NADRA Introduces Facial Recognition System to Simplify Biometric Verification
KARACHI: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched a facial recognition-based biometric verification system to assist citizens who experience difficulties with fingerprint verification, particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions.
According to a NADRA spokesperson, this initiative follows directives from the Prime Minister and Interior Minister, aimed at improving identity verification procedures. Recent amendments to the National Identity Card rules now formally include facial recognition under the legal definition of biometric verification.
NADRA is fully prepared to implement the system and has urged both government and private institutions to make necessary arrangements to recognize facial recognition as a valid verification method. “The service has already been integrated into the Pak-Identity mobile application,” the spokesperson said. “Once Pakistan’s Digital ID system is officially launched, facial recognition verification will be available directly through the app.”
Starting January 20, all NADRA registration centers nationwide will issue biometric verification certificates using facial recognition. Under the new procedure, citizens whose fingerprint verification fails will be directed to the nearest registration center for facial recognition.
Upon completion, NADRA will issue a biometric verification certificate, which will include the individual’s photograph, National Identity Card number, name, father’s name, a unique tracking ID, and a QR code. The certificate will be valid for seven days and can be obtained for a nominal fee.
NADRA has advised citizens experiencing difficulties with the service to file complaints with the relevant institution or department.
