The National Database and Registration Authority has warned institutions that refuse to accept digital identity cards, stating that digital identity cards carry the same legal status as physical identity cards.
In a statement issued by NADRA, the authority said that some government offices and institutions are demanding physical identity cards or photocopies instead of accepting digital identity cards, which is contrary to the existing legal and regulatory framework.
According to the authority, digital identity regulations have been formulated under the NADRA Ordinance, while Regulations 9 and 10 grant legal status to digital identity credentials. These regulations recognize digital identity documents as valid proof of identity.
NADRA stated that the use of digital identity cards reduces the need for unnecessary photocopies of identity cards, which helps ensure the protection of citizens’ personal data and prevents the misuse of identity information.
The authority has directed government departments, public institutions, financial organizations, and telecom operators to ensure compliance with the instructions regarding digital identity cards.
NADRA also advised citizens that if any institution refuses to accept a digital identity card, they can register their complaints through NADRA’s official complaint management system.
