If you are searching lost CNIC what to do, the short answer is: protect your SIMs, then ask NADRA for a duplicate card. NADRA calls this a reprint. Its CNIC page says you can apply if your card has been lost, stolen, damaged or become unusable, and the only document it lists is your CNIC number. This guide explains each step, the official fees, and the scams to avoid, as of October 2026.
Lost CNIC what to do: 3 steps
- Check your SIMs. Send your 13 digit CNIC number, with no dashes, by SMS to 668, or check on PTA’s website cnic.sims.pk. Block any SIM you do not recognise with that network.
- Apply for a reprint. Use NADRA’s PakID app (Pak Identity in the app stores) or visit a NADRA Registration Centre. You need your CNIC number.
- Pay the official fee and track your card. Pay only after NADRA approves your application, keep the receipt, and track it with your tracking ID.
If you do not remember your CNIC number, look for it on a photocopy, your B-Form records, a bank or SIM document, or call NADRA on 1777.
Do you need a police report (FIR)?
Not for NADRA. In February 2026, a NADRA spokesperson said applicants do not need to file a police report (FIR) for CNIC renewal or the reissue of lost identity cards, ProPakistani reported. NADRA’s own Reprint / Lost page also lists only your CNIC number as the requirement.
A police record can still help you if the card was stolen, for example together with a wallet or phone. In Punjab, a Police Khidmat Markaz offers a loss report service. It is your choice, and NADRA does not ask for it.
Can you block a lost CNIC?
We found no CNIC blocking service on nadra.gov.pk. NADRA does not publish a way to “block” a card the way a bank blocks an ATM card. What protects you in practice is:
- getting a duplicate card quickly, so you have valid proof of identity again
- checking and blocking SIMs issued on your CNIC
- telling your bank if your card was stolen with your bank cards or cheque book
If you think someone is using your identity, call NADRA on 1777 and ask what it can do in your case.
How to get a duplicate CNIC in the PakID app
NADRA’s PakID FAQ says you can apply for a reprint if your card has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed. The steps follow the same pattern as other CNIC applications in the app:
- Install Pak Identity from the store links on nadra.gov.pk, then create your account or sign in.
- Verify your account with your fingerprints, or your face if the fingerprint check fails.
- Choose the reprint application for your CNIC and fill in your details, including your delivery address.
- Pick Normal, Urgent or Executive, then submit.
- Pay when NADRA asks you to. The processing time starts after you pay.
The card comes to your address by courier. NADRA’s CNIC page says you may be asked to visit a NADRA centre if needed. For the full app walkthrough, see our NADRA CNIC online guide.
How to get a duplicate CNIC at a NADRA centre
NADRA lists these steps at a NADRA Registration Centre:
- Take a Queue Matic token and wait for the one window counter.
- Give your photograph and fingerprints.
- Your data is entered and reviewed, followed by a short interview and approval by the officer in charge.
- Pay the fee.
- Collect your card when the processing time for your category ends.
In February 2026, NADRA said lost card reissue was also available at more than 2,000 e-franchise centres, where you give your CNIC number and your photo and fingerprints, ProPakistani reported. You do not need a smartphone or internet for this. Use Find NADRA Centre on nadra.gov.pk to find the nearest office.
Duplicate CNIC fee
As of October 2026, NADRA’s fee structure page lists these fees and timelines for a duplicate card:
| Card | Normal | Urgent | Executive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart NIC duplicate | Rs 750, 31 days | Rs 1,500, 23 days | Rs 2,500, 9 days |
| Standard CNIC duplicate | Rs 400, 15 days | Rs 1,150, 12 days | Rs 2,150, 6 days |
The same page lists a delivery charge of Rs 165 for ID cards delivered within Pakistan. Fees can change, so check the fee page before you pay. You can pay in the app by card, Raast, Easypaisa, JazzCash or at an e-Sahulat outlet with your tracking ID. Our NADRA tracking ID check guide shows how to follow your application until the card arrives.
If you live abroad and lost a NICOP, NADRA has a separate Reprint / Lost category for it. See NICOP apply online.
Protect your SIMs
A lost card is most often misused for a SIM. Check yours as soon as you can:
- Send your CNIC to 668, or use cnic.sims.pk.
- If a SIM you do not know is listed, ask that network to block it at a franchise or customer service centre.
- If the network does not act, contact PTA on 0800-55055.
Our CNIC SIM check guide explains the reply and how to return old SIMs.
Banks, BISP and other services
- Bank accounts: if your card was stolen with your wallet, call your bank to block your ATM card and ask whether it needs your new CNIC later.
- BISP and welfare payments: BISP payments are withdrawn with your CNIC and fingerprints at a partner bank agent, so apply for the reprint early. If a payment is stuck, see BISP payment not received.
- Your new card: keep a photocopy of the front and back at home, so your number is easy to find next time.
Fraud warnings
- No agent can speed up your duplicate card. In May 2026, NADRA said it has no authorised consultants, agents or dealers for identity documents, ProPakistani reported.
- Use only nadra.gov.pk and the PakID app. NADRA says any other website is not an official NADRA site.
- Do not post a photo of your CNIC on social media or send it to unknown WhatsApp numbers.
- Never share an OTP, PIN or password, even with a caller who says they are from NADRA, a bank or BISP.
- Report anyone who asks for extra money on complaints.nadra.gov.pk or the Pakistan Citizen’s Portal.
Contact NADRA
- Helpline: 1777 from a mobile, or 051-111-786-100
- Complaints: complaints.nadra.gov.pk
- Website: nadra.gov.pk
GoPunjab is an independent website. We are not NADRA or PTA, we cannot reissue a CNIC or block a SIM, and we never ask for your CNIC. Always finish on the official app or at a NADRA centre.