In a first, Pakistan introduces fingerprint-enabled B-forms for children over 10

For the first time in Pakistan's history, biometric B-forms featuring fingerprints and photographs will be mandatory for children over the age of 10, according to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

This reform, starting January 15, is part of the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework aimed at enhancing security and curbing misuse of children’s identity information.

Parents or legal guardians must now obtain a B-form for children aged 10 to 18 before applying for a passport. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports will cross-verify the child’s biometric data with NADRA’s database during the application process.

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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the initiative, saying it will prevent crimes such as identity theft, issuance of illegal passports, and human trafficking. “I congratulate NADRA and the passport department for swiftly implementing these vital reforms,” Naqvi said.

Key requirements

• Children aged 10–18 must have fingerprints and photographs taken at NADRA centers.
• Parents or guardians must bring their computerized national identity card (CNIC) and the child’s computerized birth certificate.
• The new biometric B-form will replace older versions without photographs or fingerprints.

NADRA and the passport department believe these measures will significantly reduce the risk of misuse of identity information.

The federal cabinet recently approved the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework, under which user data will be linked to the chip embedded in identity cards.

Future reforms in identification

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior confirmed that further reforms will follow. These include:

• IRIS scans and digital IDs for all Pakistani citizens.
• Enhanced service provisions on NADRA’s Pak ID mobile app.
• Integration of NADRA’s identification system with provincial Civil Registration Management Systems.

In the initial rollout, children must visit NADRA centers accompanied by their parents or guardians. The system is expected to streamline passport applications and prevent security risks associated with forged identities.

By introducing these biometric (B) forms, the country aims to modernize its identification processes and protect its younger population from potential crimes.

What is the policy framework

On December 17, 2024, the federal cabinet approved the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework, under its one nation, one identity slogan.

Under this framework, a comprehensive and unique ID will be prepared for every Pakistani. Every Pakistani’s record, including marriage, court cases, police records, and property will now be in one place.

Records of passports, immunizations, health centers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, etc. will also be linked to NADRA, and a procedure will be developed for regular use of the chip placed on the identity card. Data from NADRA, the Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR), the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and the State Bank of Pakistan will be available on a central database.

Many problems arise due to the absence of certified records at the union council level. This lack of proper documentation has also resulted in foreigners being registered in NADRA records. Additionally, the biometric facility has become a significant source of fraud. The updated record system will introduce a unified form for health and education, which will aid in data management. This new policy is expected to assist governments in decision-making and resource allocation.