The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is an essential registration document for Pakistani citizens who live abroad or hold dual nationality with countries that have an agreement with Pakistan. Issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), NICOP allows dual nationals to maintain their ties with Pakistan while living abroad.
Purpose of NICOP
The NICOP serves as an official identity document for overseas Pakistanis, allowing them to:
- Travel to Pakistan without a visa if they hold dual nationality.
- Access various services in Pakistan, such as voting, property transactions, and other civic duties.
The NICOP is particularly crucial for those who live outside Pakistan but want to retain their Pakistani nationality and rights.
Required Documents and Application Process
To apply for a NICOP, the applicant must provide certain documents, including a valid passport number. NADRA will verify these documents before processing the NICOP.
You can apply for your NICOP through one of two convenient methods:
- Visit NADRA Registration Centers (NRCs) across Pakistan.
- Apply online through the Pak-Identity website.
NICOP Fee Structure for Germany
NADRA has divided countries into two zones (A and B) for NICOP fee purposes, with different fees for each zone. Since Germany falls under Zone A, the fee structure is as follows:
In Pakistani Rupees (PKR):
- Normal Fee: Rs. 11,340
- Urgent Fee: Rs. 16,589
- Executive Fee: Rs. 21,820
In US Dollars (USD):
If applying for NICOP online, the fee in US dollars is as follows:
- Normal Fee: $39
- Urgent Fee: $57
- Executive Fee: $75
Why Apply for NICOP?
For Pakistanis living abroad, obtaining a NICOP is vital not only for ease of travel to Pakistan but also for accessing various government services. It also helps overseas Pakistanis maintain their rights as citizens of Pakistan while benefiting from the privileges granted to them by their country of residence under dual nationality agreements.
Conclusion
The NICOP offers significant benefits for overseas Pakistanis, especially those with dual nationality. Whether you choose to apply online or visit a NADRA Registration Center, ensuring that you pay the correct fee for your region is essential for timely processing. Be sure to have all required documents ready and submit your application through the appropriate channels to avoid delays.
