The Pakistani government, in collaboration with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), has launched a stringent campaign to block millions of mobile SIM cards linked to expired, cancelled, or deceased citizens’ identity cards. This initiative, aimed at enhancing national security and curbing the misuse of mobile networks, has already begun affecting millions of users across the country. If your SIM card is registered under an expired or invalid ID, you could lose access to your mobile services as early as September 2025. But don’t worry—there’s a simple solution to keep your SIM active. Read on to understand the situation, the deadlines, and how to protect your mobile connection.
Why Are SIM Cards Being Blocked?
The government’s crackdown is part of a broader effort to ensure that all active SIM cards are linked to valid and up-to-date Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). According to NADRA, over 4.9 million SIM cards are registered under expired, cancelled, or deceased individuals’ IDs, posing a significant risk for fraudulent activities, including cybercrime and terrorism. To address this, the Interior Ministry has directed the PTA to block these SIMs in phases, targeting IDs that have not been renewed or belong to deceased individuals. This move builds on earlier efforts, such as the 2015 anti-terror drive that required biometric re-verification of SIMs, and aims to strengthen identity security across Pakistan’s telecom network.
Key Deadlines for SIM Card Blocking
The blocking process is being rolled out in phases, with specific cut-off dates based on when your CNIC expired. According to NADRA’s recent announcement, SIMs registered to identity cards that expired in 2017 were blocked on June 30, 2025. For those with IDs that expired in 2018, the deadline is fast approaching: July 31, 2025. Subsequent years will follow a similar timeline, with the process expected to continue until all non-compliant SIMs are deactivated. The exact schedule for later years has not been fully disclosed, but NADRA has emphasized that the crackdown will intensify, potentially affecting millions more by September 2025 if users do not act promptly.
How to Check If Your SIM Is at Risk
To avoid losing your mobile connection, you must verify whether your SIM is registered under a valid CNIC. Here’s how you can check:
- Contact Your Telecom Provider: Reach out to your mobile network operator (e.g., Jazz, Telenor, Zong, or Ufone) via their helpline or visit a service center to confirm the CNIC linked to your SIM.
- Use the PTA SIM Information System: Visit the PTA’s official website or send your CNIC number (without dashes) to 668 via SMS to check how many SIMs are registered under your ID. This service will also indicate if your SIM is linked to an expired or invalid CNIC.
- Check Your CNIC Status: Log in to NADRA’s online portal or the Pak ID app to verify if your ID card is active or expired.
If your SIM is linked to an expired or cancelled CNIC, you must take immediate action to avoid disconnection.
The Solution: Renew Your CNIC with Pak ID App
The good news is that NADRA has made it easier than ever to renew your CNIC without visiting a NADRA office. The Pak ID mobile app allows you to update your identity card quickly and conveniently from your smartphone. Here’s how to do it:
- Download the Pak ID App: Available on both iOS and Android, the app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Create an Account: Register with your existing CNIC number and follow the prompts to verify your identity.
- Apply for Renewal: Submit a request to renew your expired CNIC. You’ll need to upload a recent photograph and provide biometric verification (fingerprint or facial recognition) through the app.
- Choose Your Service Type:
- Normal Service: Costs approximately PKR 750, with delivery in about 15–30 days.
- Urgent Service: Costs around PKR 1,500, with delivery in 7–10 days.
- Executive Service: Costs PKR 2,500–3,000, with delivery in 6–7 days for those needing faster processing.
- Track Your Application: Once approved, your new CNIC will be delivered to your registered address, and your SIM will remain active.
By renewing your CNIC through the Pak ID app, you can avoid the hassle of visiting a NADRA office and ensure compliance with the government’s regulations.
What Happens If You Don’t Act?
If you fail to renew your CNIC before the specified deadline, your SIM card will be blocked, cutting off access to calls, messages, and mobile data. This could disrupt your daily communication, online banking, and access to essential services like mobile apps for payments or government services. Additionally, once a SIM is blocked, it may not be reissued for at least 90 days, and you’ll need to go through a lengthy reactivation process with your telecom provider. To avoid this inconvenience, act now to update your CNIC and secure your mobile connection.
Additional Steps to Stay Compliant
Beyond renewing your CNIC, here are some tips to ensure your SIM remains active and compliant with the new regulations:
- Limit SIMs per CNIC: NADRA and PTA regulations allow a maximum of five active SIMs per CNIC for individual users. If you have more, contact your telecom provider to deactivate unused numbers.
- Report Lost or Stolen SIMs: If your SIM is lost or stolen, report it immediately to your telecom provider to prevent misuse and ensure it’s blocked promptly.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from NADRA and PTA through their official websites, social media, or the Pak ID app to stay aware of any new deadlines or requirements.
Why This Matters
This crackdown is more than just a regulatory update—it’s a critical step toward enhancing Pakistan’s digital security. By linking SIM cards to valid CNICs, the government aims to reduce cybercrime, prevent identity theft, and improve the traceability of mobile communications for law enforcement purposes. Similar initiatives have been implemented in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and India, where mandatory SIM registration has helped curb fraud and improve national security. However, the success of this program depends on public cooperation, so don’t delay in taking action.
Act Now to Protect Your Connection
The clock is ticking. With deadlines looming as early as July 31, 2025, for 2018-expired CNICs and further blocks planned for September 2025, now is the time to act. Download the Pak ID app today, renew your CNIC, and ensure your SIM card remains active. Share this information with your family and friends to help them avoid disruptions. If you prefer in-person assistance, visit your nearest NADRA office, but be prepared for longer wait times. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your mobile services running smoothly and stay compliant with Pakistan’s new security regulations.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—renew your CNIC now and keep your connection alive!