The Federal Cabinet has approved important amendments to the National Identity Card Rules 2002 on June 22, 2025, aimed at enhancing the security and transparency of the national identity system. These changes, approved by Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah, include several key points.

Renewed identity documents will now include the name and parents’ name in both Urdu and English, along with a QR code for security and verification. This measure aims to protect the cards from forgery and fraud.

The preparation and delivery time for new cards has been reduced from 30 days to 15 days, expediting the process for applicants. There has been no change in the fee structure for the cards, and first-time applicants will receive their cards free of charge.

Under a significant change, individuals holding fake or illegally obtained cards will be allowed to voluntarily surrender these documents and avoid legal action. Those wishing to do so can approach their respective district or zonal office and submit an affidavit relinquishing the fake identity documents, including ID cards or B-Forms. This provides a path to compliance for those who have improperly obtained documents.