CNIC Tracking: NADRA Tracking ID Check by SMS 8400 & Pak ID App (2026)
Quick answer
Send your NADRA tracking ID (printed on your receipt or shown in the Pak ID app) by SMS to 8400 to get your CNIC status. You can also open the application inside the Pak ID app or call NADRA on 1777. If the status says "ready", collect your card from the same centre or wait for the courier.
Table of contents
- Where to find your NADRA tracking ID
- Method 1: CNIC tracking by SMS to 8400
- Method 2: Track status in the Pak ID app
- Method 3: Call the NADRA helpline
- What does each CNIC tracking status mean?
- Why is my CNIC application delayed?
- How to collect your CNIC when it is ready
- How long does CNIC processing usually take?
- Tracking other NADRA documents
- Tracking not updating? Related NADRA guides
- Related NADRA guides
- Urdu mein khulasa
- Frequently asked questions
After you apply for a new CNIC, a renewal, a B-Form or any other NADRA document, you receive a tracking ID. With this number you can check exactly where your application is — whether it is still being processed, has been printed, or is ready for delivery. This guide explains every way to do CNIC tracking and a NADRA tracking ID check, and what the different status messages mean.
Where to find your NADRA tracking ID
- Office applications: the tracking ID is printed on the receipt / token slip you receive after paying the fee at the NADRA Registration Centre.
- Pak ID app applications: the tracking number appears on the confirmation screen and in the My Applications (or similar) section of the app. It is also sent by SMS/email.
Tip: Take a photo of your receipt as soon as you get it. Many people lose the slip before the card arrives, and without the tracking ID the SMS method will not work.
Method 1: CNIC tracking by SMS to 8400
This is the quickest method and works from any Pakistani mobile network.
- Open the messages app on your phone.
- Type your tracking ID exactly as printed, without spaces or dashes.
- Send it to 8400.
- You will receive a reply with the current status of your application. Standard SMS charges apply.
Method 2: Track status in the Pak ID app
If you applied through the app, you do not need the SMS code at all. Log in to Pak ID (or the web portal at id.nadra.gov.pk), open your submitted application and the current stage is shown on screen. The app also notifies you when the card is dispatched or when an issue (such as a rejected photo) needs your attention.
Method 3: Call the NADRA helpline
Call 1777 from a mobile phone or 051-111-786-100 from a landline. Keep your CNIC number and tracking ID ready. Use this method if your application has been stuck at the same stage for a long time or if you received a rejection message you do not understand.
What does each CNIC tracking status mean?
The exact wording can vary, but most messages fall into one of these stages:
| Status | Meaning | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| Under process / In process | Your data and biometrics are being verified. | Wait. This is the longest stage. |
| Objection / Pending / Discrepancy | NADRA found an issue (photo, data mismatch, family tree). | Check the app or call 1777; you may need to visit an NRC. |
| Printed / Card in production | Your application is approved and the card is being printed. | Delivery or collection is close. |
| Dispatched | The card has been sent to the centre or courier. | Keep your phone on for the courier call. |
| Ready for collection / Delivered | The card is available at the NRC or has been delivered. | Collect it with your receipt and old card. |
Why is my CNIC application delayed?
- Family tree issues: if your parents' or spouse's records do not match NADRA data, your application is held for verification.
- Biometric problems: unclear fingerprints or a rejected photo send the application back.
- Normal category during peak times: school admission and exam seasons increase demand.
- Incomplete address: couriers return cards they cannot deliver.
How to collect your CNIC when it is ready
If you applied at a NADRA Registration Centre, you will get an SMS when the card is ready. Take the following with you:
- The original receipt / token slip with the tracking ID
- Your old CNIC (for renewal or modification) — NADRA may keep or punch it
- Be present in person: fingerprints are verified before the card is handed over
For applications through the Pak ID app, the card is delivered by courier to the address you entered. Keep your phone on, as the courier usually calls before delivery. If you are not home, the parcel may be returned, and you would then need to contact the helpline to arrange collection.
How long does CNIC processing usually take?
| Category | Typical processing time |
|---|---|
| Normal | About 30 days |
| Urgent | About 15–23 days |
| Executive | About 9–10 days |
These timelines start after verification is complete. If your status has not changed for longer than the time shown above, that is the moment to call the helpline rather than waiting further. Fees for each category are listed in our CNIC renewal guide.
Tracking other NADRA documents
The same tracking ID method works for the B-Form (CRC), the Family Registration Certificate, NICOP and POC applications. For a NICOP applied from abroad, the Pak ID app is the easiest way to follow progress.
Beware of fake tracking websites. Some websites ask you to enter your CNIC number to "check status". They are not connected to NADRA and may misuse your data. Use only SMS 8400, the Pak ID app or the NADRA helpline.
Tracking not updating? Related NADRA guides
- NADRA helpline number — if SMS 8400 shows no update for weeks, call 1777 (mobile) or 051-111-786-100 with your tracking ID.
- NADRA office timing — to collect your card or fix an issue in person, check centre hours before you go.
- NICOP guide — overseas Pakistanis can track NICOP the same way with their tracking ID.
Related NADRA guides
- CNIC address change online — track an address modification with the same tracking ID.
- Lost CNIC duplicate — apply for a replacement card if yours is lost or damaged.
Urdu mein khulasa
NADRA tracking ke liye apni receipt par likha tracking ID bina space ke 8400 par SMS karein. Agar Pak ID app se apply kiya tha to app mein application khol kar status dekh lein. Masla ho to helpline 1777 par call karein. "Ready for collection" ka matlab hai card NADRA office mein tayyar hai — receipt le kar jayein.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check my CNIC status with a tracking ID?
Can I track my CNIC without a tracking ID?
Is SMS 8400 free?
My status has shown "under process" for weeks. What should I do?
Accuracy note: Fees and procedures in this guide were checked on 27 September 2026. Government departments can change rules without notice — always confirm on the official portal before paying. Found something outdated? Tell us and we will correct it.
Written & reviewed by Faisal
Faisal writes practical guides on NADRA, passport, FBR and PTA procedures. Every guide is checked against the official government portal and updated when fees or rules change.