Over the past few years, there have been a number of changes in the registration process for the transgender community in Pakistan. Under the ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018’, a person recognized as transgender shall have a right to get registered as per self-perceived gender identity with all government departments including, but not limited to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
In this article, we will discuss the procedure of acquirement of CNIC for transgender persons in Pakistan.
Where to Obtain a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)?
Transgender persons can get their CNIC issued by any nearby NADRA Registration Center (NRC). As per the ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018’ and ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules 2020’, NADRA offices are bound to designate an officer who will support transgender person’s requests regarding issuing CNIC or changing their name and gender identity. So, if a transgender person is applying for CNIC for the first time or modifying their existing CNIC, there are designated desks at the NADRA Registration Center (NRC) for it.
What are the required documents?
Transgender persons are required to present the following documents as per NADRA rules:
In case parents or blood relatives are present
- Presence of applicant at NADRA Registration Center (NRC).
- Original or copy of CNIC of both parents/blood relatives.
- Presence of any one of parents/blood relatives for Biometric Verification.
If parents are not known/ the applicant is under the guardianship of a Guru
- Presence of applicant at NADRA Registration Center (NRC).
- Original or copy of CNIC of Guru.
- Biometric verification of Guru .
If a transgender person is an Orphan or System Independent
- Presence of applicant.
- Biometrics of 2 witnesses who are CNIC holders along with their affidavits.
- Attestation of CNIC Form.
- Any other documents, if available.
You can read the complete details of the required documents on NADRA’s website.
What Gender Identity Can Transgender Person Choose?
Under the provisions ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018’ and ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules 2020’, a transgender person can choose any self-perceived gender identity.
What are the CNIC Application Steps?
The process for making CNIC is as follows:
- Upon arrival at the NADRA registration center, you will be guided towards a separate counter where a designated officer for transgender people’s registration is available.
- The designated officer will process your application considering the documents presented.
- You will be assigned a gender identity of your choice.
- Your photograph will be taken, followed by your fingerprints and signatures.
- Your parents' or guru’s biometrics would be taken for verification.
- You will be given the printed version of your CNIC form to review the given information. You will be required to submit it after reviewing it.
What is the Process of Amending Existing CNIC for Transgender Person?
The ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018’ gives transgender persons the right to change or amend their name and gender on their CNIC, CRC, passport or driving license as per their perceived gender identity.
To change name and gender identity on CNIC, you can go to any NRC nearby, reach the special desk established for transgender persons, and request amendments in your NADRA data. If you are requesting change in your name and gender identity for second time, you will be required to submit an affidavit to NADRA, which clearly states the reasons for the change and willingness to continue with the changes unless circumstances change.
What is the Fee for CNIC Acquisition?
As per NADRA, first time registration for transgender persons is free of cost. You can also check the detailed list on NADRA’s website.
NADRA Helpline
If you have any questions regarding acquiring of a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), you can contact NADRA Helpline on the following numbers.
Landline: +92 51 111 786 100
Mobile: 1777
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