In today’s digital age, the Government of Pakistan has made it easy to manage official documents through your smartphone. One of the most important documents for any Pakistani citizen is the Family Registration Certificate (FRC).
Whether you need it for a visa application, school admissions, or legal property matters, you no longer need to stand in long queues at NADRA offices. You can now do it all via the PAK ID App. Here is a guide to getting your FRC in 2026.
What is an FRC and Why Do You Need It?
An FRC is a document issued by NADRA that validates your family composition. Unlike a “B-Form” (which is for minors), the FRC is a real-time record of your family tree. It comes in three main types:
- By Birth: Shows you with your parents and siblings.
- By Marriage: Shows you with your spouse and children.
- By Adoption: Shows details of a family with an adopted child.
What You Need Before Starting
Before you open the app, ensure you have the following ready:
- A Smartphone: With a functional camera (required for biometrics).
- The PAK ID App: Available on Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- CNIC Numbers: You will need the 13-digit CNIC numbers of all family members you wish to include.
- Payment Method: A Debit/Credit card (Visa/Mastercard) or an active Easypaisa/JazzCash account.
- White Background: For taking a fresh photograph.\

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying For FRC via PAK ID App
1. Registration and Login
First, download the app and create an account. You will need to provide your email and mobile number. NADRA will send an OTP (One-Time Password) to both. Once verified, set a strong password and log in.
2. Start a New Application
Once on the dashboard:
- Click on “Apply Now”.
- Select the category “Issuance of Documents”.
- Under document type, choose “Family Registration Certificate (FRC)”.
3. Choose Your FRC Category
This is a critical step. If you want to show your parents, select “By Birth”. If you are married and want to show your own family, select “By Marriage”.
4. Adding Family Members
Enter the CNIC numbers of your family members one by one. The app will fetch their records from the NADRA database.
- Tip: If a family member is deceased, ensure their CNIC has been officially cancelled at a NADRA office first, or they may not appear correctly.
5. Capture Biometrics (Fingerprints)
This is where the app shines. You don’t need a scanner. The app will guide you to place your hand in front of your phone’s camera.
- Keep your fingers steady.
- Ensure there is plenty of light (natural sunlight is best).
- The app will automatically “scan” and capture your prints once they are in focus.
6. Photograph and Documents
Take a selfie against a plain white background. Avoid wearing glasses, hats, or masks. Usually, if all members have CNICs, no extra documents are needed. However, for “By Marriage,” you might be asked to upload a digital copy of your Nikahnama if your marriage isn’t already updated in the system.
7. Fee Payment
As of 2026, the standard fee for an FRC is PKR 1,000.
- Select your payment method.
- Enter your card details or use your mobile wallet.
- Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email.
Processing Time and Delivery
The beauty of the online process is the speed. While an NRC (NADRA Center) gives it to you instantly, the app process is almost as fast:
- Processing Time: Usually 24 to 48 hours.
- Delivery: You won’t get a physical paper in the mail. Instead, a high-quality PDF version will be sent to your registered email and will appear in your “ID Vault” within the app.
- Validity: You can print this PDF on any printer. It contains a QR code that authorities can scan to verify its authenticity, making it legally valid everywhere.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poor Lighting: Trying to take fingerprints in a dark room is the #1 reason for application rejection.
- Wrong Category: Choosing “By Birth” when you meant “By Marriage” cannot be undone once the fee is paid; you would have to start a new application.
- Incomplete Records: If a sibling’s name or data is missing from NADRA’s main database, they won’t show up. They may need to update their own CNIC first.
Using the PAK ID App is a massive time-saver. It eliminates the need for travel and waiting rooms. By following the steps above, you can have your official family tree in your inbox within a day.


