Applying for a New NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) in the UK
Living as a Pakistani citizen in the UK brings many opportunities, but maintaining essential identification documents can sometimes feel like a hurdle. Fear not! Getting a new NICOP, namely the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis while in the United Kingdom, is not a complicated issue as long as one has the right information. This blog post will avail of you with all the necessary information that will help you when applying for NICOP.
The NICOP serves as your official Pakistani identity card while living abroad. It allows you to:
- Travel to Pakistan without requiring a visa.
- Open bank accounts and access other financial services in Pakistan.
- Register property or vehicles in Pakistan.
- Serve as proof of your Pakistani citizenship and identity for various purposes
Here’s a quick tip: If you already hold a valid Pakistani passport, you can still benefit from a NICOP. It offers a convenient secondary form of identification and simplifies specific tasks within Pakistan.
Eligibility for a New NICOP in the UK
To be eligible for a new NICOP in the UK, you must be:
- A Pakistani citizen.
- Residing legally in the UK with a valid visa or residence permit.
- At least 18 years old (exceptions apply for minors with parental consent).
Important Note: Children of Pakistani nationals born in the UK are also eligible to apply for a NICOP.
Getting NICOP for Newborns in the UK
Parents in the UK can get a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) for their newborn babies through NADRA Solutions. Yes, new babies can apply for NICOP in the UK. To do this, parents need to give some documents like the baby’s birth certificate and the parents’ ID cards to the Pakistani High Commission or consulate. NADRA Solutions helps make this process easy, allowing the baby to travel and use services in Pakistan.
Applying for Your NICOP from the UK
Online Application
- Visit the Nadra Solution website.
- Select “Pakistan Origin Card (POC)” as NICOP applications are dealt with under this class.
- Register for a new online account or log in if you already have one.
- Fill out the online application form correctly: all the provided information must be relevant and correct.
- Scan and upload the documents which are highlighted below as the Required Documents to support the application.
- Submit the online application fee.
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Original Pakistani passport or valid Pakistani ID card
- Copy of your UK visa or residence permit
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of your overseas address (utility bill, bank statement etc.)
Processing Time and Fees for a New NICOP Application
- Fast Service: £165, processed in 7-10 working days.
- Urgent Service: £135, processed in 3-4 working weeks.
- Slow Service: £99, processed in 6 working weeks.
Making it Easier Consider Using a Nadra Solutions
While applying online through the Nadra Solutions Center is achievable, navigating unfamiliar procedures can be time-consuming. This is the reason why NADRA Solutions UK can come in handy. We can help you with:
- Completing the application form correctly
- Making sure all documents are in order
- Scheduling appointments (if applicable)
- Tracking the progress of your application
- Being available to help with any questions or concerns one may have.
Using a service provider can save you time, reduce the risk of errors, and offer peace of mind throughout the application process.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a new NICOP from the UK doesn’t have to be difficult. You may guarantee a seamless and fruitful application process by adhering to the above-described procedures and taking into account the benefits of working with a service provider. As a Pakistani citizen living in the UK, having your NICOP will make life easier for you. It is a convenient form of identification.