Pakistan launches first digital national ID card in digitization push

Pakistan has unveiled its first digital national identity card system, allowing citizens to carry digital versions of their ID cards on their mobile phones instead of physical cards.

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has developed the system, called the Dematerialized Digital Identity Card, which is now available through the agency's Pak ID mobile application, according to a NADRA spokesperson.

"Citizens will now be able to scan their ID card with a QR code, and a copy will be received by the other party," the spokesperson told Nukta. "The digital ID includes additional security features that will make personal data safer."

The digital ID cards will be stored as PDF files within the Pak ID digital wallet and can be used for government services, banking transactions, property purchases, and other activities that previously required physical ID cards or photocopies.

This initiative is part of the World Bank-funded Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP). Financial experts say international financial institutions are supporting the project to increase economic transparency in Pakistan by reducing tax evasion, financial fraud, and undocumented transactions.

Pilot project to launch August 14

NADRA announced the system during its Silver Jubilee celebration on March 10, marking 25 years of the agency's work in identity management and database services. Both Pakistan's President and Prime Minister sent congratulatory messages acknowledging NADRA's accomplishments.

A pilot project for the fully digital identity system is scheduled to be launched on August 14, 2025.

The ceremony included the unveiling of a commemorative coin issued by the State Bank of Pakistan and a special postage stamp from Pakistan Post to mark the occasion.

The digital ID initiative follows the January 2025 approval of the Digital Nation Bill by Pakistan's National Assembly. The legislation, presented by Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, establishes an 18-member National Digital Commission chaired by the Prime Minister to implement a comprehensive digital transformation plan across all levels of government.