Islamabad: In a bid to enhance the security and reliability of citizen identification, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced a significant policy revision concerning the printing of signatures on Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). The updated policy, effective immediately, addresses the issues of misuse associated with thumb impressions that were previously printed on CNICs when applicants were unable to provide a signature.

According to the official notice dated June 23, 2026, NADRA observed several instances where the printed thumb impressions on CNICs were misappropriated. As part of the new policy, the abbreviation "N/A" (not applicable) will now be printed in the signature field for applicants who are unable to provide a signature. This change aims to mitigate the risk of misuse and improve the integrity of the identification process.

According to information available from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has been requested to disseminate this updated policy information among its regulated entities, which encompass companies, insurance companies, non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), securities brokers, capital market intermediaries, and other licensed entities. This ensures that CNICs bearing "N/A" in the signature field are appropriately recognized and accepted wherever applicable.

NADRA has assured that its teams are available to provide further clarification regarding the new policy. This move is a part of NADRA's ongoing commitment to secure and reliable citizen registration and identification in Pakistan.