistani origin may apply for this card. This includes those who may have had their Pakistani nationality annulled in the past or have parents who have previously held Pakistani nationality.

The NICOP application process requires several documents to be submitted, including proof of Pakistani identity. This can be in the form of a detailed birth certificate with the names of both parents or a Pakistani passport. If married, proof of marriage is also required. Additionally, proof of identity related to migration status is necessary. This may include a foreign passport or resident card.

The application photo must meet specific requirements, including showing the applicant's natural skin and eye colours. The photo will be used for identification verification by consular officers. Applicants must also provide details such as fingerprints and, in some cases, an attester or verifier.

Required documents

To apply for a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) in Australia, you will need to submit several documents as part of the application process. Here is a detailed list of the required documents:

Firstly, as proof of your Pakistani identity, you may provide either a detailed birth certificate that includes both of your parents' names or a Pakistani passport. If you were born outside of Pakistan, you may still be eligible for a NICOP if you have Pakistani parents or a spouse who is a Pakistani citizen. In such cases, you will need to provide proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate, and your spouse's or parents' Pakistani citizenship or NICOP/CNIC number.

Secondly, you will need to provide proof of your migration status or foreign residency. This can include a foreign passport or resident card. Additionally, if you are married, you may be required to provide proof of marriage.

Thirdly, your application photo must meet specific requirements. It should be a recent, clear, and colour photograph with a white background. The photo must show your full face, with your eyes open and clearly visible. It must also display your natural skin and eye colours.

Finally, you will need to fill out the application form and pay the corresponding fee, which varies depending on the processing time and the country zone. For Zone A countries, which include Australia, the fees are USD 39 for 31 days, USD 57 for 23 days, and USD 75 for 7 days.

Online application process

The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is issued to Pakistani citizens who also hold nationality in countries with dual nationality arrangements with Pakistan. NICOP provides its holders with the right to enter Pakistan without a visa. Foreign citizens of Pakistani origin may also apply for this card.

• Visit the official website of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA): https://www.nadra.gov.pk.
• Look for the "Online Pakistan Identity Service" or "Online NICOP Application" section on the website.
• Create an account by providing your basic information, such as your name, email address, and creating a password.
• Log in to your account and select the option to apply for a NICOP.
• Carefully fill out the online application form with your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, address in Australia, and information about your Pakistani origin or citizenship.
• Upload all the required documents, including proof of your Pakistani identity or citizenship. This may include a detailed birth certificate showing both parents' names, a Pakistani passport, or proof of your relationship with a parent, grandparent, or spouse who is a Pakistani citizen.
• Provide a recent digital photograph that meets the specified requirements, such as showing your natural skin and eye colours.
• Pay the applicable fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee for Zone A countries, which includes Australia, is USD 39 for 31 days processing, USD 57 for 23 days, and USD 75 for 7 days.
• Submit your application and note down the tracking number or reference code for future reference.

Please note that the above process is a general guide, and it is always recommended to refer to the official NADRA website or contact the Pakistani embassy or consulate in Australia for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the NICOP application process.

Photo requirements

The submission of a photograph is a crucial part of the NICOP application process, and it must adhere to specific requirements. These standards are in place to improve the photo's readability and compatibility with biometric identification systems, ensuring the document's security. Here are the detailed photo requirements for a NICOP application:

Background: The photo must be taken against a simple white or off-white background. No other colours are permitted.

Facial Expression: A neutral expression is required. No smiling, frowning, or other facial expressions that could be considered unsuitable.

Clothing: Ensure your regular clothes do not violate any religious sentiments.

Face and Eyes: Your face must be entirely visible, from forehead to chin. Reflective glasses are not allowed, as they obscure the eyes, which must be clearly visible. The photo must show your natural skin and eye colours.

Size and Angle: The photo must be a perfect match to the provided measurements. The applicant should face the camera straight on. Do not tilt your head up, down, or to the side.

Lighting: Although not explicitly mentioned, ensure the lighting is adequate and clear, without harsh shadows that might obscure any features.

Overall Quality: The photo must correctly and accurately represent the applicant. Any violation of these requirements may cause delays or rejections.

Processing fees and time

The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is a card issued to Pakistani citizens who are also nationals of countries with dual nationality agreements with Pakistan. The fee for applying for a NICOP depends on which document you need, how quickly you need your application processed, and your country of nationality. There are two zones of countries when it comes to NICOP applications: Zone A includes countries in the Americas, Australia, the Pacific Islands, Europe, and the UK, while Zone B includes countries in Asia and Africa. The fee for Zone A countries is USD 39 for 31 days, USD 57 for 23 days, and USD 75 for 7 days. For Zone B countries, the fees are USD 20 for 31 days, USD 30 for 23 days, and USD 40 for 7 days. The application fee depends on the processing time and must be paid by credit or debit card.

In addition to the application fee, there may be additional charges. For example, an additional £10 charge will apply to all NICOP/POC applications submitted during NADRA Mobile Registration Team visits. The delivery time for manual (form-based) applications or applications received via MRTs is approximately six to eight weeks. It's important to note that the processing time may vary depending on whether you apply online or in person at a NADRA Registration Center (NRC).

If you are applying for a NICOP for the first time, you will need to submit your application form and supporting documents to the nearest NRC. A printed version of your application form will be provided, which you must then submit to the NRC after getting it attested by a gazetted officer. Alternatively, if any of your blood relatives (parents, siblings, or children) are available at the time of application, their biometrics can be captured, and attestation of the form is not required.

The processing time for a NICOP application is not explicitly stated, but it may depend on the complexity of the application and the specific requirements of the NRC. However, the Pakistan High Commission in London estimates a processing time of six to eight weeks for manual applications or applications received via MRTs.

Frequently asked questions