Losing your NADRA card (NICOP – National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) can be a stressful experience, especially if you rely on it for identification, travel, or legal matters. Your NICOP serves as proof of Pakistani citizenship, allowing visa-free travel to Pakistan and access to various services. If you’ve lost your NADRA card in the UK, it is important to take immediate steps to replace it to avoid any potential issues.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to replace your lost NADRA card in the UK, including how to apply for a duplicate, the required documents, processing times, and how to prevent similar issues in the future. We will also discuss how this situation may affect other processes, such as the renewal of Pakistani passport in the UK, and how Nadra Solutions can help simplify your application.

Why is Your NADRA Card Important?

Your NADRA NICOP card is an essential document that serves multiple purposes for Pakistani nationals living abroad. If you lose it, you may face various complications, including:

• Travel Disruptions: NICOP allows Pakistani citizens in the UK to travel to Pakistan without a visa. Without it, you may experience delays or require additional documentation, especially if your Pakistani passport is also expired, in which case you may need to apply for a renewal of Pakistani passport in UK before traveling.
• Legal and Banking Issues: A valid NICOP is often required for opening bank accounts, property transactions, and inheritance matters in Pakistan.
• Proof of Pakistani Citizenship: The NICOP confirms your Pakistani nationality and identity, making it necessary for official matters.
• Immigration and Residency Requirements: Some UK visa or residency applications may require a valid NICOP as part of the supporting documentation.

Given its importance, it is crucial to replace a lost NADRA card as soon as possible to avoid complications with travel, legal matters, and processes such as the renewal of Pakistani passport in UK.

Immediate Steps to Take After Losing Your NADRA Card

As soon as you realize your NADRA card is missing, take the following actions to prevent misuse and begin the replacement process:

Report the Loss

While reporting a lost NICOP to local authorities is not mandatory, it is a good idea to file a police report, especially if your card was stolen. This report can serve as evidence in case of identity theft.

Check Your Travel Plans

If you have upcoming travel to Pakistan, check if you have another form of Pakistani identification, such as a Pakistani passport. If your passport is also expired or missing, you may need to apply for a renewal of Pakistani passport in the UK along with your NADRA card replacement.

Start the Duplicate NICOP Application Process

Applying for a duplicate NADRA card is the next step, and you can do this either online or by visiting a NADRA office in the UK.

How to Apply for a Duplicate NADRA Card in the UK

You can apply for a duplicate NADRA card through one of the following methods:

Option 1: Apply Online via Nadra Solutions

One of the most convenient ways to replace your lost NICOP is by applying online through Nadra Solutions or the official Pak-Identity portal. Here’s how:

1. Visit the official website and create an account.
2. Select the ‘Duplicate NICOP’ option and complete the application form.
3. Upload the required documents (listed in the next section).
4. Make the payment using a debit or credit card.
5. Submit biometric verification through a postal kit or by visiting a verification center.
6. Track your application using the provided reference number.

Option 2: Visit a NADRA Office in the UK

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit a NADRA service center in cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham. Follow these steps:

1. Book an appointment (if required) or visit the nearest NADRA center.
2. Fill out the duplicate NICOP application form with your personal details.
3. Provide biometric verification (fingerprints, signatures, and photographs).
4. Submit the necessary documents to verify your identity.
5. Pay the applicable fee at the counter.
6. Receive a tracking number to monitor your application’s progress.

In-person applications can be faster for those who need urgent processing.

Required Documents for a Duplicate NADRA Card

To apply for a duplicate NADRA card, you must provide the following documents:

• Copy of lost NICOP (if available)
• Valid Pakistani passport (if applicable)
• UK residence permit or visa
• Proof of UK address (utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill)
• Birth certificate (if applying for a minor’s NICOP)
• Parent’s NICOP (if applying for a child)
• Police report (if applicable, in case of theft or identity fraud)

Ensure that all documents are clear and up to date to avoid delays in processing your application.

Processing Time and Fees for a Duplicate NADRA Card

The processing time for a duplicate NICOP varies based on the urgency of your application. You can choose from the following options:

• Normal Processing: Takes 30 to 40 days.
• Urgent Processing: Takes 15 to 20 days.
• Executive Processing: Takes 7 to 10 days.

The fees for a duplicate NADRA card depend on the processing speed:

• Normal Processing Fee: Around £55.
• Urgent Processing Fee: Approximately £95.
• Executive Processing Fee: Around £120.

Payments can be made via debit/credit card for online applications or in cash at NADRA offices.

How Losing Your NADRA Card Affects Passport Renewal

If your Pakistani passport is also lost or expired, you will need to renew it before traveling. The renewal of a Pakistani passport in the UK requires a valid NICOP or Pakistani CNIC.

If your NADRA card is missing, you may face complications when renewing your passport. In such cases, you should:

1. Apply for a duplicate NADRA card first.
2. Use any alternate Pakistani ID (if available) to proceed with passport renewal.
3. Explain your situation at the Pakistani Consulate or High Commission.

Applying for both a NADRA NICOP and a passport renewal simultaneously may cause delays, so plan accordingly.

How to Prevent Losing Your NADRA Card Again

To avoid the hassle of replacing a lost NADRA card, consider the following precautions:

• Store your NICOP in a safe place when not in use.
• Keep a photocopy or scanned version of your NICOP for reference.
• Use a protective wallet or case to prevent damage or misplacement.
• Link your NICOP details with your email or a secure digital storage service.
• Set reminders for renewal dates to avoid last-minute applications.

By taking these steps, you can minimize the risk of losing your NADRA card in the future.

Conclusion

Losing your NADRA NICOP card in the UK can be a stressful situation, but by acting quickly, you can replace it without major issues. Whether you choose to apply online via Nadra Solutions or visit a NADRA service center, the process is straightforward as long as you have the necessary documents.

If your Pakistani passport is also lost or expired, you may need to apply for a NICOP replacement first before proceeding with the renewal of Pakistani passport in the UK.

To prevent future inconvenience, always keep your NICOP in a safe place and store a digital copy for reference. With the right approach, you can replace your lost NADRA card efficiently and continue using it for identification, travel, and legal purposes.