NADRA ID Card Update: How to Add or Change Your Picture Online

Keeping your ID card updated is important, especially when your picture no longer matches your current look. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in Pakistan now makes it simple to update or change your photo online without visiting an office.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to update your NADRA ID card photo step-by-step, what documents you’ll need, and how much it costs.

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Why You Might Need to Update Your NADRA ID Card Photo

There are many reasons you may want to change your ID card picture:

Reason	Details
Old photo doesn’t match	Your appearance has changed over time.
Poor photo quality	Blurry or unclear image on your card.
Professional use	You want a formal, better-looking picture.
Lost or damaged card	Reissuing gives you a chance to update your photo.

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How to Add or Change Your Picture on NADRA ID Card Online

You can change your NADRA ID card picture through the NADRA Online ID Card System (Pak-Identity). Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the NADRA Online Portal

Go to the official NADRA website: https://id.nadra.gov.pk

Step 2: Create or Log In to Your Account

If you already have an account, just log in.
New users can click on “Create a New Account” and fill in their details such as email, CNIC number, and password.

Step 3: Start a New Application

After logging in:

• Click “Apply Now”
• Select “Modify ID Card”
• Choose the reason “Update Photo” or “Renew Card”

Step 4: Upload Your New Photo

You can upload a recent passport-size picture.
Make sure it meets NADRA’s requirements:

Photo Guidelines	Description
Background	Plain white or light blue
Face	Clearly visible, no shadows
Expression	Neutral (no smile or frown)
Headwear	Only allowed for religious reasons
File size	Up to 5 MB, JPEG format

Step 5: Review and Submit

Check all your details carefully and then submit your application.

Step 6: Pay the Fee Online

You can pay using:

• Credit/Debit Card
• Easypaisa
• JazzCash

After payment, NADRA will start processing your photo update request.

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NADRA ID Card Photo Update Fee

Card Type	Normal Fee	Urgent Fee	Executive Fee
Smart NIC	Rs. 750	Rs. 1,500	Rs. 2,500
Smart NICOP	USD 39	USD 57	USD 75

Fees may vary based on your card type and country (for overseas applicants).

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How Long Does It Take?

Service Type	Processing Time
Normal	10 – 15 working days
Urgent	5 – 7 working days
Executive	2 – 3 working days

You’ll receive an SMS notification once your card is ready. You can also track your application status online from your NADRA account.

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How to Collect Your Updated NADRA ID Card

Once the process is complete, you can:

• Receive it by courier (if selected during application), or
• Collect it from the nearest NADRA center with your original CNIC.

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Common Problems and Solutions

Issue	Solution
Photo rejected	Re-upload following NADRA photo rules
Payment failed	Try another method like JazzCash or debit card
Account not verified	Check your email for the verification link
Delay in processing	Track your application from your NADRA dashboard

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Final Thoughts

Updating your NADRA ID card picture online is now easy, quick, and stress-free. You don’t need to stand in long queues — everything can be done from home using your computer or phone.

Always make sure your photo is clear and recent, so your ID card reflects your current identity.

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FAQs

1. Can I change my NADRA photo without visiting the office?
Yes, you can update it online through the Pak-Identity portal.

2. What if my new picture is rejected?
You’ll get an email from NADRA. Re-upload a clear photo that follows their photo rules.

3. Can I use a selfie for NADRA ID?
No. NADRA requires a professional-style photo with a plain background.

4. How do I know if my new card is ready?
You’ll receive an SMS or email update once your card is printed and ready for collection.

5. Can overseas Pakistanis update their photo online?
Yes, overseas users can log in to the NADRA online portal and update their NICOP photo.