Pakistan removes NADRA life certificate requirement for pensioners

Authorities in Pakistan have announced that pensioners are no longer required to submit a physical NADRA life certificate to receive monthly pension disbursements directly into their bank accounts. This measure aims to reduce administrative hurdles and physical strain on elderly citizens who previously faced delays or confusion at bank branches.

Under the streamlined protocol, pensioners can complete bi-annual verification through electronic biometric devices at bank branches, mobile banking applications, or designated e-Sahulat centers. For elderly or infirm individuals unable to provide biometric matches, banks are authorized to accept official life certificates issued by local union council chairpersons or gazetted officers of Grade-17 or above.

Financial institutions have been directed to adhere to State Bank of Pakistan and Ministry of Finance guidelines, ensuring that banks do not mandate a separate NADRA-issued physical certificate as a prerequisite for automated pension credits. The initiative is part of a broader effort to digitize the Direct Credit Scheme (DCS) and simplify government services for senior citizens.