Understanding NADRA’s NICOP Services for Overseas Pakistanis

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in Pakistan is responsible for issuing the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) to Pakistanis living abroad, including those in Bahrain. NICOP is essential for Pakistani citizens who wish to travel back to Pakistan without the hassle of a visa and is particularly useful for individuals with dual nationality.

Zone-Based Fee Structure

NADRA has divided countries into two zones, Zone A and Zone B, to streamline the fee structure for NICOP. The country categorization impacts the cost of the NICOP application, with each zone having specific fees for standard, urgent, and executive categories. Canada, for instance, falls under Zone A, while Bahrain’s placement may impact the cost accordingly.

Fees for NICOP Services

For those in Bahrain, the standard NICOP fee is typically around $20 for a new Smart NICOP. Those who need the card urgently can opt for the urgent NICOP service at $30, while the executive NICOP service, ideal for quicker processing, costs $40.

Applying for NICOP

To apply for NICOP, Pakistani nationals must have a passport number, especially if applying for the first time. NADRA has made the application process user-friendly with options to apply through their official website or mobile app, allowing for a faster and more accessible experience.

NICOP Costs Within Pakistan

If applied for in Pakistan, the standard NICOP fee is Rs5,620 as of October 2024. An urgent application raises the fee to Rs8,440, and those opting for the executive service will pay Rs11,250 for faster processing.

Why NICOP Is Essential for Overseas Pakistanis

For Pakistanis in Bahrain and other countries, NICOP provides peace of mind and ease of travel to Pakistan without visa restrictions. It’s a vital document, particularly for those maintaining dual nationality, and offers a reliable form of identification for Pakistanis living abroad.