Getting married, divorced, or becoming a widow or widower all mean your CNIC record needs an update. NADRA does not update this automatically. This guide explains how to change marital status on CNIC, the documents you need for each case, and how to do it through the PakID app.
Why You Should Update Your Marital Status
- You need it to get a computerized marriage certificate.
- It is required to apply for a B-Form for your children.
- It keeps your family record accurate for passport, FRC, and other NADRA services.
- Many government and financial processes cross-check your marital status against NADRA’s record.
The Union Council registers your Nikah Nama, but updating your CNIC with NADRA is a separate step you must do yourself.
Documents Needed for Each Case
| Case | Required Document |
|---|---|
| Marriage | Nikah Nama or a government-issued marriage certificate. For a male applicant, this alone is usually enough. A female applicant may also need her husband’s CNIC copy or an affidavit countersigned by him. |
| Divorce | Divorce certificate or court order |
| Widow / Widower | Spouse’s death certificate |
| Re-marriage | Divorce certificate or spouse’s death certificate from the earlier marriage, plus the new marriage certificate |
Get your computerized marriage certificate from your relevant Union Council, Cantonment Board, or Municipal Committee first, if you don’t already have one.
How to Update Marital Status Through the PakID App
Step 1: Get Your Marriage, Divorce, or Death Certificate
Make sure you have the correct certificate for your case, as listed in the table above.
Step 2: Open the PakID App and Log In
Download PakID from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store if you don’t have it, and log in to your account.
Step 3: Go to CNIC Modification
From the main menu, select Identity Documents, then CNIC, and tap Modification.
Step 4: Select Marital Status Change
Choose the marital status field, and select whether you are updating to married, divorced, or widowed.
Step 5: Upload Your Supporting Document
Upload a clear copy of your Nikah Nama, divorce certificate, or death certificate, depending on your case.
Step 6: Complete Verification and Submit
The app may ask for biometric confirmation. Once done, pay the applicable fee and submit your application.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Your marital status update is processed as an unprintable alteration, so you usually don’t need a fresh physical card, but you can track the update status in the app.
Updating in Person at a NADRA Centre
If your biometrics are not on file, or the app cannot verify you, visit your nearest NADRA Registration Centre with:
- Your original CNIC
- The relevant certificate (marriage, divorce, or death certificate)
- Your spouse’s CNIC copy, if applicable
Fee for Marital Status Update
Updating marital status is categorized as an unprintable alteration and is charged a small fee, around Rs. 100 for Pakistani nationals within the country. Overseas Pakistanis applying through a consulate may pay a different fee, plus any delivery charges, so confirm current rates before applying.
Marital Status for Overseas Pakistanis
Overseas Pakistanis can update their marital status through the PakID app or at their nearest Pakistani consulate. If applying at a consulate, book an appointment in advance, bring the required certificates and affidavits, and note that consulates generally accept card payments only, not cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does NADRA automatically update my marital status after marriage?
No. The Union Council registers your Nikah Nama, but you must separately update your CNIC record with NADRA.
What documents do I need to update my status to married?
A Nikah Nama or government-issued marriage certificate. Female applicants may also need their husband’s CNIC copy or a countersigned affidavit.
What if my spouse passed away?
You need your spouse’s death certificate to update your status to widow or widower.
Can I update my marital status without visiting a NADRA centre?
Yes, in most cases, if your biometrics are already on file, you can complete it through the PakID app.
How much does it cost to update marital status?
It is a small fee, generally around Rs. 100 within Pakistan, since it counts as an unprintable alteration rather than a new card.
Updating your marital status on your CNIC is a quick process once you have the right certificate ready. Whether you use the PakID app or visit a NADRA centre, keeping this record accurate saves you trouble later with other government services.
