Pakistan has unveiled its first dematerialized digital identity card, marking a significant advancement in the country’s digital transformation journey. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) introduced the innovative system during celebrations commemorating its 25th year of operation.

Citizens will soon be able to store their identity credentials on their smartphones through integration with the Pak ID mobile application. Alongside this digital ID, authorities are developing a verification system designed to provide secure and immediate authentication for a range of services.

The initiative will enter its pilot phase on Independence Day 2025, implemented under the Digital Economy Project backed by the World Bank.

Top officials gathered at NADRA headquarters for a ceremony marking the announcement, including the organization’s founding Chairman, Major General (Retd.) Zahid Ehsan. Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi described the development as a landmark achievement in identity management during his address.

The quarter-century milestone for NADRA was further commemorated through several special tributes. The State Bank of Pakistan released a commemorative coin, while Pakistan Post issued a special postage stamp honoring the occasion. Attendees also viewed a documentary showcasing NADRA’s accomplishments over its 25-year history.

During the event, officials highlighted NADRA’s contributions to extending identity services to remote regions and supporting law enforcement agencies. The authority also took the opportunity to encourage citizens to cancel identification cards belonging to deceased family members to help maintain accurate national records.