Living abroad with Pakistani roots? NADRA issues two cards for people like you, and they are easy to mix up. This guide explains NICOP vs POC: who each card is for, what rights it gives, and how to decide which one you need.
The Short Answer
- NICOP is for people who are still Pakistani citizens but live abroad.
- POC is for people who are not Pakistani citizens but have Pakistani roots, such as people who gave up their Pakistani citizenship.
The big difference is citizenship. Everything else, including voting and passport rights, follows from that.
What Is a NICOP?
NICOP stands for National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis. It is issued to Pakistani citizens living abroad, whether for a short time or for good, and to people who plan to emigrate. A NICOP holder is still a Pakistani citizen under the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951. The main difference from a CNIC is where you live.
A NICOP holder can enter Pakistan without a visa, own property, open bank accounts, and register to vote. Pakistan also allows dual nationality with some countries. FAFEN’s explainer says there are 22 such countries, so a NICOP holder may hold a second nationality from one of them.
What Is a POC?
POC stands for Pakistan Origin Card. NADRA issues it to foreign nationals of Pakistani origin. Guides say people who can apply include:
- Former Pakistani citizens who gave up their citizenship
- Foreign spouses of Pakistani citizens or NICOP holders
- Children, and in some cases descendants, of eligible people, if they can prove their link
A POC holder is not a Pakistani citizen. Benefits include visa-free entry, long-term stay, the right to open bank accounts, and the right to buy and sell property with some conditions. A POC holder cannot vote and does not have the full rights of a citizen. Guides also say a POC does not give a Pakistani passport, and that citizens of India and Israel cannot get one.
NICOP vs POC: Side-by-Side
| Feature | NICOP | POC |
|---|---|---|
| Who it is for | Pakistani citizens living abroad, including dual nationals | Foreign nationals of Pakistani origin, ex-citizens, and foreign spouses |
| Pakistani citizen? | Yes | No |
| Visa-free entry | Yes | Yes |
| Property | Yes | Yes, with conditions. Some guides say agricultural land can be restricted. |
| Bank account | Yes | Yes |
| Voting | Yes | No |
| Pakistani passport | Eligible | No |
| Can apply from abroad | Yes | Yes |
Guides do not agree on every detail. For example, some say POC property rights are “full”, and others say they are limited. Check the current rules with NADRA or a lawyer before you buy property.
Can You Have Both?
No. Guides say you cannot hold both cards. Also, NICOP holders cannot apply for a POC, because a NICOP is for people who are still citizens, while a POC is for people who are not.
Which Card Do You Need?
| Your Situation | Card |
|---|---|
| You are a Pakistani citizen living abroad | NICOP |
| You hold dual nationality with a country that Pakistan allows | NICOP |
| You gave up your Pakistani citizenship | POC |
| You are a foreign spouse of a Pakistani citizen or NICOP holder | POC |
| You are a foreign national with Pakistani roots and you want to prove your link | POC, if you meet NADRA’s rules |
What About Working in Pakistan?
NICOP holders are citizens, so they can work. For POC holders, guides disagree. One says a foreign national may need a work visa or permit for formal jobs, and another says POC holders can work. Ask NADRA or the immigration authorities before you plan to take a job.
How to Apply
Both cards are issued by NADRA. You can apply online through the PakID app or the Pak Identity portal, or through a NADRA centre or a Pakistani mission abroad. Fingerprints and a photo may still need to be taken in person. See our guide on how to apply for a NICOP online for the steps, and check NADRA for the documents and fees for a POC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between NICOP and POC?
NICOP is for Pakistani citizens living abroad. POC is for people who are not Pakistani citizens but have Pakistani origin.
Can a POC holder vote in Pakistan?
No. Only citizens can vote, and NICOP holders are citizens.
Do both cards allow visa-free entry?
Yes. Both NICOP and POC holders can enter Pakistan without a visa.
Can I get a Pakistani passport with a POC?
No. Guides say a POC does not give you a Pakistani passport.
I have dual nationality. Which card do I need?
If Pakistan allows dual nationality with your second country, you should apply for a NICOP, not a POC.
The right card depends on one question: are you still a Pakistani citizen? If yes, get a NICOP. If not, but you have Pakistani roots or a Pakistani spouse, look at the POC. Confirm the latest rules with NADRA before you apply.
