Traveling with an expired NICOP can lead to several issues when planning a visit to Pakistan. The National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) is a crucial document that allows Pakistani citizens living abroad to enter Pakistan without requiring a visa. However, when this card expires, concerns arise about its validity for travel and entry into Pakistan. This article will explore the challenges of traveling with an expired NICOP and what steps you can take to ensure a smooth journey.
Before addressing the travel requirements for an expired NICOP, it’s important to understand what this card covers. The NICOP is a biometric identity card. This card has been designed specifically for foreigners and allows them to return to Pakistan without a visa by confirming their citizenship. The NICOP is more than simply a travel document. It is frequently used as evidence of identification for a variety of tasks. Furthermore, it is valid for ten years after which it must be renewed. The NICOP makes travel easier for people. However, this benefit becomes uncertain after the NICOP expires.
Can you Travel with Expired NICOP?
One of the often asked issues among expats is whether they can enter Pakistan if their NICOP has expired. According to the standard criteria, an expired NICOP is no longer regarded as a valid document for travel to or from Pakistan. The NICOP must be valid for visa-free entrance into the country. As a result, if your NICOP has expired, airlines and immigration officials may refuse to let you board a flight or enter Pakistan without difficulties. Airlines are strict in accepting just proper travel papers. When you submit an expired NICOP when you need to travel, many airlines will not allow you to board the plane. This is because an expired NICOP does not meet their requirements for valid travel documents. There is an alternative way which you can use. If your NICOP has expired but you still have a valid Pakistani passport, you can travel legally. A valid passport allows you to travel without a visa. If you no longer hold a valid NICOP, you may apply for a visa. For urgent travel, there are choices such as urgent or expedited visa services, which speed up the procedure. The Nadra Card Center provides an urgent service for issuing and renewing NICOPs. You can apply for an urgent NICOP renewal online via their site.
How to Renew?
Renewing your NICOP before flying will help you avoid several problems. The Nadra Card Center offers a shortened NICOP renewal process. NICOP renewals can be completed fully online using their website. You may complete the form, upload the necessary papers, and pay the renewal fee. After processing, the new NICOP will be mailed to your abroad address. They provide an urgent NICOP renewal service for customers who need their card completed fast. While this service costs more, it guarantees that your NICOP will be available within a few days. Renewing your NICOP online is a quick and easy choice, with urgent services available to expedite processing.
Conclusion:
While the NICOP is an important document for Pakistani foreigners, it must be valid in order to gain visa-free travel into Pakistan. Traveling with an expired NICOP can cause issues at both the airline and immigration levels, frequently resulting in rejected boarding or entry delays. Alternative possibilities include using a valid Pakistani passport, requesting for a visa, or renewing the NICOP through NADRA’s services. If you want to visit Pakistan and your NICOP has expired, it is strongly advised that you renew the card or consider other options. By following these measures, you can avoid possible complications and have a good travel experience.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the content is accurate and up to date, immigration and travel regulations are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend contacting the relevant authorities, such as the Pakistani consulate, NADRA, or your airline, to confirm current travel requirements and regulations regarding the NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis). The travel implications of having an expired NICOP can vary based on individual circumstances, so please seek professional advice if you are unsure of the specific steps to take.
Published by: Khy Talara